• Nirere Yvette
• Prof. Germaine Tuyisenge
• Dr. Michael Habtu, MPH, PhD

Abstract: Background: The study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding sexual and reproductive health (SRH) among secondary school students in Kicukiro District, Rwanda. Specifically, it sought to determine the level of SRH knowledge, identify attitudes towards SRH, and evaluate SRH-related practices among these students. Using a cross-sectional survey design, the study targeted students from semi-rural and semi-urban schools in the district. Stratified random sampling was used to select 423 respondents from a population of 2,170 students. Methods and Materials: Data were collected through questionnaires with both open and closed-ended questions, supplemented by documentary review. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, were used for data analysis. The findings indicated high levels of SRH knowledge among students, with strong awareness of puberty, menstruation, contraceptive methods, and HIV transmission routes. However, there were still misconceptions about condom effectiveness and HIV transmission, highlighting the need for targeted education. Attitudes towards SRH varied, with positive acceptance of discussing condom use and contraceptive methods but differing views on premarital relationships and abortion. Proactive practices such as contraceptive use and seeking STI check-ups were noted, but areas needing improvement included delaying sexual debut and consistent contraceptive use. Results: The study found a strong positive correlation between SRH knowledge and practices (Pearson correlation coefficient = 0.864, p < 0.01), suggesting that students with greater SRH knowledge tend to engage in more positive SRH practices. Additionally, a moderate to strong positive correlation was observed between SRH attitudes and practices (Pearson correlation coefficient = 0.581, p < 0.01), indicating that students with more positive SRH attitudes are more likely to engage in favorable practices. Both knowledge and attitudes significantly predicted SRH practices among the students. The regression model showed a moderate correlation (R = 0.652, R Square = 0.426) between attitudes, knowledge, and practices, explaining about 42.6% of the variance in SRH practices. The regression coefficients for knowledge (B = 0.315, p < 0.001) and attitudes (B = 0.374, p < 0.001) were both statistically significant predictors of SRH practices. Overall, the study concluded that while students generally had high SRH awareness, their attitudes and practices varied. The moderate to strong positive correlations between SRH knowledge, attitudes, and practices underscore the importance of comprehensive SRH education. Conclusion: The study recommended implementing extensive SRH education programs, addressing misconceptions, promoting positive attitudes, ensuring access to youth-friendly SRH services, and involving parents and the community. It also suggested further research to enhance understanding and promote positive SRH outcomes among secondary school students in Kicukiro District and beyond.

KAP, Sexual and Reproductive Health, Secondary School Students, Kicukiro District, Rwanda.

"Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices towards Sexual and Reproductive Health among Secondary School Students in Kicukiro District, Rwanda", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 11, page no.a136-a150, November-2024, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2411014.pdf

"Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices towards Sexual and Reproductive Health among Secondary School Students in Kicukiro District, Rwanda", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 11, page no. ppa136-a150, November-2024, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2411014.pdf