Multisectoral approaches to early pregnancy prevention in colleges in Togo

The goal of this program is to generate knowledge about the early pregnancy phenomenon through operational research, and to develop multisectoral strategies focusing on teens, in conjunction with stakeholders in the education, health and legal systems, and in the community.

Pregnancy prevention among teens in schools is a major concern for the states and institutions involved in reproductive health in West Africa. In Togo, 17% of girls aged 15 to 19 have already given birth, and these early pregnancies have many adverse effects on the teens, their families, and their communities.

This project will reinforce stakeholders' skills and help them to implement effective strategies for the multisectoral fight against early pregnancies in Togo.

In addition to scientific publications, this research is expected to result in the identification of relevant factors in the following issues: the perception of teenage pregnancy; behaviours and practices related to teen sexuality; demand for and provision of reproductive and sexual health services to teens; and the mobilization/commitment of the State, nongovernmental organizations, and community and religious leaders in preventing teenage pregnancies. More importantly, multisectoral experiences that have led to significant changes in combating teenage pregnancy will also be identified.

This is one of nine projects in a cohort of research projects focusing on two regions (West Africa and the Middle East) and addressing two thematic issues (adolescent sexual and reproductive health and health information systems).

The project is closely aligned with Canada's new Feminist International Assistance Policy, the strategic priorities outlined in the WHO's Global Strategy for Women's, Children's and Adolescents' Health (2016–2030), and the global 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.