African Medical Laboratory Immunology | 28 June 2010
Effectiveness of School-Based Health Education Programmes on HIV Testing Attitudes Among Syrian Children in Lebanese Informal Settlements 2010
L, u, i, s, a, D, i, a, s, ,, P, e, d, r, o, M, a, t, o, s, ,, M, a, r, i, a, S, i, l, v, a, ,, F, e, r, n, a, n, d, o, d, a, C, o, s, t, a
Abstract
This case study examines the effectiveness of school-based health education programmes in promoting HIV testing attitudes among Syrian children residing in Lebanon’s informal settlements. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating quantitative pre- and post-intervention surveys (\(n=200)\) assessing knowledge gains, attitudes, and intentions to test for HIV among Syrian children aged 8-15 years. Qualitative data from focus group discussions with parents and teachers provided context on programme implementation and perceived effectiveness. The quantitative analysis revealed a statistically significant increase in the proportion of children who reported being aware of HIV testing (from 30% to 60%, $p<0.05$), coupled with an observed shift towards more positive attitudes toward voluntary testing, although these changes were not uniformly replicated across all age groups. The educational programmes demonstrated promise in improving knowledge and changing attitudes about HIV testing among Syrian children but highlighted the need for tailored strategies to ensure broad coverage and culturally sensitive implementation. Further research should investigate long-term impacts, assess programme scalability, and explore methods to enhance engagement with older age groups. Policy recommendations include integrating such programmes into existing school curricula and advocating for community-based support networks.