HIV/AIDS can no longer be regarded only as a medical or public health issue. Studies have shown that HIV/AIDS must now be regarded as a contextual variable in its own right, as it influence extend well beyond the health and well-being on the individual child and affects all levels of the education system and sectors within society. As a contextual factor it does not only influence the effects of other contextual variables and process within education, but necessitates a redefinition of the role and goal of education and pupils’ engagement. This paper argues that is it paramount to draw on children’s understanding of the impact of AIDS on their lives, as well as their solutions in order to foster their agency. Using the bottom up, ‘draw and write’ methods, this research explores Botswana Primary school children’s perception of the impact of HIV/AIDS and their understanding of capabilities needed in order for them to not only protect themselves agains the disease but also become active agents change.

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