HIV/AIDS Teacher Resource Book - Department of Education

Impacts of the epidemic on education• Teachers are vulnerable to infection because they have access to money andmove around the country. A significant proportion may fall ill, die or need to carefor family members.• Many pupils may die or need to care for family members. Families will be unableto pay school fees, especially for girls.• Girls are especially vulnerable because of biological factors, school fee problemsand because they will have to care for sick relatives.• Boarding students are a high risk group because they are away from theirfamilies.Schools and teachers in the national education system must follow this Policy.Key sections for schools and teachers• Accurate HIV/AIDS information and materials should available to all schools,institutions, teachers and students.• All teachers will be trained in HIV/AIDS and sexual health matters• Life skills training for students• Peer education to be introduced• Trained male and female counsellors should be available to all boarding students• Flexible learning for students affected by HIV/AIDS• Condoms are to be made available in the workplace for all teachers• Condoms are to made available to all boarding students• Access to testing, counselling and treatment made through schools• Community awareness must be conducted• Students and teachers infected or affected must not be discriminated againstSelf study: Reflect on the HIV/AIDS Policy for Education. What are its strengths?Does it have any problems or weaknesses? How will you implement it when you areteaching? How would a primary school implement it?3.10 HIV/AIDS/STI Implementation Plan 2007-2012 andGuidance PostersThe Department of Education has a national strategic plan for implementing the HIV/AIDSPolicy which coordinates schools, Divisions and partners. There is a copy in all schools.There are also resource materials such as Guidance posters for each level ofeducation. Find a copy of the Plan and examine the targets for each year.HIV/AIDS and gender equity are important parts of your School LearningImprovement Plan.Self study: What would your school need to do to implement the HIV/AIDS Policy(2005)? Which are the highest priorities? What do they need to do first? Why?23