Old Enough to Know: Consulting Children about Sex and AIDS Education in Africa

Comprising a sample of eight schools in three sub-Saharan African countries—Kenya, South Africa, and Tanzania—this compelling study examines the sources, contents, and processes of children’s community-based sexual knowledge, questioning how their awareness falls in line with their school’s AIDS education programs. The examination showcases the possibilities of consulting pupils using engaging, interactive, and visual methods, including digital still photography, mini video documentaries, interviews, and observations. These innovative means allow children to speak freely and openly in an environment where discussing sex with adults remains a cultural taboo. The study also sheds fresh light on teachers’ fears and struggles with a lack of training and limited opportunities for reflection on practice. Engaging in dialogue with conflicting voices of community stakeholders, this valuable discussion reveals them as aware of the dangers faced by children living in a world with AIDS as well as afraid of the many cultural, religious, and moral restraints surrounding sex education in Africa.