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

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.