Using peer education approach to prevent HIV/AIDS on young people in Sub Sahara Africa : example the project “Yellow Reglo A” Cameroon

Date
2009-03
Authors
Ngo Ibom, Salome Clemence
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch
Abstract
“I know my body, HIV/AIDS will never happen to me.” Many people especially young-adults (15-39) have a low risk perception, information and knowledge when it comes to sexual activity and STIs. They think that they are infallible and that misfortune –like contracting HIV-only happens to someone else. In many countries and cultures where secrecy and shame surround the subject, sex is a social taboo. In Cameroon, for example, traditionally the uncle gives sex education for boys and by the aunt for girls. However, in current times extended families do not often live together, so the traditional way of giving sex education become more difficult. The government has tried to solve this vacuum by designing an AIDS education programme, which should be implemented in primary and secondary schools. However, most teachers are too ashamed to talk with their pupils about these sensitive matters and the pupils are too afraid to ask sensitive questions. Preventing HIV/AIDS among young-adults in Sub Sahara Africa especially in Cameroon is critical as many are at significant risk for HIV infection. Peer education actually stands to be one strategy for both HIV/AIDS prevention and sexual health promotion for this population. It builds on the strong ties between age-mates fostered during socialization and bypasses adults who are reluctant to talk to youth about sexual matters. Therefore, this research paper will focus specially on the HIV prevention programme; the peer education approach set up on young-adults people in Cameroon; when trying to ascertain whether it can play a significant and constructive role in the fight against HIV/AIDS in the Douala community and in the large extend the whole country.
Description
Thesis (MPhil (Industrial Psychology. HIV/AIDS Management))--University of Stellenbosch, 2009.
Keywords
Dissertations -- HIV/AIDS management, Theses -- HIV/AIDS management, Assignments -- HIV/AIDS management, Dissertations -- Industrial psychology, Theses -- Industrial psychology, Assignments -- Industrial psychology
Citation