African Energy Access Studies (Interdisciplinary - | 27 January 2000
School-Based Maternal Mortality Programmes in Ghanaian Secondary Schools: An Analytical Overview
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Abstract
School-based maternal mortality reduction programmes have been implemented in various settings to address adolescent reproductive health issues. In Ghanaian secondary schools, these initiatives aim to educate and empower students about menstrual hygiene management (MHM) and sexual education. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to gather data from students and teachers in selected secondary schools across Ghana. Data were analysed using statistical software to evaluate programme efficacy over a five-year period. The findings indicate that there is an improvement in student knowledge about MHM practices (75% increase) and sexual health education (60% increase). These improvements are statistically significant at the p < 0.01 level, with confidence intervals for these proportions being [62%, 78%] and [55%, 64%], respectively. The school-based maternal mortality reduction programmes in Ghanaian secondary schools have shown promising outcomes in enhancing MHM knowledge among students compared to baseline levels. However, further research is needed to address persistent gaps in sexual health education. Given the positive results, it is recommended that these programmes be scaled up and integrated into existing curricula across all secondary schools in Ghana. Additionally, ongoing support from educators and community partners should be maintained to ensure long-term impact. Maternal Mortality Reduction Programmes, School-based Education, Adolescent Reproductive Health, Confidence Intervals The empirical specification follows $Y=\beta_0+\beta^\top X+\varepsilon$, and inference is reported with uncertainty-aware statistical criteria.