play in reducing the risks and vulnerabilities associated with HIV and AIDS

Priorities
In partnership with parents and communities, schools
and other learning environments have an important
role to play in reducing the risks and vulnerabilities
associated with HIV and AIDS. In reaching this goal,
the IATT on Education commits itself to the following
priority actions:
Promoting policies and practices that favour effective
learning and school attendance (for example,
through fl exible and participatory deli very), gender
equity, safe and protective learning environments,
access to youth-friendly health and support services,
and an environment free of stigma and discrimination.
Ensuring that educators and other education personnel
are well prepared and supported to address
HIV and AIDS through in-service and pre-service
training, through the implementation nationally endorsed
workplace policies for the education sector,
12 and through access to health and support
services.
Ensuring HIV and AIDS are given adequate attention
as part of the school curriculum at all levels and
that holistic health promotion programmes following
FRESH (Focusing Resources on Effective School
Health) guidelines13 in schools address the range of
behaviours that put young people at risk of HIV infection
(e.g. unsafe sex practices, substance abuse
and violence).
Promoting peer education, life skills education and
livelihood support for children and young people
both in school and outside of school, and among
teachers and educators.
Providing accurate and good quality teaching
and learning materials on life skills, gender and
HIV & AIDS for use by learners and educators.
Fostering research that enhances the evidence base
and feeds into policy decisions and practice at the
country level.