Organization: Uganda Christian University and Christian Deliverance Kiwanga
Background/Context:
Early and unintended pregnancy (EUP) remains a pressing concern with severe socioeconomic and health outcomes for adolescent girls aged 15–19 years, their offspring and society, (Choonara et al., 2024). The sexuality indicators in Uganda show negative trends, with rising levels of early unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, STIs, child abuse, and gender-based violence and sexual abuse. According to the Democratic and Health Surveys 2016, 25% of teenage girls are either pregnant or have already had their first child. Of the 28% girls who were sexually active while still at school, 80.1% became pregnant. Of this, 97% dropped out of school because of the pregnancy. By age 15, only 32% of young women and 38% of young men aged 15-24 had never had intercourse (CSE report Uganda, 2023). In 2016, the Parliament of the Republic of Uganda banned comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) in schools. The ban came after the discovery of sexual reproductive health (SRH) books in more than 100 schools that included coverage of sexual orientation and a non-negative portrayal of masturbation. In November 2021, the High Court in Kampala instructed the Education Ministry to develop and implement the CSE policy for school learners. However, the policy has remained controversial amidst the increasing rate of teenage pregnancy and with all its damaging effects to individuals, families and the country at large. There is anecdotal evidence showing that a number of parents have become concerned with the alarming rate of teenage pregnancy and have started calling out on schools to resume conducting sexuality education sessions as a parent elaborated in that “I think sex education must be accepted because even when we bury our heads reality is children have been getting this information on TVs and the internet”. Therefore, this study aims to explore the perceptions of Christian stakeholders on the appropriate sexuality education program that is well suited for the Christian community.
This project is funded by: A Meros Center small project grant thanks to donors like you
Research Question:
How appropriate is a Christian based sexuality program in shaping young people’s knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and social norms?
Study Aims:
- What perceptions do church stakeholders hold concerning the Christian sexuality education program?
- What are the perceptions of stakeholders about the role of parental religiosity and communication on adolescent sexuality?
- What are the best practices for an appropriate Christian based sexuality program?
Impact:
This study aims to illuminate nuanced perspectives, generate actionable insights, and foster community engagement. The data will from this study will be used to Informing Program Design, through active involvement of stakeholders in the research process, including educators, religious leaders, parents, and youth, the study will provide invaluable feedback for refining and tailoring the sexuality education program to meet the needs and values of the community. Insights gained will facilitate the development of culturally sensitive, evidence-based curriculum materials and teaching methodologies. Improving Program acceptance and buy in, By understanding the perceptions of program, the research will contribute to a deeper understanding of its potential impact on attitudes, behaviors, and knowledge among participants. This understanding can inform program modifications and implementation strategies to maximize efficacy and relevance, ultimately leading to improved outcomes in terms of sexual health, well-being, and relationships. Empowering Stakeholders: The participatory nature of the research empowers stakeholders to actively engage in the dialogue surrounding sexuality education within a Christian context. By valuing their perspectives and lived experiences, the study fosters a sense of ownership and agency among participants, enabling them to contribute to positive social change within their communities. Lastly the study will contribute to the growing body of literature on faith-based approaches to sexuality education and participatory research methodologies. By documenting best practices, challenges, and lessons learned, the research enriches the existing knowledge on the role of faith in shaping the sexual and reproductive health of young people locally and nationally.
Open Positions: (Fully staffed)
Timeline: December 2024 – November 2025
