African Peace Studies (Political Science focus) | 01 February 2009
School-based HIV/AIDS Education Programmes and Adolescent Reproductive Health Knowledge in South Africa's Eastern Cape: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation
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Abstract
School-based HIV/AIDS education programmes have been implemented in South Africa's Eastern Cape to improve adolescent reproductive health knowledge. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews was used to assess programme effectiveness and gather detailed insights from participants. The survey revealed that 78% of respondents demonstrated improved knowledge in HIV/AIDS prevention, while thematic analysis of interviews highlighted common misconceptions about contraception methods. School-based HIV/AIDS education programmes have a significant positive impact on adolescents' reproductive health knowledge, but there is room for improvement in areas such as contraceptive use and stigma reduction. Programmes should incorporate more interactive elements to enhance understanding of complex topics like contraception. Additionally, addressing socio-cultural barriers is essential for sustained engagement and effectiveness.