Tracer Study on the Certificate of HIV/AIDS Counselling at the University of Namibia

Abstract

PCF5 Sub-theme: Health // The impact of HIV/Aids has already reduced the Gross Inland Product of countries south of the Sahara, between 2 – 4 % and Namibia is no exception. In support of the Namibian government’s movement of seizing the pandemic, the University of Namibia, through its Centre for External Studies, introduced a Certificate in HIV/AIDS Counselling in 2005. Approximately 120 students from various professions, country wide, have graduated during the past 3 years. However, the question that comes to mind is what impact the trainees could have on their working environment as well as in their own lives and of those in their immediate communities. // The Centre for External Studies will therefore conduct a tracer study designed to assess the impact of this Certificate course and to examine the extent to which the University is able to contribute to the knowledge and practical skills with regard HIV and AIDS counselling in the work environments and broader communities. Furthermore, the research will determine the extent the internalisation of the course had on the participants’ behavioural patterns, their working environment as well as their personal lives. // Focus group discussions, structured questionnaires and interviews with former students and their employers revealed that students found the course useful in their workplace as well as in their personal life experiences. Anecdotal data indicated there is a demand for a follow-up diploma course. // Paper ID 351