In a year that has been dominated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the University of Papua New Guinea has not forgotten the threat of the HIV/AIDS epidemic that threatens the health of quite a few of our young men and women. The University acknowledges World Aids Day and joins the rest of Papua New Guinea and every country around the world in emphasizing the need for awareness, to avoid and prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS in our communities.
The University’s pragmatic approaches to both the COVID-19 pandemic and the HIV/AIDS epidemic are the same, as they emphasize aspects of personal safety, hygiene, and personal health awareness issues, and the need to practise sound preventive measures. As much as the University’s policies relate to our students and our staff, the emphasis also encompasses their interaction with other members of the wider communities, some of whom may not be aware of the need to practise personal health, hygiene and safety.
The practice of a healthy lifestyle is a great need in our communities. It does not matter where we live or where we go, there is no place in our lives for the attitude of, “It won’t happen to me!” Either of these viruses does not discriminate between any members of the community. It is the people who will be able to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and HIV/AIDS. This awareness and prevention starts with all of us who have access to the medical information and have the correct attitude which will see us remaining healthy, vibrant and virus free.
Public Relations Unit
The University of Papua New Guinea