Vodafone ATH has reaffirmed its commitment to combating HIV and AIDS through a substantial donation of $32,000, aimed at funding a nationwide awareness and training initiative. This program is designed to enhance community-level education and prevention strategies regarding the virus.
The funding will facilitate a program executed by Australian Pacific Management Training (APMT), an established institution in Australia. APMT is tasked with training facilitators from all 14 provinces, who will subsequently return to their communities to foster awareness about HIV, advocate for prevention measures, and work to diminish the stigma surrounding the disease.
Assistant Minister for Health, Penioni Ravunawa, emphasized the timely nature of this initiative, pointing out that recent statistics indicate a worrying increase in HIV cases among the iTaukei population. He highlighted the importance of community-based education as a crucial element in curbing the spread of the virus, particularly in rural and village areas where access to reliable information is often limited.
Steve Chand, Chairman of the Higher Education Commission, expressed confidence in APMT’s capability to effectively execute the program, noting its recognized status and qualifications under the Commission.
Ivan Fong, the CEO of Vodafone ATH, identified HIV as a national crisis and reiterated the company’s dedication to supporting initiatives that safeguard lives and fortify community resilience.
This initiative is not just a significant financial contribution but also reflects a vital shift towards empowering local communities with the knowledge and tools necessary to address and prevent the spread of HIV and AIDS. By focusing on education and community engagement, the project strives to create a more informed and supportive environment for all.
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