Students of the Microbiology Department of Skyline University Nigeria (SUN), have led initiatives to throw awareness about the importance of World AIDS Day. This year (2021), the event with the theme, “End Inequalities. End AIDS” was planned and organized by the students with special features, including presentations by the students, drama, posters competition, rally and voluntary HIV Tests for both students and staff of the University.
The World AIDS Day, which is held every 1st December, drew a lot of attention on the University’s Campus, given the students’ participation in highlighting the growing inequalities in access to essential HIV services. The students were actively supported by the Head of Microbiology Department, Dr. Sanjoy Kumar Pal, amongst other faculty, notably Ms. Hafsah Muhammad Ahmad, Abdulsalam Mustapha and Ms. Aisha Turaki.
Speaking on the event, Dr. Sanjoy encouraged the students for their significant progress in joining the world on such an auspicious occasion, stating that things like disparity and disregard for human lives are amongst the things that gives HIV an edge. Ms. Hafsah, one of the active supporters of the event also made an important contribution, advising the students on the potential of organizing a rally, especially one that confronts the inequality that drives AIDS.
While making his remarks at the event, Prof. Ajith Kumar V.V, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, who applauded the students for hosting such a life-changing event, stated that HIV remains a major public health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. He added that it is our collective responsibility to support people with the illness. “Let us do what we can to support the community to eradicate these illnesses”, he said.
The event was closed with a rally by the students on the awareness of AIDS.
