Country watch: Thailand
Nopkesorn, T.
Aids Health Promotion Exchange 1994(4): 6-7
1994
ISSN/ISBN: 1013-7785 PMID: 12288555 Document Number: 300308
The Third Army Area of the Royal Thai Army collaborated with the Ministry of Public Health, CDC, and PATH in developing an AIDS education program for military conscripts. A qualitative research via focus group discussion was first done to ensure that the program would correspond with the needs and wishes of the conscripts. Results of the study revealed that many conscripts believed that regular STD screening would protect them against infection. Conscripts also indicated that AIDS education should be conducted by conscripts for conscripts in an informal and interesting way and that AIDS messages should make them think rather than fearful. The program was subsequently modified to a peer-based one and was later pretested among soldiers who were suggested as peer educators by focus group participants. Further changes were made to the program after trainees requested more information on basic facts, sex education, and communication techniques. The present three-day training course includes ice-breaking exercises, a seminar on peer activities, and training in educational methodologies, sex education and communication techniques. Five peer educators from five bases--all medical corps conscripts--have now educated 3500 recruits. Evaluations showed that the program is a cost-effective means of raising awareness and increasing knowledge about AIDS/HIV. The program is currently investigating ways to encourage behavioral change.