Assessment of Sexual Risk Behaviours and Sexual Health Knowledge among Young Adults in Middle-Level Colleges: A Case of Thogoto Teachers College, Kiambu Kenya

Abstract

Risky sexual behaviours (RSBs) among young adults in middle-level colleges remain a public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, driving high rates of HIV, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and unintended pregnancies. Despite Kenya’s progressive sexual health policies, transitional institutions such as teacher training colleges remain understudied. This mixed-methods study assessed the prevalence, patterns, and predictors of RSBs among 243 students aged 18–25 at Thogoto Teachers College, Kiambu County. Guided by the theory of planned behaviour, social learning theory, and health belief model, the study combined a quantitative survey with ordinal regression analysis and qualitative interviews, which were analysed thematically. Findings revealed that 61.7% of respondents engaged in at least one RSB, with inconsistent condom use (48.1%) and multiple sexual partnerships (32.3%) being the most common. Male gender, off-campus residence, alcohol consumption, and lower socio-economic status significantly predicted RSB engagement (p<0.05). Despite moderate-to-high sexual health knowledge, a substantial gap persisted between knowledge and behaviour, influenced by low self-efficacy, peer norms, and limited youth-friendly health services. The study concluded that RSBs are shaped by individual, social, and structural factors, highlighting the inadequacy of knowledge-focused interventions alone. It recommends multi-level interventions, including comprehensive sexuality education, peer mentorship, gender-sensitive programmes, and strengthened campus health policies to reduce RSBs in similar institutional settings.