University-Based Approaches to Gender-Based Violence Prevention in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Higher Education Studies
• Gender Studies

Background:

• Gender-based violence (GBV) is a significant issue in higher education globally.
• A critical gap exists in understanding effective GBV prevention strategies within low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
• Existing research has not sufficiently synthesized interventions tailored for LMIC higher education contexts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and synthesize the existing evidence on GBV prevention interventions in higher education institutions within LMICs.
• To map the scope and nature of current GBV prevention strategies in LMIC higher education.
• To highlight gaps and inform future research and interventions.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review was conducted following Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines.
• Reporting followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) extension for scoping reviews.
• Four databases were searched for relevant manuscripts published between 2017 and 2023.

Main Results:

• Fourteen manuscripts detailing ten distinct interventions were identified across LMICs, primarily in sub-Saharan Africa and East Asia.
• Interventions focused on primary and secondary prevention, including education on gender inequality, consent, healthy relationships, and bystander behavior.
• Consistent findings indicated improvements in knowledge, attitudes, and bystander self-efficacy, with most studies piloting or developing interventions.

Conclusions:

• Current GBV prevention interventions in LMIC higher education are evolving but lack evidence on long-term efficacy and comprehensive survivor support.
• There is a need for culturally grounded, sustainable interventions.
• Future research should prioritize rigorous evaluation of long-term impact and the development of tertiary prevention strategies.