Yohannes, Kalkidan
Gezahegn, Melkamu
Birhanie, Mekonnen
Simachew, Yilkal
Moges, Awoke
Ayano, Getinet
Toitole, Kusse Koirita
Mokona, Hirbaye
Abebe, Lulu
Article History
Received: 16 December 2021
Accepted: 6 April 2023
First Online: 18 April 2023
Declarations
:
: The purpose of this study was explained to the study participants. Because of the sensitivity of the subject, the study relied on relevant ethical considerations throughout the study. We obtained ethical clearance from the Ethical Review Committee of Dilla University’s Center for Women, Children and Youth Research before the commencement of the study. Permission to conduct interviews was obtained from the Labour and Social Services offices of Wolaita Sodo, Arba Minch, Hawassa and Dilla. Before receiving informed consent, the study’s potential benefits and risks were explained to each participant. The data collectors explained the overall plan, the purpose, the methodology, the risks and consequences, the identity of the principal investigator, the fact that participation was voluntary and that the participant had the right to withdraw at any time. We paid particular attention to underage participants. Since most homeless youths live alone, despite them being under 18 we were unable obtain their guardians’ consent. Nevertheless, the survey was explained in as much detail as possible to the underage participants.The participants’ privacy was ensured by not including identifiable information and conducting the interviews privately to comply with the do-no-harm principle. Every participant, the data collectors and the supervisors were obligated to utilise infection prevention and control techniques in line with COVID-19-specific recommendations. Participants were not put at risk of contracting COVID-19 during the data collection procedure. Everyone in the study used facemasks and practised social distancing of two metres. The study did not include any participants who refused to take the standard COVID-19 precautions. The authors declare that all procedures were carried out in accordance with the regulations established by the Clinical Research and Ethics Committee and the Helsinki Declaration of the World Medical Association.
: Not applicable.
: The authors declare no competing interests.