Constraints faced by primary school headteachers in implementing hiv/aids programme in kamukunji division, nairobi north district, kenya

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate the problems faced by primary school head teachers in implementing HIV/AIDS programme in schools in Kamukunji Division, Nairobi North District. The research questions focused on the methods and techniques used in teaching HlV/AIDS programme implementation, head teachers' and pupils' attitude towards HIV/AIDS programme implementation, adequacy of finances and resources to support HIV/AIDS programme implementation and the problems the head teachers face while implementing HIV/AIDS programme in primary schools. Literature review focused on the background to the situation of HIV/AIDS, its impact on economic development, to the learners, implementation of HIV I AIDS education programme, teaching techniques and the head teachers role in HIV/AIDS education programme implementation. The study employed survey research design. The sample was all the 26 headteachers and Teachers Living With Aids (TL W A) and Teachers Against Aids (T AA) in the division. Data was collected from headteachers in public and private primary schools in the division and from the focus group discussion among Teachers Against ATDS (TAA). Findings revealed that lack of training on the part of the headteachers on HIV/AIDS his hindered the implementation of the programme. It was also revealed that schools used methods and techniques discussions, resource persons, lecture and also used electronic methods such as videos and handling the programme according to the levels of learners in teaching the programme. Schools also had special programmes in their schools concerning HIV/AIDS for pupils which included videos and drama; having banners and

artistic work on school walls as a ways of sensitization. Schools however did not have specialized teachers to handle the programme. It was also revealed that the head teachers, pupils and some teachers had a positive attitude towards the programme. Findings further revealed that headteachers faced problems with infected and the affected pupils. This was due to the absenteeism of the pupils, lack of proper nutrition due to the prevailing poverty levels in the division which affected pupils learning in schools. It was also revealed that headteachers faced challenges which included lack of resources both physical and financial which hindered proper implementation of the programme Based on the above findings it was also recommended that the government through the Kenya Institute of Education should suggest and avail the necessary and adequate teaching and learning materials for easier implementation of the HIV/AIDS programme. It was also recommended that the government through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) should come up and assist infected pupils with basic necessities so that they are able to participate in the schools. The study suggested that a study on the impact of HIV/AIDS on academic performance in primary schools should be conducted. Another study on the attitude of teachers and students on HIV/AIDS in primary schools should be conducted and lastly. since this study was carried out in Kamukunji Division of Nairobi Province which is an urban set up. There is need to carry out a similar research in other districts preferably rural to establish what challenges are faced in those areas.