May 18, 2005
For Immediate Release
For more information:
Megan Laurie
(801) 863-7149
Written by:
Kimberly Jones
(801) 863-8504
Gov. Huntsman Supports UVSC Student in AIDS Awareness Month
Governor Jon Huntsman Jr. declared April as “Aids Awareness Month” in Utah at a proclamation signing April 28. Headed by UVSC student and Uganda native David Ssejinja, the governor declared, “Every day of delay means 8,000 more AIDS-related deaths in Africa and another 14,000 people infected, the Ssejinja Children’s Foundation urges a call to action: to extend a rendering hand to the cries of those in desperate need of an improved quality of life.”
“Having [the declaration] signed by the governor creates a great awareness to the people in Utah about the aids epidemic in Africa,” Ssejinja said.
In 1999, Ssejinja formed a non-profit charity organization, Ssejinja Children’s Foundation, in an effort to help children in Uganda with the building of schools and water wells, personal items such as clothing, books and food and establish AIDS Awareness programs in villages.
“AIDS is a global issue,” said Nancy Cannon, a counselor in TRIO student support at UVSC who is working with Ssejinja. “It can, and will eventually affect, all of us if not taken seriously. It is imperative that we educate and raise awareness in Utah”
Ssejinja organized the foundation prior to enrolling at UVSC in 2002. He plans to graduate next year with a bachelor’s degree in history and political science. After receiving his bachelor’s degree, Ssejinja plans to earn a master’s degree with the ultimate goal to return to Uganda permanently.
“I will go back home to my country to help out,” Ssejinja said. “Especially to help the children.”
Cannon, along with other UVSC employees involved in Ssejinja’s foundation, will hold up their end in Utah. They are planning a reception with the governor for September and hope to raise $30,000 to bring a medical clinic, medical supplies and medicine to the people in Uganda.
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