HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health concern in South Africa, particularly affecting secondary school-aged youth who are at higher risk of infection due to limited access to comprehensive sex education and prevention programmes. The study employed a mixed-methods approach including quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. A total of 500 students from randomly selected schools participated in the survey component, while 10 focus groups were conducted with teachers and parents for in-depth insights into programme implementation and effectiveness. A significant proportion (63%) of respondents reported improved knowledge about HIV/AIDS transmission and prevention strategies after participating in the school-based programmes. However, there was a notable disparity in impact based on socioeconomic status, with lower-income students showing less improvement. School-based HIV/AIDS prevention programmes have had mixed but generally positive impacts on secondary school-aged youth in Cape Town, South Africa, particularly among higher socio-economic groups. Further research and targeted interventions are recommended to address disparities observed. Integrate culturally sensitive education materials into existing curricula, enhance parental involvement, and implement supplementary support services for lower-income students to ensure equitable access to prevention programmes.
Makhene Mokoena (Wed,) studied this question.