South Africa and Mass Media

It is so interesting to see how the public reacts to a disease such as HIV/AID's. In the You Tube Video posted about Florida International University exploring South Africa I found it so interesting to see that it was the public that demanded for certain things to be done to save lives. It was interesting to hear how the public challenged the government to create a program that prevented mothers from spreading the disease to their children. This was done through education, mass media, and collaboration through the public.

It was interesting to see all of the education that is being done with the public, and that even though they know that HIV/AIDs is in an issue, many of them still don't understand a lot about the disease. They are unaware of the signs and symptoms, and have questions or doubts about the medications due to the side effects. As a result many people still practice unsafe habits and this is why education is so important. The public at times complains that they are always talking about this disease, but it is important for the researchers and journalists to continue educating the public. They have come a long way, the use of condoms has gone from 28% to about 70%, and that is a major accomplishment.

Now if South Africa can demand this type of change, than any government if they work together can help make changes within their own government.