UNISA Short Course in Practical Skills for HIV Aids Care and Counselling
Course Duration: A comprehensive 6-month program
Intended Participants: This program is designed for individuals in the fields of healthcare, humanities, and social services.
Entry Requirements: Module 1: It is advisable for applicants to have a Senior Certificate or an equivalent qualification recognized at NQF level 4.
Course Conductor: Dr. Keit Shirinda-Mthombeni Department of Psychology Expert in HIV/AIDS Dynamics Theo van Wijk Building, UNISA Contact: 012 429 8317
Program Coordinator: Ms. Gladys Thembani UNISA Centre for Lifelong Learning Solomon Mahlangu Building (Room 2-11) Contact: 012 429 8089 Email: ucl@unisa.ac.za Enroll at: www.unisa.ac.za/applyslp
Course Objective: This module aims to equip participants with comprehensive knowledge, adept skills, and the right mindset to effectively manage and navigate the challenges within the HIV environment. It also strives to capacitate participants to offer guidance, bolster support, and enhance the empowerment of individuals within their communities to understand HIV, prevent its transmission, manage HIV-related issues, and advocate for rights within the HIV landscape.
Module Overview:
Module AIDM01Q – Introduction to HIV/AIDS Care and Counseling
Course Curriculum:
Theme 1: Essential Knowledge of HIV/AIDS
- The evolution of the HIV epidemic
- How HIV affects the immune system
- Mechanisms of HIV transmission and methods of prevention
- Recognizing symptoms and associated conditions, such as tuberculosis (TB) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Protocols for HIV testing
- Overview of Antiretroviral Therapy (ART)
Theme 2: HIV Prevention and Empowerment Strategies
- Techniques for transforming risky behaviors
- Crafting educational initiatives tailored for different environments
- Addressing sexual, gender, and cultural variances and their impacts
Theme 3: Comprehensive HIV Counseling, Care, and Support
- Foundational counseling practices and competencies
- Adapting counseling to varied circumstances
- Guidance for pre-testing and post-testing for HIV
- Approaches to spiritual care and grief counseling
- Fundamentals of community-based home care
- Guidelines for caring for orphans affected by HIV
- Strategies for caregiver self-care
Theme 4: Ethical Considerations in HIV/AIDS
- Advocating human rights and understanding the legal rights and duties of those living with HIV
- Safeguarding the rights of women and children within the HIV/AIDS context
