HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health challenge in Sierra Leone, where school-based prevention programmes have been implemented to educate secondary students about HIV/AIDS knowledge acquisition. A qualitative approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with 50 randomly selected secondary school students. Data were analysed using thematic analysis techniques. Students demonstrated a significant increase in knowledge about HIV/AIDS prevention strategies (p=0.02), particularly regarding condom use and safe sex practices. The study concludes that while there has been some improvement in students' understanding of HIV/AIDS, further enhancements are necessary to address misconceptions and reduce stigma. Programmes should incorporate more interactive activities and community engagement to reinforce learning outcomes. HIV/AIDS prevention, secondary school students, Sierra Leone, knowledge acquisition