Inquiry Info Point 20: Equality Wheel Adapted from: The Domestic Abuse Intervention Project There are many global examples of best practice that Samoa can draw upon. However, it is important that the process of developing curriculum content is driven by national stakeholders and takes particular regard of the Samoa context, as highlighted by MWCSD in their recent study: “The school curriculum programme should be developed by MESC, MWCSD and other stakeholders, take human rights based approach and be underpinned by Christian and Samoan values.” Samoa Family Safety Study, 2017, Inquiry document 46 There will likely be opposition to suggestions of universal sexual education and healthy relationships in a society which often views these topics as taboo. The Inquiry has found that this reluctance plays a significant part in maintaining the veil of silence which allows family violence to continue and thrive. Regardless, debate on such an important topic is not only healthy but necessary and in the process of developing the curriculum all stakeholders should be invited to contribute to the discussion and crucially should involve children themselves. A recent Samoa Planet poll appears to suggest popular opinion is turning with 81% believing that condoms and information leaflets should be made freely and widely

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