Perceptions of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights among Students at a Higher Learning Institution in Rwanda

Higher Learning Institution (HLI) students face many risks, including unintended pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections, and unsafe abortions, due to limited knowledge of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), and while this issue is documented in low- and middle-income countries, evidence from Rwanda remains scarce. This study explored the experiences and perceptions of SRHR among undergraduate students at a HLI in Rwanda.

The study conducted in February 2023 used a qualitative exploratory approach was employed, involving in-depth interviews with 10 purposively selected students, one male and one female from each of the five colleges who had participated in a prior quantitative study. The interviews, conducted in Kinyarwanda, were transcribed verbatim, translated into English, and analysed thematically.

Four major themes emerged: 1) Acceptance of premarital sexual intercourse among youth, 2) Contraceptive awareness, myths, and method preferences, 3) Sources of SRHR information, and 4) Divergent views on abortion. The study found limited access to accurate SRHR information, persistent contraceptive myths, and stigma affecting contraceptive use.

There are gaps in SRHR among HLI students in Rwanda. They have limited understanding of contraceptive methods and side effects, misconceptions shaped by sociocultural norms, restricted access to reliable SRHR information sources, and uncertainty surrounding sexual rights, premarital sexual practices, and abortion. We recommend creating safe, non-judgmental environments where students can seek SRHR information, increasing awareness about long-acting contraceptive methods, and improving condom availability on campuses. Addressing these gaps is critical to promote informed, safe, and responsible SRHR decision-making among HLI students in Rwanda.