The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, has reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to strengthening HIV/AIDS prevention and response, expressing strong interest in the activities of the University of Calabar HIV/AIDS Critical Mass Committee (UNICAL HIV/AIDS CMC).
He made this known when members of the committee paid him a working visit at the Council Chambers of the university.
Prof. Offiong stressed the need to accord the initiative the prominence it deserves, noting that increased visibility would enhance the effectiveness of the committee’s programmes and improve the overall well-being of both the university community and the larger society.
According to him, a robust HIV response framework within the institution would boost awareness, encourage healthier lifestyles, and help reduce the stigma associated with the disease.
The Vice-Chancellor commended members of the committee for their dedication and humanitarian service, emphasizing that participation in such a critical body demands genuine passion and commitment.
Describing the committee’s work as largely humanitarian and comparable to that of a non-profit organisation, he urged members to remain focused and steadfast in their mission.
“I hope that everyone here is truly passionate about this cause, as it requires commitment beyond personal gain. I congratulate you all and commend your involvement in the fight against HIV/AIDS,” he said.
Earlier, the Programme Coordinator of the committee, Prof. Clement I. Mboto, congratulated the Vice-Chancellor on his emergence and wished him a successful tenure.
He described the visit as both symbolic and informative, explaining that the delegation was at the Vice-Chancellor’s office to formally introduce the committee, outline its relevance, and seek institutional support for its activities.
Prof. Mboto noted that the committee operates as a multi-stakeholder body comprising academic and non-teaching staff, students, the University Health Centre, the Counselling Unit, and relevant civil society partners.
He added that the committee’s core mandate is to provide a coordinated institutional response to HIV/AIDS within the university environment.
With the Vice-Chancellor’s support, he said, the committee would be better positioned to revitalise its programmes, deepen engagement among staff and students, and align with national expectations for HIV prevention and response in tertiary institutions.
