Pupil-related challenges to the implementation of comprehensive sexuality education in selected public schools in Samfya district, Zambia.
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Date
2021
Authors
Mwape, Joseph
Munsaka, Ecloss
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Development
Abstract
This study examined pupil-related challenges regarding the implementation of Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) in selected public schools in Samfya District of Zambia. The study employed qualitative case study research approach involving 27 participants who were purposively selected from three schools in the district. Data were collected using lesson observations, document analysis, semi-structured interviews and Focus Group Discussions (FGD). Data analysis was carried out using thematic analysis.
The results showed that CSE implementation faced a number of pupil-related challenges, which were mainly due to pupils’ inability to practice what they acquired in CSE programme. There was a variation between what they learnt and what they practiced. Pupils were also unable to apply the knowledge and skills acquired from CSE into real life situations. For example, the study revealed that pupils were timid to negotiate and plan for safer sexual encounters when they involved themselves in intimate sexual relationships. Furthermore, the study revealed that pupils were misusing some technologies such as mobile phones by exposing themselves to pornographic materials that consequently made them vulnerable to sexual abuses as well as unsafe sexual encounters. Negative peer pressure, alcohol abuse by pupils, failure to access and/or utilize family planning services and pupils’ involvement in intimate relationships were other pupil-related challenges.
The conclusion of this study, therefore, is that pupils’ inability to use the knowledge learnt and skills acquired from CSE activities into their day-to-day relationships due to various pupil-related challenges were impediments to CSE programme implementation in public schools in Samfya District. There is need, therefore, to involve pupils in the actual implementation so that whatever they learn becomes practical. Deliberate interactive lessons should be conducted on the implications of pupils abusing technology and alcohol.
Description
Comprehensive sexuality implementation evaluation
Keywords
Sexuality education.