Exploring Innovative Teaching Approaches to Adolescents’ Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Oluno Circuit, Oshana Region of Namibia

Abstract

Access to youth-friendly services is critical to ensuring Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) and the psychological well-being of adolescents. This qualitative study explored the innovative teaching approaches to adolescents’ sexual and reproductive health and rights education during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Oluno circuit. A sample of 10 Life Skills teachers was purposively selected and individual face to face interviews were conducted. Data was analysed using a thematic approach. The findings revealed that the radio, WhatsApp, recorded audios and handouts were used to engage learners on sexual reproductive health information when schools were closed. It is further established that WhatsApp and the radio were the mainly used methods because they were appropriate and user friendly. The findings also indicate contradictions in the Life Skills teachers’ experiences on the use of social media approaches due to poor internet connectivity in remote areas. The study suggested the provision of free data to learners and teachers to enable the timely teaching and learning of the right and age-appropriate Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights information (SRHR).That underscores the urgent need for schools to adopt modern learning to be proactive in training of both teachers and learners on the use of various technological devices in case another pandemic hits the country in the future.