Mudau, Tshimangadzo Selina.Sobekwa , Sinazo.2025-06-102025-06-1020232023https://hdl.handle.net/10413/23745Masters Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.Background: In the dynamic landscape of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) initiatives, understanding the extent and determinants of the involvement of male students’ sexual health issues is pivotal in promoting comprehensive and equitable SRH outcomes at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN). Male involvement in SRH is essential in preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unplanned pregnancies, and in promoting safer sexual practices. In contrast, deferring healthcare leads to morbidities and mortalities, which could mostly be avoided through seeking early primary healthcare and preventative health as diseases are not responsive to gender. Recognising that SRH encompasses physical wellbeing and broader societal and interpersonal dimensions, this study offers a comprehensive analysis of the factors influencing the involvement of male students in sexual and reproductive health at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Exploring the intricate web of socio-cultural, educational, and healthcare system factors, this study aims to provide insights into the challenges encountered by male students in the context of SRH. Research methodology: The qualitative, participatory action research approach was employed to explore and describe factors influencing the involvement of male students in sexual and reproductive health at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in South Africa. The objectives of the study were: to explore and describe factors affecting male students’ involvement in SRH at the UKZN and; to explore and describe strategies that will enhance male students’ involvement in SRH at UKZN. In total, 24 male student participants were conveniently and purposely sampled to share their views and opinions on factors influencing the involvement of male students in SRH at the university in question. regarding SRH services received at the UKZN campus health clinic. The data collection methods employed included semi-structured interviews, focus-group discussions (FGDs), and virtual meetings. The researcher collected data using an interview guide, an audio recorder, and taking field notes. The thematic analysis method was conducted to identify codes and themes emerging from the generated data. Findings revealed the students’ attitudes towards HIV tests, condom use, staff-related issues, stigma and stereotyping, attitudes towards SRH programmes and campaigns, infrastructural issues, and solutions to the identified challenges. Conclusion: Involving male students in SRH in campus health clinics at UKZN is marred by socio-hegemonic orientations related to masculinity-related roles, cultures, and male-friendly services, and it is necessary to delve into issues around stigmas and stereotypes. It is therefore important to enhance health promotional campaigns and reviving male-friendly programmes in comfortable environments that are not formal for male students' involvement. Recommendation: Topics on ways of breaking the gender stereotypes affecting young males and ways of enhancing male involvement in SRH matters have to be generated and explored. Nurses working in campus health clinics should be trained on Adolescent and Youth-Friendly-Services (AYFS). The necessity of developing policies that enhance interventions, strategies, and goals to close the gap of male SRH on the campus cannot be overemphasized.enSexual and reproductive health.Male students.Male involvement.Morbidities and mortalities.Thesis