Nyapada, L: Adolescent Reproductive Health Policy Implementa

The theory of gaining competency for Adolescent Reproductive Health (ARH) policy implementation was inductively generated using grounded theory method.The theory of gaining competency for ARH policy implementation has four progressive, sequential concepts namely: entry into ARH programs, competency development for ARH policy implementation, initiating youth friendly services and implementing youth friendly services. The theory further explains that the process and criteria for identifying ARH policy implementers determines the extent to which the full cycle of gaining competency for ARH policy implementation is achieved. It also shows that the level of institutional support is directly proportional to the level of gaining competency for ARH policy implementation. The implication for policy is that the power to influence policy depends on, among other things, the level of access to knowledge within the context of institutional support, which the full cycle of gaining competency provides. Therefore, the theory recommends that the process of identifying health policy implementers requires an organized procedure that allows for the expression of interest by individuals.