MALAWI UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
BINGU SCHOOL OF CULTURE AND HERITAGE
PROECT MANAGEMENT
FROM : ELLEN MAKHAMBERA
REG NO. : LCC/006/22
TO : Mr. B. NYASULU
COURSE CODE: PROM-3100
ASSIGNMENT DATE: 25 MARCH 2025
SUBMISSION DATE: 04 APRIL 2025
Project Management Plan for Reducing HIV/AIDS Infections
among Students in Blantyre
HIV/AIDS continues to be one of the great public health challenges in
Malawi. Student’s populations in Blantyre are increasing becoming
affected by this disease. The Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS
(UNAIDS, 2023), reports that young people especially students, remain
highly vulnerable to HIV infection due to inadequate access to
comprehensive sexual education and preventive measures. Many
young people engage in high risk behavior which have contributed to
the increasing rate of infection as reported by studies (Malawi National
Aids Commission). This project aims to reduce the number of student
contracting HIV/AIDS by implementing a structured management plan
that focuses on awareness, prevention and support. By taking a
strategic approach, this initiative seeks to equip students with
knowledge, access to health services, and behavioral change
strategies necessary to curb the spread of the virus
The primary goal of this project is to reduce the percentage of students
contracting HIV/AIDS in Blantyre c each year. To achieve this, the
following objectives have been established. Objectives of this project
are:
- Increase awareness about HIV/AIDS transmission, prevention, and
treatment among students.
- Facilitate access to HIV testing and counseling services.
- Promote behavior change through safe sex practices and abstinence
and faithfulness.
- Establish strong partnerships with stakeholders such as universities,
healthcare providers, and government agencies to ensure a
sustainable approach.
According to the Malawi National AIDS Commission (2022),
interventions targeting youth have shown promising results in lowering
infection rates.
Project Scope
This project targets students in universities, colleges, and secondary
schools across Blantyre. Implementation will occur over a one-year
period, focusing on education, testing, and behavior change. The
multidisciplinary team, including health professionals, educators, and
community leaders, will be engaged. Studies indicate that university
students are particularly vulnerable due to high-risk behaviors
(Ministry of Health Malawi, 2021).
The project has the following deliverables:
1. a comprehensive HIV/AIDS education program for students,
including a curriculum and training manual.
2. A baseline survey report assessing current knowledge, attitudes and
behavior related to HIV/AIDS among students.
3. A mid-term and end term evaluation report assessing the impact of
the project. 4. A peer education program established across
Blantyre schools 5. HIV testing and counselling
services
In order to effectively deliver the required outcomes, the project will be
delivered in 5 core phases.
PHASE 1. Planning and Research (Months 1-2)
Underpinned by months of research and planning, the success of this
proposal relies on the fundamental s. as part of this this process, data
on infection rates among students will be collected and identification
of the main risk factors for the transmission of HIV. As stated by the
world Health Organization (WHO, 2023), gathering data enables the
design of targeted initiatives that addresses the actual needs of the
group. this will include a work plan, including activities, budget and
stake holder engagement. To build on these ideas and secure
partnerships, meetings will take place with universities, health
organizations, and community leaders.
Phase 2: Awareness and Education (Months 3-6)
One of the most important weapons against HIV/AIDS is knowledge.
According to WHO (2023), a good education lowers the rate of Hive
infection significantly because it helps people make better decisions.
At this stage, educational campaigns will be conducted in academic
institutions- schools and universities. The project group shall conduct
workshops, seminars, and open discussion to provide students with
information on how HIV is transmitted, prevention strategies and
support services available. Peer educators will play an important in
reaching out to students and breaking the myths surrounding HIV and
AIDS. Educational materials such as pamphlets and videos will be
distributed for further enlighten.
PHASE 3: Testing and Counselling.
Knowing one’s HIV status is an important prevention activity for
students. According to UNAIDS (2023), timely diagnosis and treatment
will further reduce the transmission of HIV.this phase will provide free
and confidential HIV testing and counselling services. The project team
collaborates with health professionals to establish testing centers
within school premises. Supportive counsellors are available to guide
and support students who test positive or are at high risk. For those
who may be HIV positive, the initiative will focus on regular testing and
early treatment.
PHASE 4. Behavior Change and Prevention Strategy (Months 9-12)
Condensed knowledge, permanent change requires a shift in attitudes
and behaviors. The Malawi National AIDS Commission states that
comprehensive behavior change strategies, including safe sex
education, abstinence programs and condom distribution, significantly
contribute to the prevention of HIV. This phase introduces practical
intervention encouraging safe sexual practices like condom distribution
coupled with education on proper use .mentorship and peer
discussions will reinforce abstinence and faithfulness programs. The
project will also involve social influcers, role models and public
personalities who can promote responsible behavior among students.
PHASE 5: Monitoring and Evaluation.
To measure the effectiveness of the project, it will be monitored and
evaluated all along. Data will be collectected regarding student
participation in awareness campaigns, the access of testing services by
students and changes in attitude towards HIV prevention. According to
UNAIDS (2023), recommendation s are made based on a Data driven
approach in order to track progress and identify areas that need
improvement. Regular feedback sessions will be conducted with
students, educators, and health professionals to explore challenges
faced and areas that can be improved upon. The final evaluation will
recommend further steps if the the project has been successful in
reducing HIV infection rates among students.
Stakeholders and Their Roles
A successful project requires collaboration among different
stakeholders. The key participants in this include:
- Project Manager: Oversees the entire project, ensuring goals and
timelines are met.
- Health Professionals: Provide HIV testing, counseling, and medical
support.
- Educational Institutions: Facilitate student engagement and provide
venues for educational programs.
- Peer Educators: Engage students in discussions, offer peer support
and promote safe practices.
- Community Leaders and NGOs: Provide funding, advocacy, and long-
term sustainability support.
Budget and Resources
This project will require financial and material resources to carry out
awareness campaigns, provide testing services and support peer
educators. Funding will be sourced from government health programs,
private organization, and international donors. Costs will cover training
materials, health kits, promotional materials and logistics for
awareness campaign.UNAIDS (2023) recommends that HIV/AIDS
programs allocate substantial budgets toward education and
prevention efforts.
The project budget is estimated to be MK10, 000,000 (Malawi Kwacha),
broken down into:
1. Personnel and Training: 30% (MK 3,000,000)
2. Educational materials and equipment: 20% (MK 2,000,000)
3.peer education program: 15 % (MK 1,500,000)
5. Miscellaneous (transport, etc.): 15% (MK 1,500,000)
Risk Management
Several challenges may arise during the implementation of this
project, including.
1. Resistance to Behavior Change:
some students may be reluctant to adopt safer practices due to
misinformation or cultural beliefs. This will be addressed through
continuous education and engagement, WHO (2023) suggests that
peer education programs are effective in overcoming resistance.
2. Stigma around HIV Testing:
Fear of discrimination may prevent students from testing. The project
will ensure confidentiality and a supportive environment (Malawi
National AIDS Commission, 2022).
3. Limited Funding:
Financial constraints may hinder some implementation. The project
team will actively seek partnerships and sponsorships with NGOs and
government agencies to sustain the initiative (Ministry of Health
Malawi, 2021)
Sustainability of the Project
To sustain project impact, HIV/AIDS education will be integrated into
university and school programs. Student organizations will be trained
to continue peer education and advocacy efforts. Malawi’s National
AIDS Commission (2022) emphasizes that incorporating HIV education
into curricula strengthens long-term prevention strategies. The project
will ensure sustainability by:
1. by collaborating with local health authorities and stakeholders.
2. Establishing a peer education program.
3. Providing training and capacity-building for teachers and health
workers. 4. Developing a plan for continuation of
project activities beyond the project period.
Ethical Considerations
Ethical considerations include confidentiality, informed consent, and
respect for cultural values. UNAIDS (2023) underscores the importance
of upholding privacy in HIV/AIDS interventions. An ethical review board
will monitor all activities to ensure adherence to best practices.
Conclusion
HIV/AIDS remains a pressing issue among students in Blantyre but with
a well-structured project management plan, it is possible to reduce
infection rates. Through education, accessible health services and
behavior change strategies, this initiative will empower students to
protect themselves and their peers. Collaboration with key stake
holders will ensure the project’s success and sustainability. By taking a
proactive approach, the student’s population can work towards a
future with fewer HIV/AIDS cases, improved health outcomes and
stronger sense of responsibility towards their wellbeing. This project
provides a structured and sustainable approach to reducing HIV/AIDS
infections among students in Blantyre.
References
Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS). (2023). *Global
HIV & AIDS statistics – Fact sheet*. Retrieved from
https://www.unaids.org
Malawi National AIDS Commission. (2022). *HIV Prevention Strategy
2022-2026*. Lilongwe, Malawi.
World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). *HIV/AIDS Key Facts*.
Retrieved from https://www.who.int
Ministry of Health Malawi. (2021). *Youth and HIV/AIDS: A Call to
Action*. Lilongwe, Malawi.
Pettifor, A., MacPhail, C., Nguyen, N., & Rosenberg, M. (2022). *HIV
prevention among young people in sub-Saharan Africa: The importance
of addressing social and structural factors*. Journal of the International
AIDS Society, 25(1), e25782.
Rosenberg, M., Pettifor, A., & Behets, F. (2023). *Trends in HIV
prevention among youth in Malawi*. African Journal of Public Health,
18(2), 112-124.
