The Durban University of Technology HIV/AIDS Centre’s continued and exceptional performance in continuing the fight against the spread of HIV/AIDS at the institution has earned it a special award from the Department of Higher Education and Training.The Centre Manager, Thobile Zulu took the initiative of presenting this award to DUT Vice Chancellor and Principal Professor Ahmed Bawa on Tuesday (22 January 2013).
The award was first conferred to the University during an HIV/AIDS conference held at the University of Cape Town in November last year (2012). DUT used this opportunity to exhibit their work as well as to promote the success of the Centre.
“We were among the universities who were given the award because we sustained the HIV/AIDS programme despite no longer being assisted by the European Union Funding. It was their (Department of Higher Education and Training) way of saying ‘thank you’,” said Zulu.
Speaking after receiving the award, Prof Bawa said he was ecstatic, saying he is proud. “It shows that as a University, we are recognised for the wonderful job that we have done. We cannot deal with HIV/AIDS alone; the students must participate as well,” he added.
Prof Bawa admitted that DUT still faces challenges in fighting the disease, but promised that it (DUT) would continue establishing ways to increase awareness.
Zulu also echoed Prof Bawa’s sentiments, adding that the number of students at the University getting tested for HIV had increased. “The students take the issue of HIV/AIDS seriously. Last year, were had about 8000 students who got tested for HIV. We will keep the programme going,” she said.
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