Government backs family health curriculum as teachers’ union warns of ideology

Latvia’s government has called for stronger history and music education, a new family values and health literacy module, and a review of school programmes, LSM reported. The Latvian Trade Union of Education and Science Employees (LIZDA) has raised concerns about ideological content in the planned family health lessons.

The Education and Science Ministry presented its plans on Tuesday, saying school curricula should be reviewed regularly. It plans to establish expert councils to assess educational content.

The family values and health literacy module is due to be developed by April 30, 2027. Updated history, social studies and music programmes are to be introduced gradually from September 1, 2027. The ministry will also assess whether history should become a separate subject in grades 4 to 6 and a separate course in vocational secondary education.

The ministry said it would provide teachers with training and other support. It also plans to make state-developed model programmes mandatory in basic education, while allowing schools to use their own programmes if they cover all the required content and learning outcomes.

Prime Minister Evika Siliņa supports family health education if it helps strengthen families and increase the birth rate. LIZDA objects to the proposed lessons, citing ideological concerns. The prime minister and ministers have also spoken about children being overloaded with homework.