A Qualitative Study on HIV/AIDS - Related Knowledge and Biomedical Prevention Strategies among Students in Tertiary Institutions in Lesotho

Abstract

Background: Tertiary students in Lesotho are exposed to several HIV prevention initiatives, but knowledge and availability do not necessarily translate into use. Aims: This study set out to explore the level of knowledge and use of HIV/AIDS biomedical prevention strategies in institutions of higher learning in Lesotho. Study Design: The study adopted a qualitative approach using focus group discussions with students and in-depth interviews with key informants. Place of Study: The study was conducted at the National University of Lesotho (NUL) and Lesotho College of Education (LCE). Methodology: All participants were purposively selected. A total sample of 80 participants, comprising 75 students, 2 internal stakeholder representatives and 3 external stakeholder representatives, was drawn from NUL. An additional sample of 40 participants was drawn from LCE and comprised 36 students, 2 internal stakeholder representatives and 2 external stakeholder representatives. In total, 111 students, 4 internal stakeholders and 5 external stakeholder representatives took part in the study. Data were analysed using open coding and classified according to dominant themes. Results: Several themes emerged from the data: HIV/AIDS services at NUL and LCE; strategies for preventing HIV among students in institutions of higher learning; students’ perceptions of existing prevention strategies; preferred HIV/AIDS biomedical and prevention services among students; proposed strategies for preventing new HIV/AIDS infections; challenges related to the use of HIV biomedical and prevention strategies; and recommended strategies for strengthening HIV prevention. The findings show that although some biomedical prevention strategies are in place in institutions of higher learning, HIV/AIDS and related issues are not considered a priority, and some critical student needs and preferences are not accommodated. Conclusion: Based on the findings, the study concluded that despite the availability of diverse HIV/AIDS prevention and biomedical strategies at both institutions, and students’ knowledge of these strategies, their utilisation remains low because of inconsistent service availability, limited awareness of other available HIV prevention services and other factors.