Knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding HIV among university students: A comparative cross-sectional study of residents vs. off-campus students.

Authors

  • Sibonelo Thanda Mbanjwa Mangosuthu University of Technology P.O. Box 12363 Jacobs 4026 Durban, South Africa

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i9.1985

Keywords:

HIV prevention, University Students, Knowledge Acquisition, Attitudes, Practices, On-campus students, Off-campus students, Residence status, Sexual health education, South Africa, Higher education, HIV risk behaviours

Abstract

Background
HIV remains a major public health concern among young adults, particularly within higher education settings. University students’ living arrangements, whether residing on-campus or off-campus, can significantly influence their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to HIV prevention and care. This study aimed to compare HIV-related KAP between students living in university residences and those residing off-campus.

 Method
A cross-sectional study was conducted at a South African university between October 2021 and January 2022. Using stratified random sampling, 400 undergraduate students were selected, comprising 200 on-campus and 200 off-campus residents. Data were collected using a structured, pre-validated KAP questionnaire covering HIV knowledge, attitudes, sexual behaviours, and access to services. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression.

 Results
Participants had a mean age of 21.4 years (SD = 2.1); 52% were female and 48% male. On-campus students demonstrated significantly higher HIV knowledge scores (mean 78%) compared to off-campus students (mean 63%) (p < 0.01). Positive attitudes toward HIV prevention were reported by 85% of on-campus students, compared to 68% of off-campus students (p < 0.05). Risky sexual behaviours, including inconsistent condom use and multiple sexual partners, were more prevalent among off-campus students (42%) than those on campus (25%) (p < 0.01). Engagement with campus-based HIV education programs was notably lower among off-campus students (34%) versus on-campus students (76%) (p < 0.001).

 Conclusion
Living arrangements significantly influence HIV-related KAP among university students, with off-campus students at greater risk due to lower knowledge levels and limited program engagement.

Recommendation
Targeted HIV outreach for off-campus students, coupled with partnerships with community health organizations, is essential to ensure equitable access to prevention and care.

Author Biography

Sibonelo Thanda Mbanjwa, Mangosuthu University of Technology P.O. Box 12363 Jacobs 4026 Durban, South Africa

is a dedicated lecturer in the Department of Nature Conservation at Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), South Africa. He holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Science and specializes in biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and environmental education. Dr. Mbanjwa is deeply committed to community engagement, student mentorship, and the integration of indigenous knowledge systems into conservation practices. His work bridges academia and practical application, empowering students and communities through innovative teaching, research, and outreach initiatives.

References

Mbelle, N. et al., 2019. South African National HIV Prevalence, Incidence, Behaviour and Communication Survey, 2017: Towards achieving the UNAIDS 90 90 90 targets. Cape Town: HSRC Press.

Ndlovu, P. & Moyo, S., 2017. Cardiovascular disease burden in rural Africa: does HIV and antiretroviral treatment play a role? Journal of the American Heart Association, 9(7), Article e013466.

Pillay, A. et al., 2021. Plasma biomarkers of risk of tuberculosis recurrence in HIV co-infected patients. Frontiers in Immunology, 12, p.631094. https://doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2021.631094 PMid:33841412 PMCid:PMC8026888

Simbayi, L.C. et al., 2020. Trends and determinants of ever having tested for HIV among youth and adults in South Africa from 2005-2017: results from four repeated cross-sectional nationally representative surveys. PLoS ONE, 15(5), e0232883.https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0232883 PMid:32407342 PMCid:PMC7224525

UNAIDS, 2020. Global AIDS Update - Seizing the moment. Geneva: Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS.

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Published

2025-09-12

How to Cite

Mbanjwa, S. T. (2025). Knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding HIV among university students: A comparative cross-sectional study of residents vs. off-campus students. Student’s Journal of Health Research Africa, 6(9), 9. https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i9.1985

Issue

Section

Section of Educational Studies Research

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