Although the focus on HIV/Aids is no longer as it used to be, there is still a significant need to know about the disease and take the proper precautions to deal with it. This belief guides the University Health Services, hence its focus on empowering the students with the right knowledge about the problem. Under the guidance of the University Health Services staff, on 11 June 2025, peer educators commemorated the Candlelight Memorial. Candlelight Memorial is a global event that was started in 1983 by People Living with HIV (PLWH) to remember many lives that were lost to AIDS. It is an opportunity to honour those who dedicated their lives to helping people living with and affected by HIV. Candlelight Memorial serves as a global platform for solidarity and a reminder of the ongoing need to combat HIV and AIDS. This year it was commemorated under the theme: “We Remember. We Rise. We Lead” This theme emphasises the importance of remembering those lost to AIDS, and those that are rising to meet challenges, and those that are leading the way towards a future free from HIV and AIDS.
Health Promoter in the Health Services, Sister Bongiwe Sithole, said the event was attended by Patrick Mdletshe, Head of Community Programmes: Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA) UKZN, and Ntokozo Mkhize, an HIV ambassador and activist. The two guests highlighted that young people today have a unique opportunity to take control of their health by accessing Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), unlike previous generations who were born with HIV or lived during a time when treatment options were limited. “Today’s youth can make informed choices about their
health. As a community, we need to empower them to make the most of these life-changing options,” said Sister Sithole.