Investigation of the Voice of Students Regarding HIV/AIDS in South African Communities

Solomon Makola; Motalenayne Alfred Modise

doi:10.25159/2663-6549/3514

Authors

Solomon Makola Central University of Technology https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9415-5681
Motalenayne Alfred Modise Central University of Technology (Welkom Campus) https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2950-9129

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2663-6549/3514

Keywords:

HIV/AIDS, Students, Higher Education, Culture, Church, Communication

Abstract

The voice of students has been lacking in the majority of research regarding HIV/AIDS. This study investigated students’ voice regarding HIV/AIDS and its impact on their communities in South Africa. Participants were 20 education students from a South African technology education university (female 60%, black 85%; age range from 18 to 24). The participants completed a semi-structured interview on their voice regarding HIV/AIDS and its impact on their communities in South Africa within the context of treatment of people living with HIV/AIDS. Data were thematically analysed. Findings revealed that church leadership was not informed and as a result, could not address the issues of HIV/AIDS regarding their members. The study indicated that people living with HIV/AIDS needed love, support and care and, further, that belief and culture are contributory factors which need to be addressed with the different stakeholders. As a result of these beliefs and culture, individuals with HIV/AIDS experienced discrimination, lack of support and unfair treatment from their families.