On Tuesday December 14th, we had Ria Uiterloo as our guest speaker, and her topic was: “Sexual Transmitted Infections (STIs) and HIV/AIDS”.
On Tuesday December 14th, we had Ria Uiterloo as our guest speaker, and her topic was: “Sexual Transmitted Infections (STIs) and HIV/AIDS”. Presented was a short overview of an impact report from the American University of the Caribbean on the request of the St. Maarten Aids Foundation (SAF). Dr. Nathalie N. Humphrey was the lead investigator from AUC for the impact study. The goal has been to assist SAF with the analysis of outcome data to determine the impact of two school Intervention programs implemented in secondary schools since 2007. “Girl power” and “Real Talk” intervention programs are not only designed to influence sexual behavior but to increase STI transmission knowledge, empower girls and boys through skill building activities (for safe decision-making, communication, setting goals and access to prevention methods etc.). This topic was chosen to advocate for the importance of continuation and support (volunteers and funds) from the St. Maarten community. Sex education is often lacking in schools and both programs are therefore important to help students to protect their sexual health and heart.
Some of the following questions are explored in the impact study:
• What were the gaps in STI and HIV/AIDS knowledge among youth prior to program
implementation?
• What aspects of STI and HIV knowledge have changed among participants after
participation in the program?
• Is there a relationship between sexual activity and general knowledge about sexually
transmitted infections?
• What recommendations do stakeholders have for improving the workshop process?
It was a very interesting presentation, that encouraged questions. At the end Ria Uiterloo was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation.
