METHODOLOGY

This study will use a mixed methods design that consists of policy review, survey, Focused Group Discussions (FGDs), In Depth Interviews (IDIs) and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs). The qualitative study will explore the findings of the quantitative findings.

The study will focus on South West Nigeria where the culture is largely homogenous. The study sites will be the oldest federal universities which were founded at about the same time (between the end of the 1940s and the beginning of the 1960s) – the University of Ibadan (UI), the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), and the University of Lagos (UNILAG).

The target population for this study are staff and students of the selected universities.

The research protocol will be submitted for ethical review and approval to the Health Research Ethics Committees of the Institute of Public Health, Obafemi Awolowo University; College of Medicine, University of Ibadan and College of Medicine, University of Lagos. Written consent will be taken from the participants. Confidentiality will be ensured and psychological therapy will be offered to participants who exhibit or report distress.

As part of this research plan, all co investigators and research assistants will be trained on SH response and prevention.  Acquisition of experience, advanced research skills and potential collaboration sources in the field of SH research by all members of the research team.

Presentation of policy briefs to the universities on the state of their SH policies and what (if anything) they need to revise to abide by international best standards.

Presentation of research findings at regional and international conferences.

Manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals.