At the time of study, South Africa had the highest HIV/Aids prevalence in Africa, with young HIV-positive females posing a significant risk of transmission due to insufficient precautions. The combination of early unplanned pregnancies and HIV transmission was exacerbated by inadequate sex education for female teenagers. To address this, many nations had adopted comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) programmes. South Africa’s CSE curriculum aimed to delay sexual debut, reduce risky behaviours and increase contraceptive and sexual health knowledge.

This study evaluated the impact of school-based sex education on preventing teenage pregnancies and STI transmission. The results indicated schools as the primary source of sex education, but concerns arose regarding curriculum quality and teacher discomfort. Early pregnancies stemmed from peer pressure, lack of sexual health education and poverty.

The study underscored the urgency for enhanced sex education quality, advocating for detailed information and teacher training. Cultural barriers hindered open dialogue, necessitating the involvement of healthcare professionals and fostering teacher-learner rapport.