Child Sexual Abuse in Schools: Preliminary Indication for Enhancement of Universal Primary Education and Community (EUPEC Project)—Uganda

Abstract

This study sought to access pupils' knowledge on their rights as children, establishing the common violations experienced with emphasis to understanding the forms of child sexual abuse acts in Ugandan primary schools. Quantitative data were collected from 30 schools covering 442 pupils (male= 223; female= 219) and 81 teachers (24=male and 57=female). A total of 30 pupils from 2 schools participated (males=15, females=15; age range=12 to 14) participated in the focus group discussion. In addition, teachers participated. Qualitative data were collected through focus group discussions. The study found that 53% of the teachers did not have specialized training on children's rights and responsibilities. Children were mistreated by parents or guardians including food deprivation, child labor and conscription into early marriage.