Implementing a school-based HIV prevention program during public health emergencies: lessons learned in The Bahamas

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Education
• Disaster Management

Background:

• Natural disasters and public health crises disrupt community programs.
• HIV prevention programs Focus on Youth in The Caribbean (FOYC) and Caribbean Informed Parents and Children Together (CImPACT) in The Bahamas were impacted by Hurricane Dorian and COVID-19.
• Remote Family Islands were particularly affected.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore teacher- and school-level factors influencing the implementation of FOYC + CImPACT in The Bahamas during disruptions.
• To identify strategies supporting program implementation amidst crises.

Main Methods:

• Data collected from 47 teachers and 984 students in 34 schools during 2020-2021.
• Teachers completed pre-implementation questionnaires and attended training workshops.
• School coordinators and mentors provided monitoring, feedback, and support.
• Fidelity measured by the number of sessions and core activities taught.

Main Results:

• Teachers delivered 60% of sessions and 53% of core activities on average.
• Strong school coordinator support correlated with higher activity completion.
• Teachers receiving online or blended training showed higher implementation rates than those with no training.
• Implementation was linked to improved student outcomes in reproductive health skills, self-efficacy, and intention.

Conclusions:

• Hurricane Dorian and COVID-19 significantly disrupted educational programs in The Bahamas.
• Teacher training and implementation monitoring enhanced fidelity despite challenges.
• Effective strategies were identified to support school-based interventions during future crises.