Perceived sufficiency and usefulness of IEC materials and methods related to HIV/AIDS among High School Youth in Addis Ababa; Ethiopia

ABSTRACT

This study was conducted to assess the perceived sufficiency and usefulness of HIV/AIDS information; education and communication (IEC) messages and materials as well as to identify preferences for IEC sources and methods. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire and focus group discussions. A total of 901 students in Addis Ababa; Ethiopia; participated in the study. Over three quarters of the respondents believed in the usefulness of IEC. IEC materials were perceived to be useful in increasing knowledge about HIV/AIDS by 456 (51 ); to influence attitude by 357 (40 ) and to acquire safer sexual practices by 382 (42 ) of the respondents. None of the information sources and messages available for high school students highly satisfied the sufficiency indicators. Even though no single information source was highly preferred; radio and television ranked top. Life skills training was the most desired intervention by the students. IEC on HIV/AIDS was able to acquaint students with the disease rather than equipping them with knowledge and skill needed in their daily life. Therefore; appropriate and mutually reinforcing IEC messages with emphasis on life skill training are recommended