The Need to Incorporate Population and Family Life Education in Ethiopian School Curriculum

Abstract

Since around 1950, Ethiopia has witnessed important changes in its population
size, structure and composition. The demographic changes occurring in Ethiopia
are due to several important factors. Medical revolutibn has come to Ethiopia.
There have been innovations in public health, such as the development and
widespread use of vaccinations and other forms of immunization, antibiotics,
insecticides, and low-cost methods of sanitation. There have been moderate
improvements in agricultural practice and nutrition. The consequences of these
changes for the Ethiopian families and government have been tremendous. They
have witnessed significant reductions in death rate although it still remains a
matter of concern. The children born today have a higher chance of survival than
in the past. However, the rapid growth in population has adversely affected
resource utilization and/or development. The problem is exacerbated by the
prevalence in many communities of strong traditions, customs, and values which
favor high fertility.