Educators’ perceptions of the life orientation programme in schools and its effect on HIV/AIDS

The life orientation programme (LOP) was introduced to all schools in South Africa to help learners to, among others, take cognisance of their sexual lives. Before the programme was introduced in the 2006, many learners had become infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The programme was introduced based on the perceptions that some learners were struggling as a result of the epidemic. The main aim of this study was to evaluate educators’ perceptions of their ability to successfully implement the objectives of the programme. In the study we used open-ended questions to explore 8 educators’ perceptions on the programme. Of the 8 educators who responded to the questions in the questionnaire, only 2 were interviewed based on their willingness and commitment to life orientation (LO) in schools. The findings suggest that only 1 of the 8 educators had the relevant training and qualification to teach LO at school. Although the educators considered the programme to have a moderate influence on the learners’ sexual behaviour, we highlight compromise and uncertainty about the veracity of such claims. The introduction of LO to South African schools cannot be underestimated because of its well-timed intervention. However, all involved must be committed to ensure successful implementation of the programme.