Student Teachers\' Perceptions of HIV/AIDS Prevention Methods for Use in Botswana Schools

HIV/AIDS is a social pandemic problem at all levels of society in Botswana. Despite efforts by government and non-governmental organisations to combat the pandemic, many people appear not to have changed their sexual behaviours. This study seeks to determine student perceptions of potential prevention methods that can be used by teachers to combat the spread of HIV/AIDS in Botswana schools. A convenient sample of 200 student teacher trainees was used in this study to answer an essay question and suggest how teachers can combat AIDS in schools. All participants in this study were expected to teach in schools at the end of their professional training. Content analysis was used to analyse the data collected. Most participants suggest that HIV/AIDS education should be included in the school curriculum and that schools should organise seminars and workshops addressed by AIDS patients, the Health Minister, social workers or priests in their schools. There is no doubt that teachers in Botswana can play a vital role in combating the spread of HIV/AIDS among pupils by making them aware of the dangers of indulging in early and unprotected sexual activities. Keywords: HIV/AIDS prevention, student teachers, pupils, schools, BotswanaNigerian Journal of Guidance and Counselling Vol. 13 (1) 2008: pp. 109-12