Exploring the factors for engagement in Risky Sexual Behaviors (RSBs) among University Students at Makerere University, Kampala District

Abstract

The study aimed at establishing the barriers to effective sexual and reproductive health education among university students. The study adopted a qualitative study design which was thematic in nature with a population of 80 students. Purposive sampling technique was used to draw a sample of 63 participants from the population. Data was collected from the participants using open ended questions. Data was thematically analyzed by searching across a data set to identify, analyze, and report repeated patterns. The results indicated that majority of respondents were females (77.8%) than males (22.2%), and majority of respondents were of age group 18-24 (93.7%). Qualitative research findings indicate that peer pressure, poverty, limited parental guidance, drug abuse, high libido, desire to explore sexual matters, desire for better living standards, watching pornography urban excitement, low self-esteem, ignorance, interpersonal factors and sexual coercion are the major outstanding factors that make students engage in risky sexual behaviours. It was recommended that the management of Makerere University need to form policies that aim at supporting university students access guidance and counseling services. This may help students reduce on their engagement in risky sexual behaviours. Government needs to educate and sensitize both public and private institutions of higher learning about the relevance of students not engaging in risky sexual behaviours and dangers at different universities. The government should also encourage parents to participate in supporting their children not to engage in risky sexual behaviours through parental guidance.