JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) for HIV/AIDS is characterized by several key components, including pre-test and post-test counseling, as well as the formulation of individualized risk reduction plans. Adolescents, including secondary school students, represent a population particularly vulnerable to HIV infection due to various biological, psychological, and social factors. In this context, the present study aimed to assess the knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes toward VCT for HIV/AIDS among secondary school students in Iringa Rural District, Tanzania.

Objective:

To assess the knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes toward VCT for HIV/AIDS among secondary school students in Iringa Rural District

Methods:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Iringa Rural District, targeting secondary school students. A random sampling technique was employed to select participating schools. Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires, which were completed solely by students who voluntarily consented to participate in the study. Data management and analysis were carried out using Epi Info™ 7.2 software.

Results:

The study involved 127 secondary school students aged 15–25 years from three schools in Iringa Rural District, with 69 (54.3%) female and 58(45.7%) male participants. All students were aware of the VCT services. The primary source of VCT information was school-based education 92(33.3%), followed by radio/TV 65(23.6%), and friends/family 46(16.7%) and Magazines 35 (12.7%). Some students also cited health centers, hospitals, and religious seminars 38 (13.8%) as sources. Knowledge of VCT increased with education level, with Form IV students showing the highest awareness 67 (55.4%). Most students understood VCT's main purpose: 88(50.6%) linked it to knowing one’s HIV status, 58(33.3%) to HIV prevention, and 28(16.1%) to preparing for test results. No misconceptions about VCT’s purpose were reported. Attitudes toward HIV testing showed that stigma concerns increased with age, particularly among those aged 17–18, where 26(60.5%) were unwilling to be identified as HIV-positive. Nonetheless, 65(51.2%) of students supported knowing their HIV status, and 86(54.4%) said they would inform others and change their behavior after testing. Key barriers to VCT uptake included fear of stigma 71 (50.6%), lack of confidentiality, insufficient trained personnel, and poor infrastructure

Conclusions:

The study found that secondary school students in Iringa Rural District had generally high awareness and positive attitudes towards VCT, mainly informed through schools and media. Awareness increased with education level, but willingness to disclose test results remained low due to stigma and confidentiality concerns. While many students were ready to take responsible actions after testing, barriers such as fear, misinformation, and limited access to services persisted. The study emphasizes the need for improved school-based VCT programs, better-trained staff, community education, and strategies to address stigma and infrastructural gaps.