HIV and AIDS After School Programme

When the Evangelical Bible Church (EBC) in Namibia was looking for a practical way to tackle HIV-AIDS prevention in their community of Katutura, they noticed that many children from disadvantaged homes were performing poorly at school and either failing or dropping out due to a lack of resources at the local schools—a result of the overcrowded classrooms and the limited educational help available to them, both at school and at home. In addition, many of them would play or 'hang out' in the streets after school because of a lack of any positive alternative.

The After School Program (ASP) started in March 2004 and targets school children in Soweto, Katutura, although school children from anywhere in Windhoek are welcome to attend.

The project aims to bring the following results for the children: improved education, living positively to decrease the risk of HIV infection for those who are HIV-negative and to remain AIDS-free for those who are HIV-positive, and for the children to have a positive impact on their families and communities. To achieve these results, the children receive help with their homework and study, remedial help in problem areas, and participate in activities such as Bible clubs, HIV and AIDS awareness, Life Skills, sports, craft and learning games.