Exploring the status of HIV/AIDS related stigma among students in Botswana learning institutions: a comparison of BAIS II and BAIS IV

Abstract

This paper explores the extent to which HIV/AIDS related stigma has increased or decreased amongst students in Botswana institutions of learning over a period of 8 years. Using the responses from the individual questionnaire from both the BAIS II of 2004 and BAIS IV of 2012 surveys, the study investigated whether or not students would allow a teacher living with HIV to continue with his/her work. The participants were aged between 10 and 24at the time of the study. Chi-square and logistic regression were used to navigate the data. The results of the study show a significant increase of tolerance towards a teacher living with HIV. Though difference due to places of residence, level of schooling and gender are similar to those in 2004, generally, negative attitudes decreased over the years. These positive findings may be attributed to the fact that HIV/AIDS education is infused in the Botswana curriculum right from primary school to tertiary, TV presentations and other educational programs. However, learning environment in Botswana learning institutions may not be safe for the infected and/or affected because of stigma and discrimination.