Voluntary Counselling and Testing Seeking Behaviours Among Public University Students, Coast Region of Kenya

Type Journal Article - International Journal of Education and Psychological Research (IJEPR)
Title Voluntary Counselling and Testing Seeking Behaviours Among Public University Students, Coast Region of Kenya
Author(s)
Volume 5
Issue 3
Publication (Day/Month/Year) 2016
URL http://ijepr.org/doc/V5_Is3_Sep16/ij22.pdf
Abstract
Voluntary Counselling and testing seeking behaviours are HIV infection preventive practices. This study determined the VCT seeking behaviour patterns of Public University students in Coast region from 2012-2014. A descriptive cross sectional study among 368 sampled Public University students using multistage sampling technique was used. The participants completed demographic questionnaire, VCTseeking behaviour Perception Scale (VCT-SBPS), VCTclinical records (VCT–CR) and VCT Counsellors interview schedule. HTC uptake among the students rose to 70% in 2014 from 25% in 2012, HIV prevalence trend moved from 15% in 2012 to about 50% in 2013 and down to 5% in 2014. About 55% of those in the age bracket between 15-26 years visited the VCT clinics in 2013. This showed a positive attitude towards the HIV Prevention programme among this age bracket who happens to form the majority of students in the Universities. The male students HTC accessibility was more in 2013 by 54.95% compared to female (12.45%). However in 2014, the trend went down to 7.05% among the females. Student’s perception to VCT clinics visitation was generally positive. The results implied that Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) clinics uptake patterns highly depended on the extent continuous counseling, education, support and funding was provided to support the HIV prevention programmes in the Universities. The study recommended need for more professional counselors at the Universities to assist students and further research on interventions on safe sexual practices within this group.

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