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Article History

Received: 13 April 2025

Accepted: 6 January 2026

First Online: 23 January 2026

Declarations

:

: The study protocol, instruments and procedures were approved by Research Ethics Committee of South African Medical Research Council (MRC GYTS 12/18/2010). The survey was conducted in accordance with strict ethical standards and adhered to the ethical guidelines and principles outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki. Participation was voluntary, and confidentiality was maintained throughout the process. Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires completed by learners in selected classrooms, with trained researchers overseeing the process. Informed consent was obtained from the National Department of Education, school principals, parents or guardians, and the learners themselves [ ]. Assents were also obtained from learners who were younger than 18 years old, on the day of the survey.

: Not applicable.

: The authors declare no competing interests.