An ecosystemic programme for dealing with difficulties experienced by AIDS orphans at schools

Abstract

The aims of this research about an ecosystem programme for dealing with difficulties experienced by AlDS orphans at schools was to determine, by means of a qualitative research, the psychological well being condition of learners affected or orphaned by HIVIAIDS; their general performance at school; the nature and extent of social support they get from their schools, family, community and society; their physical well-being; and to make suggestions for an ecosystem psycho-social support for them in order to enhance and strengthen their psycho-social well-being. The literature review highlighted that, as a result of HIVIAIDS, new family forms are emerging, such as "skip-generation" families, where the parent generation has succumbed to HIV/AIDS and HIVIAIDS-related illnesses and the families are made up of grand-parents and orphaned grand-children, and child-headed families. The empirical research revealed that some learner AlDS orphans come to school hungry, steal money for food, are exploited and abused through child labour and sex by adults, and drop out of school. On the basis of both the literature review and empirical research findings, recommendations which emphasize a psycho-social counseling programme for AlDS orphans and strategic management for their schools, were made.