Samoa AIDS Foundation talking to youth
12 July 2009

"SAMOA AIDS FOUNDATION SESSION ON HIV/AIDS AT APTC"

On Thursday 09th July 2009 the Samoa AIDS Foundation conducted a orientation briefing on HIV/AIDS and STI at the APTC (Asia Pacific Technical College at Vaivase. This session was lead by Resitara Apa (Poula Theatre Director) and Faleafa Tui Tekiu (VCCT - Project Officer) and the SAF Peer Educators.

There were 30 new students participants consisting of, 1 from PNG, 6 from Tonga and 23 local Samoan students. The main purpose of this briefing orientation was to create awareness amongst the students about stigma and discrimination of those living with HIV, prevention of invention and increase of the knowledge about the basic facts of HIV and STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections). The outcome of this workshop is to enable the APTC Students, to equip themselves from being infected and affected by HIV, and also being inform on the modes of transmission. This is an ongoing service by the Samoa AIDS Foundation to target youth in schools as part of their Community Outreach. SAF acknowledges the support of the staff of APTC.

"TALKING TO YOUTH ON HIV/AIDS/STI: YOUTH VISIONING 2 REFRESHER TRAINING"

The Samoa AIDS Foundation Community Educators held its second Refresher Training on Friday 10th July 2009, last week at the Samoa SAFe Clinic (VCCT) Conference Room.

The main purpose of this training was to refresh, revitalize, and build the capacity of the Peer Educators in presenting, facilitating, disseminating information on HIV/AIDS and STIs.

This workshop help build the confidence of the participants in sharing their knowledge on issues of sexuality and safe sex practices.

Ms Natalia Pereira the YV2 Coordinator from UNESCO, sponsors for the Youth Visioning Project gave the opening speech and highlighted the objectives on Youth Visioning.

The Samoa AIDS Foundation Director Mr. Ken Moala welcomed the participants from the Samoa Red Cross Society, Samoa Family Heath Assoc. and the Division of Youth – Ministry Women, Community and Social Development.

The Co-ordinator of the Refresher Training , was Resitara Apa the Poula Theatre Director, assisted by Ana Fepuleai, Vester Fido, Iosia Tiatia and Avau Memea.

The YV Team Samoa would like to thank the participants and UNESCO for the project funding. The outcome of this Refresher Training was very successful and inspiring.

Regards,

Community Educators for Samoa AIDS Foundation
Vester Fido, Ana Fepuleai, Iosia Tiatia, Avau Memea,

Download the article posted on the Samoa Observer

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