KICD apologizes for 3rd grade biology textbook that cites indecent clothing as a cause of sexual harassment

• KICD publicly apologized for publishing statements suggesting that indecent clothing triggered sexual assault
• The institution’s CEO, Charles Ong’ondo, expressed his deep regret and explained that the statements were overlooked during the initial evaluation phase of the book.
• Ong’ondo confirmed that the KICD had assembled a panel of experts within two weeks to examine the book in question

Nairobi: The Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) has apologised for publishing controversial content in its textbook “Certificate Biology for Form 3”.

What was misleading in the biology textbook?

In a press release that was seen TUKO.co.keKICD admitted an error in its textbook that suggested that indecent clothing was a reason for sexual assault.

KICD CEO Charles Ong’ondo said the institute appreciates public feedback on certain sentences in its textbook. The sentences in the textbook that drew criticism are as follows:

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“Modest dress code and behavior to avoid provoking or seducing other persons to sexual arousal. Many cases of rape are due to such provocations. One should also avoid being alone with a person of the opposite sex in remote areas to avoid losing control. Date rape is even more common than rape by complete strangers. Girls should be especially careful not to mix their drinks with drugs or alcohol as this will make them lose control of their senses,” the statement said.

Ong’ondo expressed his deep regret over the published statements and pointed out that they had gone unnoticed during the initial evaluation phase of the book.

“KICD therefore wishes to apologise to readers who found the quoted sentences in the Certificate Biology for Form 3 book misleading and who did not realise this during the assessment in 2005,” he added.

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He stressed that it is not the institution’s intention to justify the exploitation of women under any circumstances, even if it advises female students to dress modestly.

To prevent future incidents, Ong’ondo explained that the KICD has set up a panel of experts that will examine the book in question in two weeks.

KICD then advises the publisher on the necessary revisions to avoid future misinterpretations of the book’s content.

“After the review, schools will also be informed about how they can guide students on the topic in question.”

Kissing, foreplay is not consensual

Previously, a South African Court of Appeal had issued a ruling that clarified several things related to sexual consent.

In a landmark ruling, the court stressed that kissing does not equate to consent to sexual intercourse and reiterated that “no” means “no”.

The court emphasized that consent, even if initially given for a specific sexual act, can be withdrawn during the act itself.

Proofreading by Asher Omondi, news journalist and editor at TUKO.co.ke.

Source: TUKO.co.ke