Exploring prevalence of risky sexual behavior among adolescents in selected high schools of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe: a...

Risky sexual behaviour (RSB) among adolescents in Zimbabwe is a major public health issue, contributing to high rates of HIV, STIs, and unintended pregnancies. Interventions have been ineffective, especially in urban areas like Bulawayo, where "Vuzu parties" worsen the situation. This study aims to assess the prevalence of RSB among high school students in Bulawayo, identify influencing factors, evaluate awareness of sexual health issues, and examine the accessibility and effectiveness of sexual health education from various stakeholders' perspectives.

The primary study is a school-based, convergent mixed-methods design that includes a quantitative cross-sectional survey and a qualitative key informant study, conducted concurrently. A preliminary systematic review will inform the study's framework and instrument development. The quantitative phase will survey 400 students, selected through stratified random sampling from five schools in Bulawayo, using a self-administered questionnaire. The qualitative phase will consist of in-depth interviews with 10-15 teachers and healthcare workers. Quantitative data will be analysed with descriptive statistics and chi-square tests in SPSS version 28, while qualitative data will undergo thematic analysis. A joint display table will integrate the findings to identify areas of convergence, divergence, and complementarity.

The study will provide comprehensive data on the prevalence and drivers of RSB in Bulawayo's adolescents. Findings will inform the development of targeted school-based interventions and policies aimed at reducing RSB and improving sexual health outcomes. The study findings will be reported back to the public and health officials through community meetings and workshops.