Implementing sex education to prevent sexually transmitted infections among Technical Vocational Education students

Abstract

Technical-vocational education (TVE) students often face a significant gap in access to comprehensive sexual education, leaving them vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This doctoral thesis project proposes addressing this critical need by developing and validating a novel sex education strategy specifically tailored to the TVE context. The current STI prevention efforts for TVE students are deemed inadequate, prompting the investigation of alternative, context-specific approaches. This project proposes an educational strategy grounded in comprehensive sex education principles, aiming to bridge the knowledge gap and empower TVE students to make informed and healthy choices regarding their sexual health. The strategy's focus on integrating sex education into the existing TVE framework makes it both innovative and viable. By employing context-relevant examples and fostering open communication, the proposed approach seeks to strengthen STI prevention, promote comprehensive education, reduce STIs in TVE students and contribute to a decline in STI prevalence within this vulnerable population group. While currently in the design phase, this project lays a robust conceptual and methodological foundation. The conclusions emphasize the urgent need for innovative sex education interventions within the TVE environment to improve students' sexual health outcomes and overall well-being.