By Zainab Bakare
According to research, Nigeria faced significant health challenges in 2021, with 1.9 million people living with HIV, affecting women and children the most. Children up to age 14, who were positive for HIV, equalled 170 thousand. Additionally, hypertension cases exceeded 28 million in 2020, rising from four million in 1995. Hypertension poses risks of heart disease, kidney issues, and strokes due to population growth and lifestyle changes.
In line with addressing these health concerns, the Junior Chamber International Nigeria, University of Benin (JCIN UNIBEN), headed by the President Miss Michelle Oluwaseyi Fayeun, is hosting a HEALTH FEST on Saturday, February 24, 2024, kicking off with a campus rally on Friday, February 23, 2024. The event contains various activities, including check-ups for HIV, Blood Pressure, Blood glucose, Dental health, body mass index, H pylori test, and health talks from experienced Health Education speakers.
READ ALSO: Days Later, UNIBEN yet to Recover From Impact of JCIN UNIBEN Clean-up day
A 300-level Political Science student, Lysa Ojoka, said in an interview that although she has not been involved in any health event on campus and she definitely looks forward to this. She further said, “With the way the CleanUp exercise was handled, I expect a lot of excitement and fun activities from the Health Fest.”
Another student, a 200 level English and Literature, Precious, in an interview with ACJ UNIBEN, making reference to the CleanUp exercise previously organised by JCIN UNIBEN, said, “It was a really fun experience, and also a calorie-burning exercise, I must say.” Precious anticipates the upcoming event and would gladly participate in this programme, as she is enthusiastic to inform others about it.
In appreciation of the upcoming Health Fest, she said, “I would like to say a big thank you to JCIN UNIBEN chapter, for the beautiful experiences and moments they are creating in the University of Benin.”
This “Health Fest” aligns with JCIN UNIBEN’s commitment to community well-being, as demonstrated in their recent CleanUp exercise done on February 3, 2024, in collaboration with other reputable organisations within and outside the University of Benin, including; Mat-Ice Benin, and the Association of Campus Journalists, University of Benin (ACJ UNIBEN).
All University of Benin students are encouraged to participate in this Health Fest event to promote a healthier lifestyle and contribute to community well-being.
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