Esu-Williams E, Asuquo A, Oku O; International Conference on AIDS.
Int Conf AIDS. 1994 Aug 7-12; 10: 321 (abstract no. PD0465).
AIDScap Field Office , Kalabar, Niegeria.
OBJECTIVE: To offer CSWs retraining opportunities through literacy and vocational education in order to expand income-earning options, build self-esteem and reduce HIV/AIDS risk behaviour. METHODS: Training needs and content were identified through a consultative process. Nka Iban Uko, an NGO consisting of CSWs, community activists and educators, was formed to run a training centre where CSWs could enroll in two parallel programs: a literacy course with a health component and a vocational course. Three two-hour classes were offered weekly and CSWs attending classes were given US 50 cents/day as transport fare. RESULTS: A six-month pilot program in 1993 attracted 25 CSWs, 10 dropped out because of disinterest, out-of-town travel, and financial problems. The 1994 program initially registered 60 CSWs but could only accommodate 40. These consist of drop-outs from 1993, others seeking additional skills and those impressed by the achievements of their peers. Of those already trained, six women plan to set up their own businesses if provided with a grant of US $100. Others make and sell articles such as cookies and soap in their hotels and to the public, and one provides instruction at the centre. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The Nka Iban Uko centre has proven that CSWs keen to discontinue sex work or increase their income options can be receptive to training and are able to learn new skills. Through the training the women developed more confidence, demonstrated by a greater awareness of their rights and better condom negotiating skills. They also developed learning skills which enabled them to better understand the complexity of HIV/AIDS. Retraining of CSWs should be structured towards meeting personal and group needs and reinforcing risk reduction rather than discouraging commercial sex work.
Publication Types:
Keywords:
- Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
- Condoms
- Condoms, Female
- Female
- HIV
- HIV Infections
- HIV Seropositivity
- Health Planning
- Humans
- Learning
- Peer Group
- Prostitution
- United States
- education
- organization & administration
Other ID:
UI: 102210798
From Meeting Abstracts