Anambra State is set to mark this year’s World AIDS Day with a week-long programme of events, including the state’s first International HIV Science Symposium.
The Executive Director and Project Manager of the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA), Dr. Nkem Okeke who disclosed this in Awka during a radio program, said the this is part of efforts towards strengthening HIV prevention, treatment and policy response.
He explained that the programme would bring together local and international stakeholders to share knowledge and strengthen HIV response.
According to Dr Okeke, delegates from the international HIV community are expected to participate in the activities, alongside HIV experts, researchers, policymakers, programme managers, development partners and representatives from different states.
“Representatives from participating states are expected to present interventions that have produced results in their communities, providing an opportunity for stakeholders to learn from successful approaches and consider how they can be adapted to local realities”, he noted
Dr Okeke also explained that a major focus of the symposium would be translating scientific evidence and programme experiences into practical policies and sustainable interventions that can improve HIV conditions.
He noted that the gathering would enable stakeholders examine persistent challenges in the HIV response, discuss emerging prevention strategies and identify opportunities for stronger collaboration among government institutions, health professionals, communities and development partners.
The ANSACA Director further intimated that the initiative would help deepen partnerships and encourage greater use of research, innovation and shared experiences in shaping HIV policies and programmes, particularly efforts towards preventing new infections and improve the wellbeing of persons living with HIV.
Moreover, Dr Okeke emphasised the importance of moving beyond discussions to practical action, pointing out that scientific knowledge and lessons from successful interventions should translate into policies and programmes that respond to the needs of individuals, families and communities.
