Experiences Of Youth In Accessing And Using Digital Platforms To Access SRH Information
The rapid increase in the number of Internet users is largely driven by the increase in accessibility of smartphones, Internet infrastructure, and social media websites. The Internet has become a primary source of information for the youth which is also true in the case of Ethiopia. However, there is no data that shows how much impact does access to the Internet has in informing Ethiopian adolescents and young people regarding sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). Hence, the study set out to assess the overall experience of Ethiopian youth in using digital platforms to access information about sexual and reproductive health(SRH) and Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The study, in addition, assesses the contributing factors (positive or negative) of using digital platforms.
The study used online survey data from four Ethiopian cities — Addis Ababa, Hawassa, Gonder, and Jimma. The survey target age group was 15 to 24 years old. Among the participants youth with disabilities were included. The data were statistically analyzed using SPSS to discover related factors. In addition to the online survey, qualitative data were collected from informants who have expertise and experience in similar community issues. The researchers have reached out to organizations that work on SRHR and GBV. Experts from the organizations have provided insights regarding the type of digital platforms they use, the content they provide, and the challenges they encounter with relaying the information.
The study explores the various dimensions of the issue. It started by investigating the level of digital literacy among the study respondents as well as their preferred digital platforms. This exploration was needed since it provides insight into the data and data organization methods consumed by Ethiopian youth. The insight was helpful in discovering effective ways of reaching the youth regarding SRH/GBV issues and what content format should be used.
Next, the research investigates the participants’ interest regarding SRH/GBV. It explores what resources they use, what issues they research about, and what they want to know more about. This section of the exploration provided an insight into how much Ethiopian youth explore SRH/GBV issues, and what type of questions are prominent with this demographic group. The survey also explores participants’ non-digital source of information regarding SRH/GBV.
The study also gives a special emphasis on Ethiopian youth with disabilities. The survey extracts data about the experiences of disabled youth with regard to digital platforms and exposure to important information about SRH/GBV issues.
From the survey and qualitative data, the study identified important problem areas that can be significantly helpful for policymakers and other initiatives. It also proposed practical recommendations including effective ways of organizing and delivering information, youth engagement methods, and integration of non-digital resources to digital platforms.
The details of the research can be found here.