Key Social Norms Take-aways This study highlights how entrenched traditional gender norms at Ethiopian universities contribute to both gender-based violence (GBV) and risky sexual behaviors. Norms that associate women’s worth with submissiveness, modesty, and virginity—and that blame women for violence if they deviate from these ideals—create a campus climate where GBV is normalized and victims are stigmatized. These norms also limit women’s ability to negotiate safe sex, especially in contexts involving alcohol, transactional sex, or multiple partners. Addressing these intersecting issues through norm-shifting interventions is essential for creating safer university environments for female students.
Objectives The study aimed to explore university students’ and faculty/staff’s perceptions of gender norms, GBV, and sexual risk behaviors in Ethiopia, with a specific focus on understanding how these issues intersect and identifying points of intervention for campus-based programs.
Methods A qualitative study design was used, involving 70 in-depth interviews (IDIs) with students and 56 participants in focus group discussions (FGDs) with both students and faculty across two Ethiopian universities. Interviews were conducted by trained local researchers in private settings using open-ended questions. Data were transcribed, translated into English, and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis framework with ATLAS.ti software.
Results The study identified three key thematic areas: (1) Traditional gender norms that associate female students’ dress and behavior with their likelihood of experiencing violence; (2) Risky sexual behaviors, including unprotected sex, substance use, and transactional sex, which are normalized within campus life but exacerbate women’s vulnerability; and (3) Limited and stigmatized access to student health services, with widespread concern about privacy and judgment when seeking sexual and reproductive health support. Female students reported pressure to conform to traditional femininity, stigma for carrying condoms, and power imbalances in sexual relationships—especially when influenced by alcohol or economic dependency.
Conclusions The study underscores the need for university-based interventions that directly address harmful gender norms, improve student health services, and raise awareness of the risks tied to GBV and sexual behavior. Programs should include orientation sessions on gender equality, confidential and youth-friendly health services, mental health support, and capacity-building for faculty and health providers to challenge internalized norms.