Management of HIV and AIDS in the Workplace

(Capacity Building Course)

1. Introduction

HIV and AIDS continue to affect millions globally, with profound implications for workforce productivity, health, and rights. Workplaces can play a critical role in preventing the spread of HIV, supporting affected employees, and reducing stigma. This training program is designed to empower employers, managers, and workplace representatives with knowledge and tools to implement comprehensive HIV and AIDS management strategies that are inclusive, rights-based, and aligned with national and international labour standards.

 

2. Objectives

By the end of the training, participants will be able to:

• Understand the impact of HIV and AIDS on the workforce and workplace operations
• Design and implement workplace HIV and AIDS policies and programs
• Promote non-discrimination, confidentiality, and support for affected employees
• Strengthen awareness, prevention, and education initiatives at the workplace
• Build systems for managing occupational exposure and linking to health services
• Align workplace responses with national HIV strategies and labor standards

 

3. Target Group

This training is ideal for:

• Human Resource Managers
• Occupational Health and Safety Officers
• Line Managers and Supervisors
• Trade Union Representatives
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Coordinators
• Workplace Wellness Program Coordinators
• NGO and Government staff involved in workplace HIV interventions
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Officers

 

4. Course Duration

• Duration: 4 weeks (60–64 contact hours)
• Format: In-person / Online / Hybrid
• Schedule: 4 sessions per week, 4 hours per session
• Methodology: Interactive lectures, case studies, policy simulations, role plays, and group work

 

5. Course Content

Module 1: Understanding HIV and AIDS

• Biology of HIV; stages of infection; treatment and prevention
• Myths, facts, and global statistics

Module 2: The Impact of HIV and AIDS in the Workplace

• Effects on productivity, absenteeism, and labor costs
• Legal, social, and economic implications

Module 3: National and International Legal Frameworks

• ILO Code of Practice on HIV/AIDS and the World of Work
• National HIV workplace policies and labor laws

Module 4: Developing a Workplace HIV and AIDS Policy

• Policy elements, consultation processes, and implementation steps
• Sample policies and tools

Module 5: Prevention Strategies in the Workplace

• Behavior change communication (BCC), peer education, condom distribution
• Partnering with health services

Module 6: HIV Testing and Counseling (HTC)

• Promoting voluntary testing and linkage to care
• Confidentiality and informed consent in workplace settings

Module 7: Addressing Stigma and Discrimination

• Legal protection and rights of employees
• Creating a stigma-free and inclusive workplace

Module 8: Gender, HIV, and the Workplace

• Gender-based vulnerabilities and interventions
• Supporting women and LGBTQ+ employees

Module 9: Supporting Employees Living with HIV

• Reasonable accommodation, treatment adherence, referrals
• Workplace support systems and return-to-work programs

Module 10: Occupational Safety and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)

• Workplace exposure risks and prevention strategies
• PEP protocols and emergency response

Module 11: Monitoring and Evaluation of Workplace Programs

• Indicators, reporting systems, and program review
• Tools for continuous improvement

Module 12: Workplace Education and Communication Techniques

• Designing awareness campaigns and training sessions
• Utilizing peer educators and media

Module 13: Partnerships and External Linkages

• Collaborating with health departments, NGOs, and donors
• Referrals and joint initiatives

Module 14: Resource Mobilization and Budgeting

• Allocating resources for program sustainability
• Fundraising and grant proposal basics

Module 15: HIV and AIDS in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

• Integrating HIV response in CSR strategies
• Impact reporting and community outreach

Module 16: Capstone Group Exercise – Drafting a Workplace HIV Program

• Teams develop and present a tailored HIV and AIDS workplace plan
• Feedback from facilitators and peers

 

6. Expected Outcomes

Upon completing this training, participants will:

• Possess a solid understanding of HIV and AIDS and workplace implications
• Be able to draft and implement workplace policies and action plans
• Promote a supportive and stigma-free workplace culture
• Lead HIV prevention and awareness activities
• Manage employee health and productivity related to HIV and AIDS
• Monitor and evaluate program impact effectively

 

7. Certification

Certificate of Completion

Awarded to participants who:

• Attend at least 85% of sessions
• Actively participate in activities and discussions
• Complete individual and group assignments

Professional Certificate in HIV and AIDS Workplace Management

Awarded to those who:

• Submit and present a comprehensive workplace HIV management plan
• Pass a final assessment or policy presentation
• Demonstrate practical skills in program design and leadership

Certificates may be endorsed by the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Labor, ILO, UNAIDS, or relevant professional bodies.