HIV/AIDS education in a South African rural-based university in the Limpopo Province

Abstract

Whilst it can be confidently assumed that institutions of higher education are attempting to mainstream HIV/AIDS into the curriculum, the impact of doing this as far as reducing HIV infections is concerned is simply not visible. This can be seen by the continued increase in HIV infections and the persistence of behaviour that increases the risk of infection among university students. The purpose of the study was to explore and describe approaches used in a South African, rural-based university for HIV/AIDS education. A qualitative design using descriptive, contextual and exploratory approach was undertaken. In-depth, face-to-face interviews and focus group discussion were conducted with key informants such as students, HIV/AIDS coordinators, campus health personnel and health promoters. The data were analysed according to the guidelines suggested by Tesch. Although the institution had several approaches to HIV/AIDS education, the findings suggest that these approaches failed to yield positive results. The study found evidence of stigma and discrimination on campus, limited access to HIV/AIDS programmes by academics, and high-risk sexual behaviour. The HIV/AIDS education is also negatively affected due to inadequate financial, infrastructural and, human resources. It was concluded that HIV/AIDS education approaches should take into consideration the rural-based university community and the context of the risk of HIV infection for this community