DENPASAR, Bali – A recent increase in HIV infections among junior high school students in Denpasar has prompted calls for expanded HIV/AIDS education programs targeting school children, beginning at teh middle school level. The initiative aims to equip young people with the knowledge necessary to protect themselves and prevent further transmission of the virus.
The need for proactive education was highlighted during a Media Journalism Training Without Stigma for Ending AIDS 2030,held Saturday,October 11,2025,by AHF Indonesia and the Bali AIDS Concern Journalist Group. Dewa Nyoman Suyetna,HIV Program Manager of the WM Medika Main Clinic,Kerti Praja Foundation,revealed that several students attending the foundationS clinic have recently tested positive for HIV. “Several junior high school children have been found to be positive for HIV AIDS. so this education is important,” Suyetna stated.
Suyetna emphasized that early education is critical in providing a true understanding of the dangers and prevention methods related to HIV/AIDS. He further stressed the pivotal role parents play in monitoring and educating their children about the risks.
Beyond parental involvement, Suyetna underscored the necessity of government support to broaden HIV/AIDS education within schools, particularly for middle and upper-level students. This expanded curriculum is intended to ensure the younger generation possesses sufficient knowledge to safeguard themselves against infection. “This step is expected to provide children with a true understanding of the dangers and ways of prevention of HIV/AIDS,” he said.
