An Analysis of Knowledge and Attitudes About HIV-AIDS

Statistics on HIV-AIDS show that infection is predominant among the youth aged 15-24 years - the largest population in universities. A descriptive survey was conducted in two public universities and two private universities in Nairobi. A sample of 240 students was used. Data were collected using questionnaires and interview schedules. Mass media, peers and the universities HIV-AIDS programmes were some most common sources of information on HIV-AIDS. Over 85 percent of the students correctly identified some of the major modes of HIV-AIDS transmission but they were also quite unclear about other modes of transmission.Although 80 percent of the students had adequate information to protect themselves from HIV-AIDS and had changed their behaviour,some students may still be at risk of infection. HIV-AIDS awareness targeting the youth should be increased in the mass media. Deliberate efforts focusing on attitude and behaviour change are required through inter-university games, HIV-AIDS awareness week, the inclusion of an HIV-AIDS awareness module in the student orientation courses,the establishment of HIV-AIDS resource centres and the strengthening of peer counseling programmes.