Protecting in-School Adolescents from HIV/AIDS, STIs and Unwanted Pregnancy: Evidence-based Lessons for Programs and Policy

Abstract

With the high level of HIV infection and poor sexual and reproductive health outcomes among young people in sub-Saharan Africa, it is crucial to understand the determinants of sexual activity among the youth in order to inform policies and programs that protect them. Research conducted in secondary schools in Nairobi, Kenya, shows that about half of boys and a tenth of girls have already initiated sexual activity. This research also shows that religiosity, perceived parental attitudes towards sex, living arrangements and school characteristics are associated with adolescents’ initiation of sexual activity