Examining the Influence of Stigma and Discrimination on the Retention of Pupils Affected By HIV/AIDS in Emarti Zone, Kirindon Division, Transmara District of Kenya
Samwel Oshulai Kirua
Institute of Open and Distance Learning, Kampala International University, Uganda
ABSTRACT
This study examines the impact of stigma and discrimination on the retention of HIV/AIDS students in Kirindon, Emarti Zone, and Transmara District. The findings revealed that culture is the primary contributing factor to stigma. However, some researchers have reported that we can change culture for the better. We can achieve this by first sensitizing the masses about stigma and discrimination. This could be a starting point for a change of attitude. The people who need to change their attitude include the educators, the parents, and their children. Once completed, the remainder of the intervention will proceed seamlessly. Schools should review the HIV/AIDS interventions they’ve adopted and start implementing them, taking into account children’s right to education. Those in charge of counseling must also carefully observe the children who lose interest in learning or begin to withdraw from school. This behavior may be stigmatizing, necessitating the need for related counseling. Schools must intensify their advocacy for children’s rights. For instance, we must intensify communication-based approaches and collaborate with the local community. Peer educators and volunteers should travel from village to village, meeting families and encouraging them not to isolate those who are HIV/AIDS positive and not to misinform their children.
Keywords: Discrimination, HIV/ AIDS, Interventions, Stigma, Teachers
CITE AS: Samwel Oshulai Kirua (2024). Examining the Influence of Stigma and Discrimination on the Retention of Pupils Affected By HIV/AIDS in Emarti Zone, Kirindon Division, Transmara District of Kenya. IDOSR JOURNAL OF APPLIED SCIENCES 9(2):54-62. https://doi.org/10.59298/IDOSRJAS/2024/9.2.546200