University of Kwazulu Natal: A complex multi-component intervention to reduce individual social and structural HIV risks in youth in KwaZulu-Natal - Umthombo Wentsha- Fountain for Youth

The Africa Centre Schools Project, Umthombo Wentsha, is a five-year cluster randomised trial to reduce HIV incidence in secondary school youth in rural KwaZulu/Natal, South Africa. The trial will be conducted in 48 secondary schools [24 intervention, 24 control]. The intervention.builds on evidence for the importance of intervening on both individual risk behaviours and broader structural factors that place young people at risk. By empowering young people to make positive life choices, includ ing HIV prevention, and by imparting enhanced skills and social capital, the project aims to reduce HIV in the immediate context of the trial and throughout the lifecourse. To support young people in making these changes, the project will also work to improve school environments and mobilise supportive changes within the broader school community. The complex, multi-component intervention will be implemented during Years 1-3 of the project. Assessments will be conducted at baseline (Year 2), i mmediate post-intervention (Year 4) and two years post- intervention (Year 5), with a primary endpoint of HIV incidence. Secondary outcomes include HSV-2, pregnancy and measures of sexual risk behaviour, vocational skills, and personal social capital. The implementation process and dynamics of the HIV risk environment will be assessed via an in-depth qualitative evaluation.

Programme: Project Grant

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