The Voice (Francistown)
6 May 2008
The students of the Gaborone Institute of Professional Studies (GIPS) have taken on an initiative to combat the HIV/AIDS pandemic. This time around, they are targeting the second city of Francistown with a big bash scheduled for June.
With a new approach that hopes to draw in a larger crowd of youth, Inter GIPS Bash is designed to educate and promote socialization between the students and the Francistown community. The main message would be against the abuse of alcohol and its consequences amongst the Youth with a major focus on HIV/AIDS.
"The event's theme is: Get Real, Get Right, drink responsibly AIDS is a reality, said a member of the SRC and entertainment committee, Emmanuel Masingizane.
Masingizane added that, "We the GIPS students say, if you can't stop drinking, drink responsibly and if you are sexually active, be wise and take care of yourself."
The SRC asserts that it is their responsibility to not only promote positive self-image among students and the community at large but also continually make a lasting impression.
Masingizane reminded the student community that "It is us who can bring change, together we believe, together we can make a difference."
Different organisations dealing with HIV/AIDS matters would be on the field to share their learned facts about the virus. YOHO would be there for guidance and correct information on the AIDS pandemic. BONASO and other parties would focus on the testing for cholesterol, blood pressure and cancer awareness. Tebelopele would do the voluntary HIV testing and counseling whilst the National Blood Transfusion would be there for blood donations.
All GIPS campuses - Lobatse, Gaborone and Francistown - would come together to ensure the success of this event, which will be held at the Francistown Galo Mall.
The second phase of the show will be held at Francistown club during the night. The whole idea is to continue preaching the message in relation to the theme and also practice the preaching of that day.
As entertainment such as music is a common crowd puller among youth, music will be the main form of entertainment that day, although there will be other art performances, such as drama to spice the occasion. Proposed artists to perform at the bash include Stagga, Dj Bunz, Dj Sly of RB2 and Dj Anthen.
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