REPORTER: UCHE NDEKE
Members of National Youth Service Corps serving in Anambra state have been enjoined to find out their HIV status, promote prevention and raise awareness in their host communities.
The Executive Director of Anambra State AIDS Control Agency
ANSACA, Dr Nkem Okeke, gave the charge during an event at Ojoto to welcome NYSC Batch C, Stream 1 corps members posted to Idemili South Local Government Area ,after their 21-day orientation exercise.
Dr Okeke disclosed that HIV testing was available free of cost at primary healthcare facilities and general hospitals across the state.
He encouraged the youth corps members to access testing and counselling services, share verified information, challenge misconceptions and promote a stigma-free environment for people living with HIV.
Doctor Okeke attributed the state government’s sustained support for HIV services to the commitment of Governor Chukwuma Soludo towards reducing new infections, preventing AIDS-related deaths and eliminating HIV-related stigma and discrimination.
Dr Okeke further urged the corps members to leverage their positions as young graduates and community volunteers to promote HIV awareness and encourage residents to access prevention, testing, treatment and support services.
In a remark, the Mayor of Idemili South Local Government Area, Mr Oluchukwu Ilogbenu, urged the corps members to embrace their national assignment with patriotism, dedication and responsibility.
Correspondent Uche Ndeke reports that the Mayor assured them of his administration’s commitment to their welfare throughout their service year.
