The Convention on the Rights of the Child seeks to protect learners from discrimination based on HIV status in several ways:
1. Non-discrimination: The Convention states that all children have the right to be free from discrimination of any kind, including discrimination based on their or their parents' HIV status. This means that children with HIV should be treated the same as any other child and should not face discrimination or stigmatization in schools.
2. Access to education: The Convention recognizes that education is a fundamental right of all children and that children with HIV should have equal access to education. This means that schools should not discriminate against children with HIV and should provide them with the same educational opportunities as other children.
3. Health and medical care: The Convention recognizes the right of children to the highest attainable standard of health and to access to medical care and treatment. This means that children with HIV should have access to the medical care and treatment they need to manage their condition and stay healthy, including access to antiretroviral therapy (ART).
4. Privacy and confidentiality: The Convention recognizes the right of children to privacy and confidentiality, including with respect to their health status. This means that schools and teachers should respect the privacy of children with HIV and should not disclose their HIV status without their consent, except in certain limited circumstances where disclosure may be necessary to protect the child or others from harm.
In summary, the Convention on the Rights of the Child seeks to protect learners from discrimination based on HIV status by promoting non-discrimination, equal access to education, access to health care and treatment, and the right to privacy and confidentiality. These protections are essential for ensuring that children with HIV can participate fully in school and society without fear of discrimination or stigmatization.