Title : Policy analysis: To strengthen the sexual and reproductive health education rights of adolescents and youths in Ethiopia
Abstract:
Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) is crucial for empowering young people with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health. In Ethiopia, where over 60% of the population is under 25, CSE is vital to addressing significant public health and social challenges. The Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey (EDHS) 2016 highlights pressing issues: 13% of young women aged 15-19 have begun childbearing, with an adolescent birth rate of 80 per 1,000 women. Additionally, 40% of new HIV infections occur among those aged 15-24. These statistics underscore the urgent need for comprehensive, age-appropriate, and accurate sexuality education.
Over 60% of Ethiopia's population is under 24, yet cultural taboos, lack of coordination, and policy gaps limit their access to age-appropriate sexual health information, impeding their ability to make informed decisions about their bodies and relationships. Consequently, inadequate, SRHE contributes to poor sexual and reproductive health outcomes, such as HIV, STIs, and unintended pregnancies, violating Ethiopian youth's fundamental right to health. Ethiopia's international commitments to CSE, including agreements like the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), underscore the global recognition of its importance.
The policy brief offers strategic recommendations to address these challenges, emphasizing the need to integrate CSE into the national curriculum, engage communities, leverage technology, and advocate for sustained political commitment and funding. By prioritizing Sexual and Reproductive Health Education (SRHE) and involving diverse stakeholders, Ministry of health can addresses/strengthen the adolescent and youth’s health problems.
