Sexual and Reproductive Health Education for Students with Visual Impairments: Addressing Gender-Specific Needs and Rights: A Case Study of the Open University of Tanzania

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This study examined the effectiveness of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) education for students with visual impairments at the Open University of Tanzania, aiming to assess current programs and identify critical areas for improvement. Utilising a qualitative research design, the study involved a total of 30 participants. Specifically, it explored the lived experiences of 22 students with visual impairments (10 males, 12 females) regarding their access to and understanding of SRH education, with a focus on gender-specific challenges, utilising in-depth interviews. Additionally, focus group discussions were conducted with 8 educators to assess institutional approaches, inclusion strategies, and curriculum gaps, complemented by a document analysis of SRH policies and materials. Findings revealed significant institutional and instructional gaps: SRH materials are overwhelmingly unavailable in accessible formats like Braille, tactile graphics, or screen-reader-compatible digital files, forcing students to rely on sighted peers for sensitive information. Furthermore, teaching methods fail to accommodate non-visual learners, and the curriculum largely overlooks gender-specific vulnerabilities, leaving female students particularly exposed to undisclosed reproductive health risks. The study provides evidence-based recommendations for policymakers and educators to implement universally designed curricula and accessible materials, ultimately safeguarding the SRH rights and well-being of students with visual impairments within Tanzanian higher education.