ASSESSMENT OF SEX EDUCATION CAMPAIGN ON SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES (STDS) AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN MAIDUGURI METROPOLITAN COUNCIL, BORNO STATE, NIGERIA
Abstract
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) remain a major public health concern among adolescents, particularly in developing countries where access to accurate sexual health information is limited. This study assessed the effectiveness of sex education campaigns on the knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices related to sexually transmitted diseases among secondary school students in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Borno State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was adopted, involving selected public and private secondary schools within the study area. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire that examined students’ socio-demographic characteristics, level of awareness of sex education campaigns, knowledge of STDs, attitudes towards STD prevention, and perceived challenges affecting the effectiveness of sex education programs. Descriptive statistical methods, including frequencies and percentages, were used to analyze the data. Findings from the study revealed varying levels of awareness and knowledge of STDs among students, with sex education campaigns contributing positively to improved understanding and attitudes toward safe sexual practices. However, challenges such as cultural barriers, inadequate teaching materials, and limited parental and community support were identified as factors reducing the overall effectiveness of the campaigns. The study concludes that while sex education campaigns play a significant role in enhancing adolescents’ knowledge and attitudes towards STD prevention, strengthening program content, delivery methods, and stakeholder involvement is necessary. Recommendations include the integration of comprehensive sex education into school curricula, regular training of teachers, and increased collaboration between schools, health authorities, and community leaders to improve the effectiveness of STD prevention efforts among secondary school students.
Full-Text Access Notice
In accordance with the NERD Policy on promoting peer-reviewed publication, public access to the full text of a project, thesis or dissertation is restricted for three years, allowing the author and supervisors sufficient time to pursue peer-reviewed publication.
During this period, researchers with legitimate academic or research purposes may request authorisation directly from the author to enable NERD to release the indexed full texts of the work using the form below.