3rd HIV and AIDS in the Workplace Research Conference

The 3rd HIV and AIDS in the Workplace Research Conference, which takes place from 9 to 11 November in Johannesburg, will focus primarily on strengthening prevention interventions in the fight against HIV and AIDS by linking important prevention research to workplace practice.

An Exciting Programme
Prominent speakers at the Conference will include Prof Rachel Jewkes presenting her research on intimate partner violence, relationship power inequity and incidence of HIV infection in young women in SA. Professor Alan Whiteside will be exploring the concept of a 'sexual abstinence month', a unique behavioural intervention, already published in the South African Journal of HIV Medicine, which could make a significant contribution to global prevention efforts.

We will also hear more about the latest developments in the South African microbicide trials which received much publicity at the recent International AIDS Conference in Vienna. Researchers from this study will explain first-hand how this important scientific breakthrough could significantly reduce a woman's risk of being infected with HIV.

Peer Educator Participation
Given the important role that peer educators play in workplace programmes, a specific track has been set aside to better understand this important resource. Amongst other things, participants will:

• Receive feedback on a survey conducted with peer educators to determine the level of support they require
• Learn more about SABCOHA's national Peer Educator Support Programme which was developed in response to the feedback from peer educators
• Participate in skills building workshops which will include topics such as "Supporting Peer Educators: An Investigation into the Needs of Workplace Peer Educators" and "Myths, Science and Stories: Working with Peer Educators to Counter AIDS Myths", to name a few.

To encourage participation, peer educators have the opportunity to attend the conference at a reduced registration fee of R1 500.00 (excluding VAT, travel and accommodation, which are for your own arrangement). However, this special offer is limited to 200 peer educators and we are fast approaching the limit. Remaining spots will be allocated on a first come first serve basis.

Value-add for Conference Participants
For other Conference delegates, registration includes participation in all Conference sessions, access to the Conference Exhibition, as well as all meals and refreshments provided as part of the Conference.

In addition, small and medium-sized businesses who register for the Conference and are not currently members of SABCOHA will receive one year's free membership to the organisation, subject to completion of the membership registration form.

To find out more information or to register for the 3rd HIV and AIDS in the Workplace Research Conference please visit the Conference website at www.sabcoha.org/conference.