MSH USAID Project: Systemic capacity building to HIV/AIDS implementing partners
STATUS: Current
PROJECT LEADER:Richter, L.M. (Prof Linda)
OTHER TEAM MEMBERS: De Kock, C.J. (Ms Cilna),
Khan, R (Mr Ridhwaan),
Joseph, PK (Mr Philip),
Makusha, T (Dr Tawanda), Naicker, SN (Dr Sara),
Nyawane, CL (Ms Lebo)DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBLE:
Public Health, Societies and Belonging (HSC)
Abstract
The External Portfolio Review Team noted that science in the field of HIV and AIDS
prevention and treatment is generally very strong, with the exception of policy and practice of
relevance to children affected and made vulnerable by the epidemic. Despite a very large
`grey literature?, all sources of information consulted by the Team indicate a serious shortage
of relevant applied science about children affected by HIV and AIDS, policy research, tests of
effectiveness, rigorous program evaluation and costing. Given the existing generally low level of scientific literacy of policy makers and program staff
working in the field of children generally, and HIV and AIDS specifically, it is proposed that a
developmental approach be adopted.
Journal articles will be reviewed, with the inclusion of the published abstract, together with an
interpretation of the merits of the study and its relevance for policy, programs and practice. In
addition to the reviews, each posting will also include a box, or other highlight, explaining an
aspect of scientific methodology, scientific standards and peer review brought to the fore in
the reviews.
