THE EFFECT OF EDUCATION ON STUDENTS KNOWLEDGE, BEHAVIOR AND PRACTICES ABOUT HIV/AIDS IN SELECTED HIGH SCHOOL OF ADDIS ABABA

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to assess and analyse the effect of education on students’ knowledge, behaviour and practice in relation to HIV/AIDS in Medehanialem High School Preparatory Class in Addis Ababa City Administration. The study focuses on assessing the effect of general and HIV/AIDS related education on their understanding, behaviour and practice specifically curving the multifaceted impacts of the pandemic. The methods of the study were quantitative where primary and secondary sources of data were used. To collect the necessary data, the researcher employed structured questionnaire, focus group discussion and document analysis as major techniques. In this regard, interview guides and questionnaires used as main instruments for data collection. In the course of analysis, students’ knowledge on the ways HIV transmission, risk behaviours and prevention measures was expressed. As having multiple sexual relationships is the principal way of virus transmission. On the other hand, the students understanding in relation to the modes of HIV transmission was found to be low besides there is a room for further education in a manner to change the students’ behaviour and practice. It was concluded that education has significant positive effect on students ‘knowledge, behaviour and practice in relation to their efforts in the prevention, care and support for people infected or affected by HIV/AIDS. In this regard, the researcher suggests a number of relevant areas of interventions that would contribute to the existing efforts of the government, civil society actors and the school communities to improve students’ knowledge, attitude and practice pertaining HIV/AIDS. By and large, the school-based anti-HIV/AIDS clubs could play pivotal roles in awareness raising and sensitization of students, teachers and other staffs at school on HIV/AIDS if adequate supports are provided for them.