Sexuality education is essential for adolescents’ and young people’s health, well-being, and rights. While recognised in policies worldwide, gaps remain in its implementation. This review explores youth perspectives on school-based sexuality education in low- and middle-income countries to understand their needs, experiences, and preferences.

A scoping review was conducted across five academic databases and key stakeholder websites, identifying 66 relevant studies published between 2013 and 2024. The review found strong support for school-based sexuality education but noted that many programmes fail to meet adolescents’ and young people’s needs. Current curricula often emphasise biology and risks, including early and unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, while neglecting emotional, physical, and social aspects of sexuality. Teaching approaches are frequently not fullyinclusive, and marginalised groups, such as adolescent girls, youth with disabilities and LGBTIQ+ youth, face additional barriers. Many young people want more interactive and engaging teaching methods.

The review also highlighted a lack of research on how learners perceive the appropriateness and inclusivity of sexuality education content and delivery. Certain groups, including younger adolescents, youth with diverse identities, and those in rural areas, remain underrepresented in studies, particularly in some geographic regions. More inclusive, youth-participatory research is needed to inform policies and programmes that better reflect the needs and realities of all adolescents and young people.