a sourcebook of hiv/aids prevention programs volume 2

Primary School Action for Better Health, Kenya 129Conveying Consistent MessagesResearch highlighted young people’s sensitivity to the range of messagesthey hear about HIV/AIDS from parents, teachers, religious leaders, themedia, and other sources. Experience gained in the program showed thatprevention is most effective when messages delivered are conveyed consistentlyby a wide range of sources.School visits by trained health workers were found to be helpful indiscussing sensitive topics, such as prevention of infection. The use of peereducators improved the nature and level of communication on HIV risk.Participation of religious leaders increased awareness of the need forconsistent messages.The program stresses the benefits of separating objective informationfrom moral education on sexual issues, emphasizing that accurate informationalone does not promote earlier or more frequent sexual activity. Lackof ability to provide clear messages about condoms presents a clear challengefor the program. The MoEST curriculum is silent about condomsand their use; the policy about condoms in school is “no promotion, distributionor demonstration.” Lessons on condom use are not part of theprogram, although training covers condom use. Teachers are, however,allowed to answer questions students raise about condoms, and they mayrespond to questions posed at school health clubs or through questionboxes. Research shows that young people appreciate receiving accurateinformation as they struggle to create a complete understanding of HIVrisk and prevention.Ensuring SustainabilityThe wisdom of a program manager• Listen to the needs of young people• Respect the difficulties adults have• Work to meet both of the above• Remain flexible enough to allow communities to prioritize their needs and develop theirown solutions• Build research as an integral part of the program• Manage the training team with expertise – keep the content tight and consistent• Give clear, complete, manageable prevention messages• Check what messages are being received as well as delivered• Involve the appropriate levels of the ministry at the beginning and continue a dialogue givingfeedback of research findings• Don’t provide pre-packaged manuals early on – they stop people from thinking for themselves(c) The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development / The World Bank