Every year on December 1, the World AIDS Day is commemorated to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and to demonstrate international solidarity in the face of the pandemic and since 2011, the theme for World AIDS Day has been ‘Shared Responsibility in Strengthening Results for an AIDS-Free Generation.’ Bearing in mind that young people are critical to the fight against HIV/AIDS, Action Health Incorporated (AHI) commemorated the day with 114 young people from secondary schools around the AHI Youth Centre in Lagos on December 6, 2013 and used the opportunity to offer HIV prevention education and testing services.
The information session conducted by programme staff addressed the modes of transmission and how to prevent infection as well as issues of stigma and discrimination against people living with the virus. Participants had the opportunity to ask questions and clarify misconceptions, free HIV counselling and testing was available for those who wanted to know their HIV status while red ribbons, educational/promotional materials (pamphlets and t-shirts with HIV prevention messages) were distributed to all participants.
Time was also set aside for games, quizzes, energizers, choreography and even drama skits. Leading the quiz competition were Immaculate Heart Senior Secondary School (1st position), Mainland Senior Secondary School (2nd position) and Angus Memorial Senior High School (3rd position). Other schools that participated are Shomolu Senior High School, Jibowu Junior High School and Morocco Junior High School. Prizes were also awarded to the winners of the quiz and dance competitions.
You must be logged in to post a comment.