Knowledge and Attitude of Secondary School Students Towards Reproductive Health Education in Ibadan, Oyo State

This study examined the knowledge and attitude of secondary school students towards reproductive health education in Ibadan, Oyo State, South West Nigeria. Adolescent reproductive health remains a critical public health concern, with rising rates of teenage pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections among young Nigerians. Despite several government and non-governmental interventions, gaps in accurate knowledge persist among school-aged populations. A descriptive survey design was adopted, targeting students in public senior secondary schools within the Ibadan North Local Government Area. A structured, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample of 350 students selected through stratified random sampling. Data analysis was conducted using frequency tables, percentages, and chi-square statistical tests. Results revealed that while a majority of respondents were aware of basic reproductive health concepts, attitudinal barriers, peer pressure, and cultural taboos significantly limited open engagement with reproductive health services. Only 38 percent of respondents reported receiving reproductive health information from school-based sources, with most relying on peers and social media. The study recommended that school health education curricula be updated to incorporate evidence-based, youth-friendly reproductive health content. Stakeholders including parents, teachers, and school counsellors should be trained to facilitate open, non-judgmental discussions. Findings from this study contribute to the existing body of knowledge on adolescent health promotion in urban South West Nigeria. Keywords: reproductive health, adolescents, secondary school students, health education, Ibadan