Risk Of Hiv/Aids Infection Among University Students; A Case Study Of Maasai Mara University.

Abstract

ABSTRACT The research project investigated the risk factors contributing to the HIV/AIDs infection among university students a case study of Maasai Mara University. HIV continues to spread in most countries of the world including Kenya. Since HIV/AIDs has no cure yet, behavior change has been fronted as the most likely scientific basis for the reduction in HIV prevalence. The virus is spread mainly by sexual behavior and drug taking that are generally private and sometimes difficult to discuss openly. The purpose of the study was to get the root causes of HIV among students in universities. This study therefore was guided by three objectives; to determine the magnitude of HIV/AIDs among university students, to investigate risk factors of HIV/AIDs infection among students, to determine the intervention measures which have been put in place to control HIV/AIDs infection. The study was conducted in Narok Couty at Maasai Mara University. In this study descriptive research design was used which is appropriate for the behavioral concept. A total of 45 respondents with 25 (55.6%) females and 20 (44.4%) males and 5 key informants were used in the study. Data was collected using questionnaires and interviews. The study instrument used was questionnaire which was validated through preliminary pilot testing. Data collected was analyzed and presented inform of frequency tables and charts. The study found out that majority of MMU students were first years (44.4%) and third years recorded the least numbers at (22.2%). According to data sugar mummy and daddies topped as the major cause of the HIV/AIDs infection among students at (80%), lack of condom use (77.8%), peer pressure (77.8%), alcohol and drug abuse (66.7%), multiple sex partners (66.7%) were reported to be the major contributing factors towards HIV/AIDs transmission while casual sex and prostitution were reported to be low among the students which stood at (22.2%) and (33.3%) respectively. Data revealed that (44.4%) out of 45 respondents were not willing to tell their HIV status which was as a result of most of them not aware of their HIV status therefore there is need to encourage students to go for the same. Majority of students engaged themselves into unprotected sex (56%) and only (44%) used condom during sexual intercourse. The study also revealed (53%) to having multiple sexual partners and (47%) had one partner. 19 students out of 45 reported to know colleague who was infected with HIV/AIDs and strict ten to ten rule and guidance on relationship and HIV/AIDs were suggested by students to be the relevant measures that the university should adopt to addressing the transmission. The study has given recommendations to the university on how to address the risk factors of HIV/AIDs infection.