HIV Anti-Stigma Campaign on University Campuses

Dear Donors,

We sincerely thank the donors who have supported the HIV Anti-Stigma Campaign on University Campuses project. Your support reflects concern for the wellbeing of young people who face fear and misinformation surrounding HIV. At this stage, however, the funds available are still too limited to begin organizing activities across the universities targeted in this campaign.

Across many Nigerian university campuses, misconceptions about HIV remain common. Some students avoid testing because they fear rejection from friends or classmates. Others believe incorrect information about how the virus spreads or assume that only certain groups are affected. Because of these beliefs, many students hesitate to discuss HIV openly or seek medical advice.

This silence can delay early diagnosis and treatment for students who may be living with the virus. Fear of stigma may also discourage those affected from sharing their status or asking for help. As a result, misunderstanding continues to circulate among students, creating an environment where stigma and misinformation persist.

This campaign aims to reach 60 universities and engage thousands of students through activities that share accurate information about HIV. Programs will include campus drama performances, student discussions, printed educational materials, and voluntary HIV testing opportunities. Trained peer educators will lead conversations that encourage openness and respectful attitudes toward those living with HIV.

Through these efforts, students will gain clearer understanding of HIV prevention, testing, and care. They will also learn how stigma harms individuals and discourages people from seeking treatment.

The kindness already shown toward this initiative is deeply appreciated. Every expression of support strengthens the effort to create safer and more informed campus environments. With continued encouragement from people who care about student health, this campaign can begin reaching young people across universities and replace fear with knowledge and understanding.

Sincerely,

Joy Ojochogwu Etubi
Project Leader