Abstract #230  -  Ugandan youth preferences for computer based sexuality education: The CyberSenga Project
Authors:   Presenting Author:   Dr. Sheana Bull - Colorado School of Public Health
Additional Authors:  Mr.  Dennis Nabembezi , Ms.  Ruth  Birungi , Dr.  Michele Ybarra, Dr.  Julius Kiwanuka,
Aim: The Aim of this presentation is to describe youth preferences for receiving sexual health information via computers and the Internet.
Method / Issue: There is evidence of stable or increasing prevalence of HIV in Uganda, and infections are common among young people. In addition, the proliferation of computer and Internet use allows for important yet sensitive information about sexuality and HIV prevention to be transmitted using these technologies. We conducted three focus groups with 15 secondary school youth enrolled in Secondary schools in Mbarara, Uganda, in November 2008 to inform the development of the content and structure for the CyberSenga program, an Internet based HIV prevention intervention for Ugandan youth.
Results / Comments: Youth indicated their current options for sexual health education were episodic, incomplete and not all credible. Furthermore, they perceived an overemphasis on HIV and desired more information on other STI as well as healthy sexual relationships. They greatly appreciated the idea of being able to receive sexual health education via computer, because they believed the information could be comprehensive, trustworthy, private and confidential. Youth particularly resonated with having a role model guide them through the program analogous to the “Senga” in Uganda, the name given to adult females responsible for educating youth on topics as they transition to adulthood. They offered specific ideas to make the program relevant for Ugandans, including using pictures of local people and local music.
Discussion: In a time of stable or increasing HIV prevalence coupled with less access to traditional Sengas in Uganda, making a credible Senga role model accessible via a computerized sexual health education program to teach youth has appeal and offers an opportunity to reach many young people. The CyberSenga project appears popular and feasible.
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