Gender Based Violence Status In Public Secondary School Of Ambo Town, Ethiopia

Abstract

This research aimed to assess the prevalence, types, main factors and impacts of gender based violence (GBV) among female students in two public secondary schools in Ambo, Ethiopia. The mixed study surveyed 150 female students using a questionnaire to collect quantitative data. In order to collect qualitative data, focus groups discussion (FGD), key informant interviews (KII), and personal observations were used. The data were analyze using SPSS v26 windows software. The findings show high rates of students witnessing and personally experiencing verbal, physical, and sexual violence. Abuse was associated with emotional, behavioral, academic and social consequences. Students emphasized need for improved awareness, preventive education, staff training, community engagement, and accountability to address the crisis. Initial results highlight the urgent need for evidence based reforms fostering safe, equitable school environments for girls. Further research should assess impacts of interventions. Ultimately, reducing gender-based violence requires policy and cultural change across institutions and society.