Addis Ababa, 2nd December 2016: Speaking at the HIV Prevention Workshop for the AU Youth, an event organized by the Medical and Health Services Directorate (MHSD) and Human Resources, Science and Technology (HRST) Directorate, Dr. Yankuba Kassama, Director of MHSD started his welcome remarks by expressing how honored he was to be part of the event and then welcomed everyone present.  

He went on to highlight to the youth why they are important to MHSD and HRST stating that the youth are the future of Africa and are the most energetic, most creative, most reproductive and most productive group of humanity. He continued by stating that “The MHSD has chosen the theme for this year’s World AIDS Day commemoration ‘Empower the Youth, fast track the end of AIDS’ to reflect the importance it attached to you and your health” 

He ended his welcome remarks by reemphasizing the importance of the event and advised the youth to pay attention and learn from the experienced resource persons and facilitators. 

Following the welcome remarks, the  Guest of Honor, Dr. Mahama Ouedraogo, Ag. Director HRST in his opening speech began by acknowledging and appreciating the young people of the Commission for investing their time and commitment to be present at the event. 

He continued by bringing to attention the fact that the year 2017 has been declared the year for harnessing the demographic dividend through investment in the youth and that one of the  4 key pillars of the demographic dividend is in fact, youth health and well-being.  

He urged the youth to take responsibility and to work hard to address the HIV pandemic and find ways to ease the suffering that HIV brings. “This workshop will provide you with key vital information, I will encourage you to ask any question you may have and use this opportunity as a learning platform for all,” he said.  

For Further Information contact:  

Dr. Mary Tapgun– Medical and Health Services Directorate/ African Union Commission/ Tel: +251-922481-559/ E-mail: tapgunm@africa-union.org    

For media inquiries contact:  

Afrah Thabit - Directorate of Information and Communication -African Union Commission - Tel:  +251 (0)911 200922- Email:  Thabitma@africa-union.org   

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