Background: Gender-based violence (GBV) is a global public health challenge that affects people across cultures and socioeconomic classes. It comes in various forms, such as physical, sexual, psychological, and economic violence, as well as harmful traditional practices. These types of violence have serious consequences for women's well-being, including their physical, emotional, sexual, and reproductive health. Around 30% of women worldwide have experienced physical or sexual intimate partner violence. In Tanzania, 40% of women aged 15 to 49 have encountered physical abuse, and 20% have faced sexual abuse. This study focuses on understanding how university female students perceive GBV and its associated factors, aiming to raise awareness and develop strategies to address this pressing public health issue.
Objective: Was to determine perception and associated factors regarding gender based violence among female students at catholic university of health and allied sciences in Mwanza, Tanzania.
Methodology: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study which included 368 female students studying different courses at Catholic university of health and allied sciences (CUHAS), who were willing to participate. Data was collected by using Questionnaire and Data entry was done in excel and analysis using STATA VERSION 18.
Results: In this study, 368 female students were included. Most were aged 20-24 (64.4%), while the smallest group was over 30 years old (1.6%). various courses were pursued, with Doctor of Medicine being the most popular (34.8%). Year-wise distribution varied, ranging from 10.9% in year 5 to 26.4% in year 3. Regarding GBV around 33.2% agreed about availability of it, and 52.4% agreed with GBV towards females, while 4.45% agreed with GBV towards males. Community perceptions on GBV were divided. Many factors were associated with GBV, with percentages ranging from 66.0% (alcohol, tobacco, drugs) to 95.1% (low school performance and rural residence). Acceptance levels averaged 85.5%, denial at 9%, and 3.4% were unsure
Conclusion: The high level of agreement among female students at CUHAS regarding the association of these factors with GBV highlights the urgent need for comprehensive interventions that challenge and transform these underlying causes. Addressing gender-based violence requires collaborative efforts involving governments, civil society, educational institutions, and communities to challenge harmful beliefs, promote gender equality, and create environments that prioritize safety, respect, and dignity for all..