University of Ghana students have expressed great concern over a startling revelation made by the Ghana Aids Commission on the alarming rise of HIV/AIDS cases, where it was disclosed that approximately 50 new HIV infections occur daily in Ghana, with a significant portion affecting individuals aged 15 to 49.
The announcement was made during the 2023 release of national and sub-national HIV and AIDS estimates and projections already raising health concerns nationwide.
According to the report, there are currently 334,095 people living with HIV/AIDS in Ghana, among them 17,550 children under 15. The past year alone saw 17,774 new HIV infections, including 1,698 children under 15 and 16,076 adults over 15. While there is a decline in new infections, AIDS-related deaths, and HIV prevalence, the rate of reduction is insufficient to meet national targets.
Speaking to UniversNews, the students were very concerned for their peers who engage in indiscriminate and unprotected sexual activities, without knowing the HIV status of their sexual partners.
“It doesn’t really scare me because I’m abstinent. I’m scared for the youth out there who can’t control themselves and who do not check the HIV status of their sexual partners.”
The students are not just alarmed; they are also proactive in suggesting solutions. A common thread in their responses is the need for comprehensive education and awareness.
“More education. It should be introduced into our curriculum. There should be policies about this, entrenched even into tertiary rules and regulations,” one student emphasized.
This sentiment underscores the belief that integrating HIV/AIDS education into school curriculums could play a pivotal role in curbing new infections.
Another student echoed this call for education, particularly at the high school level.
“It’s a worry because your individual risk of also getting the virus is very high, whether you are promiscuous or not. I honestly feel like sex education should be implemented into the high school curriculum. Lots of these high school kids get into sexual relationships without knowing anything about what it entails and how to protect themselves.”
Beyond education, some students highlighted socio-economic factors contributing to the crisis, suggesting the need for more productivity opportunities for the youth.
“The provision of more jobs could help combat it. The youth have too much free time, and they end up engaging in sexual activities.”
The concerns and suggestions from the University of Ghana students reflect a broader understanding of the multifaceted nature of the HIV/AIDS crisis.
While recognizing that individual behavior plays a role, systemic solutions involving education, employment and policy reforms are crucial in combating the rising epidemic.
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Story by: Frimpong Collins | univers.ug.edu.gh
