UNZA Students as Leaders for Abstinence Programmes

Abstract

Aim: To encourage secondary school pupils to abstain from sexual activities and concentrate on their academic activities by using UNZA students as role models.

Method: The study targeted all grade 10 to 12 pupils from the 17 schools that were randomly picked in Lusaka province. To help in the sensitization 100 students were selected from the University of Zambia and trained to be trainers in areas of Abstinence, public speaking tips, assertiveness, careers and HIV/AIDS: These students helped come up with a monitoring and evaluation tool which had a set of questions targeted at raising awareness in abstinence (AB), careers, assertiveness, information on HIV/AIDS.The monitoring and evaluation tool was firstly administered randomly with larger groups then after sensitisation, within smaller groups.

Results: The pupils exhibited high knowledge about HIV and AIDS pandemic and prevention measures. The pupils in nearly all the schools were receptive and showed interest thus calling for continuity of the programme. It was also found that presentations on career options were able to capture the attention of the pupils and engage them into discussions on HIV and AIDS and abstinence.

Conclusion: Combined abstinence and comprehensive sex education should be used to help bring about delayed initiation of sexual activities, address gender inequities and varying cultural norms about acceptable male and female sexual behavior.