Constraints Faced By Primary School Head Teachers In Implementing Hiv/Aids Programmes 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 illV/AIDS programme in schools in Kamukunji Division,

Nairobi North District. The research questions focused on the methods and techniques

used in teaching HIV/AIDS programme implementation, head teachers' and pupils'

attitude towards 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 ofillV/AIDS, its impact on

economic development, to the learners, implementation of HIV/AIDS education

programme, teaching techniques and the 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 (TLWA) and Teachers

Against Aids (TAA) in the division. Data was collected from headteachers in public and

private primary schools in the division.

Findings revealed that lack of training on the part of the headteachers on IDV / AIDS has

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 oflearners in

teaching the programme. Schools also had special programmes in their schools

concerning illV/AIDS for pupils which included videos and drama; having banners and

artistic work on walls as a way of sensitization. Schools however did not have specialized

teachers to handle the programme. It was also revealed that the headteachers had a

positive attitude towards the programme. Findings further revealed that the headteachers

faced problems with infected and the affected pupils. This was due to absenteeism of the

pupils, lack of proper nutrition due to the prevailing poverty levels in the division which

affected pupils learning in high schools. It 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 suggest and avail the necessary and adequate teaching and

learning materials for easier implementation of 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 ofHN/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, lastly since this study

was carried out in Kamukunji Division ofNairobi 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 faced in those areas.