keepin’ it REAL: Pilot test in Namibia
7th grade students in Windhoek, Namibia
Rachel Freeman, PhD
Flavio F. Marsiglia, PhD
Stephen S. Kulis, PhD
GCAHR, in collaboration with the University of Namibia, facilitated the implementation of a linguistically adapted pilot of the keepin’ it REAL (kiR) program in Windhoek, Namibia to assess its feasibility, acceptability and utility.
This pilot intends to determine whether the kiR program produces desired effects on substance use behaviors, attitudes and resistance skills. The data and results of the project will inform potential future cultural adaptations of the kiR program in Namibia as well as evaluating its acceptability and feasibility from the perspective of multiple institutions and researchers.
The study will use a mixed-methods approach to evaluate the implementation of the kiR substance use prevention program among 7th grade students in Windhoek, Namibia. The study will randomize schools to either receive the kiR intervention or serve as a control group. The intervention will comprise 10 interactive lessons delivered by trained teachers, incorporating role-play, videos, and discussions of the REAL strategies (Refuse, Explain, Avoid, Leave).
Data collection will include student surveys, teacher interviews, student focus groups, and fidelity observations. Quantitative measures will assess changes in knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to substance use, while qualitative data will capture perceptions of program feasibility, acceptability, and implementation challenges. Implementation is expected to start in Fall 2025.