1. The Western Cape Education Department's HIV/AIDS Unit wishes to bring to the attention of all learners, employees and parents that 1 December 2010 is International World AIDS Day. Started on the 1 December 1988, World AIDS Day is important in increasing awareness, combating prejudice and discrimination, and improving education.
2. The theme for 2010 is "Universal Access and Human Rights". Our political leaders have pledged to work towards universal access to HIV and AIDS treatment, prevention and care, recognising these as fundamental human rights. Violations against human rights fuel the spread of HIV, putting orphans, vulnerable children, drug- and alcohol abusers and the youth in our country particularly at risk.
3. According to the National Youth Risk Survey, conducted by the Medical Research Council in 2008, 37.5% of our learner population (Grades 8 to 11) have engaged in sexual activity, 19% became pregnant, 17.7 % have had a child, 8.2% have had abortions, 4.4% have had sexually transmitted infections. In addition, 41% use alcohol and 9.3% were offered or have bought drugs, both of which are associated with risky sexual behaviour.
4. For the above reasons, the WCED and its HIV/AIDS Unit expresses concern about learners involved in such risky behaviour, and applauds those who have made responsible choices for their own well-being.
5. World AIDS Day provides an opportunity for all learners, teachers and communities to take action and ensure that human rights are protected and that the HIV/Aids- associated focus is on the promoting of physical- and psychological safety, prevention, treatment and care, and the elimination of stigma, discrimination, sexual harassment and abuse.
6. The Red Ribbon is an international symbol of AIDS awareness that is worn by people all year round, and particularly on World AIDS Day, to demonstrate care and concern about HIV/AIDS and to remind others of the need for their support and commitment.
7. As stated by the Minister of Basic Education, Ms A Motshekga: ". as a system, we can only succeed if each school, as a unit, succeeds. Let us all strive towards each school becoming a supportive environment within which every learner and educator can flourish ...".
8. The WCED wishes to thank all principals, teachers, learners and parents who, throughout 2010, have shown their support and commitment to fighting the HIV scourge that is plaguing our country.
9. You are once again encouraged to focus on World AIDS Day and to use your enthusiasm and creativity to develop programmes and events for 1 December 2010, World AIDS Day.


SIGNED: JH LYNERS
HEAD: EDUCATION
DATE: 2010:11:26