TB and HIV community-outreach training project in a higher education institution

Abstract

At the request of the South African Department of Health's Western Cape Provincial Tuberculosis Control Directorate, the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, a Higher Education Institution, developed and implemented a Tuberculosis and Human Immunodeficiency Virus community outreach train the trainer project to train community members about Tuberculosis and Human Immunodeficiency Virus. This study aimed to provide a historical overview of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology Tuberculosis and Human Immunodeficiency Virus project and describe the experiences of the trainers involved. A descriptive case study design, using a qualitative approach was applied during this study. The historical overview of the project showed the need for a broad base of networking, securing funding and a project facilitator from the outset of such a project. This study found that trainers had experienced self-development in terms of knowledge, skills and self confidence and that the training had far reaching effects by spreading Tuberculosis and Human Immunodeficiency Virus information in diverse community settings, despite notable challenges experienced in the community settings. Community outreach training projects from a recognized training institution have a positive impact at community level. However, political commitment and development of the course content into a registered learnership are required for sustainability.