The Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA) has urged National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Batch C, Stream one corps members posted to Idemili South Local Government Area to know their HIV status, promote HIV prevention and raise awareness in their host communities.
The Executive Director of ANSACA, Dr. Nkem Okeke, gave the charge while joining the Mayor of Idemili South, Honourable Oluchukwu Ilogbenu, to welcome the corps members at the local government secretariat in Ojoto following their 21-day orientation exercise.
Okeke disclosed that HIV testing services are available free of charge at primary healthcare centres and general hospitals across Anambra State.
He encouraged the corps members to access HIV testing and counselling services, share accurate information, challenge misconceptions about the virus and promote an environment free of stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV.
The ANSACA boss attributed the state government’s continued support for HIV services to the commitment of Governor Chukwuma Soludo to reducing new HIV infections, preventing AIDS-related deaths and eliminating HIV-related stigma and discrimination.
He urged the corps members to leverage their positions as young graduates and community volunteers to increase HIV awareness and encourage residents to access prevention, testing, treatment and support services.
Okeke also charged the corps members to approach their national service with patriotism, dedication and a strong sense of responsibility, assuring them of the state government’s commitment to their welfare throughout their service year.
