Struggle to enhance the knowledge of school going adolescents on Reproductive/Sexual Health & Rights.

Background: Pakistan is 6th biggest country in the world has a huge population bulge in the young age group (54% under the age of 24, according to census). Culturally, it is a traditional society where sex, reproduction are taken synonymously with marriage and discussion on such issues is considered taboo. Among new infections, adolescents & youths are most vulnerable.

Method: Classroom intervention of RSHR program has been implemented for 9-10 class students who are around 15-16 years old. The components includes reproductive health, sex & sexuality, gender and rights of equality and legal issues like marriage age, 48 schools from Bahawalpur (Southern Region of Punjab, Pakistan) were chosen for the intervention. SHRO forms were prepared and used before & after the class room intervention and analysed through excel program to find out the changes in their knowledge level in respect to RSHR, fertilization, family planning, sex and sexuality.

Results/Conclusion: A remarkable change has been observed in their knowledge and awareness level increased from 31% to 89%. Tehsil wise base line difference of knowledge level has been noted. One of the reasons of the success is the teachers training program prior to class room intervention. The proper teaching and learning materials have also played contribution to this success.