Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Breastfeeding Among Female Non-Nutrition Students at Sokoine University of Agriculture, Edward Moringe Campus, Morogoro, Tanzania

Background: Adequate nutrition during early childhood ensures optimal growth and development. Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for the first six months of life, as recommended by the World Health Organization and United Nations Children’s Fund, provides unparalleled nutritional benefits. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and sources of information regarding exclusive breastfeeding among female non-nutrition students at Sokoine University of Agriculture, Edward Moringe Campus, in Morogoro. Method: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from December 1, 2020, to April 31, 2021, among 150 purposively selected female students aged 20-33. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering personal details, attitudes, knowledge, and sources of information on exclusive breastfeeding. Analysis was performed using SPSS software version 22 Results: The majority of respondents (48.0%) believed that breastfeeding should continue up to two years. About 50.7% agreed that breastfeeding should be on demand rather than scheduled. A significant portion (24.0%) strongly disagreed with giving pre-lacteal feeds, while 17.3% strongly agreed. Most respondents (31.3%) supported following vaccination schedules such as the polio vaccine. A notable 37.3% strongly disagreed that breastfeeding should be stopped during a child’s diarrheal episodes. However, 67.3% perceived formula feeding as superior to breastfeeding, and 35.5% disagreed that breastfeeding enhances mother-child bonding. Among the participants, 78.7% had heard about exclusive breastfeeding, with 46.7% learning from health professionals and relatives/friends, and 56.0% receiving detailed information on the topic. Conclusion and Recommendations: The knowledge and attitudes towards exclusive breastfeeding among female university students were generally positive, although some misconceptions persisted. These gaps can be addressed through culturally sensitive, age-appropriate health education sessions and relevant reading materials. Future breastfeeding promotion programs should emphasize these aspects to improve understanding and practices.