North east region: The Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC), in collaboration with the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), has successfully conducted HIV prevention and control training for newly recruited officers of the Ghana National Fire Service. This initiative took place at the Wungu Fire Service Training School in the North East Region, marking a significant step towards integrating HIV education into youth development and security service programs.

According to Ghana News Agency, this training is a result of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on June 18, 2025, between GAC and YEA. Dr. Kharmacelle Prosper Akanbong, Director-General of GAC, and Mr. Malik Basintale, CEO of YEA, spearheaded this collaboration aimed at equipping the youth with essential knowledge on HIV prevention and control.

Mr. Nuhu Musah, Northern Regional Manager of the GAC, addressed the participants, highlighting the importance of this training as part of a broader national effort. The session included 470 recruits from the Savannah, North East, and Northern Regions, as well as officers from the Fire Service. Topics covered ranged from basic facts about HIV and AIDS, modes of transmission, prevention strategies, treatment, and human rights, to the national HIV response framework.

Mr. Musah stressed the continued vulnerability of youth to HIV infections due to factors like unprotected sex and drug use. He advised on safe practices such as using condoms, mutual fidelity, and regular testing every three months. Additionally, participants learned about recent advances in HIV prevention, including Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis.

The training also emphasized the U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable) concept, explaining that individuals with an undetectable viral load cannot transmit the virus. Mr. Musah highlighted the availability and effectiveness of HIV treatment across the country and discussed legal protections under the GAC Act 938 against discrimination based on HIV status.

Assistant Divisional Officer Grade 1, Mr. Charles Adumuah, representing the Training School Commandant, praised the initiative as timely and impactful, suggesting it should be replicated in other security and service training institutions.