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Most young people learn about sex from their friends as opposed to their families, according to a survey released.
"The fact that parents are not engaging with their children on sex education is of great concern," International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) director general Tewodros Melesse said.
"Young people need responsible and reliable sources of such information to be properly educated."
How the survey was done
The survey was conducted among 16 to 24-year olds, and 25 to 34-year olds, to differentiate between the two generations. A total of 7662 people took part.
It found that 38% of youth had friends as the primary source of information about sex. 19% learnt about sex through television and other media, 18% through school, 14% through the internet, and only 4% through their families.
"We really need families to teach young people about sex, sexual health and responsible behaviour. Not speaking about it within the family actually increases the risks rather than preventing them," Melesse said.
The survey found that 12% of youth first had sex under the age of 14, 22% between the ages of 14 and 16, and 37% after the age of 16.
(Sapa, November 2012)
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