DECEMBER 2005 — Several cities in Jordan commemorated the International day of AIDS; the official celebration took place in Aqaba on Thursday, December 1, 2005. The event was organized by the ministry of health in collaboration with FHI and under the sponsorship of USAID. Several governmental officials, USAID, and a student gave speeches, followed by an open discussion with the audience. Short documentaries and TV spots about HIV/AIDS and its means of prevention were broadcasted to the audience during the discussion.

Several activities took place around the country and FHI -- with support from USAID, UNICEF, and WHO -- designed and published posters, brochures and pens that were distributed. Pop up banners, stage banners and calendars were circulated to all medical centers over the country in addition to all celebration centers in the kingdom. All materials carried the theme "Don't turn your back on HIV/AIDS, keep the promise."

At the University of Jordan, the commemoration involved plays, games, monologues and quizzes. Approximately 1400 students attended the festival and had a positive reaction to the activities. Dr. Inam Khalaf and Dr. Basma Khraisat held a discussion with the students about the University's social service center role and activities on HIV/AIDS prevention. The Head of the University Dr. Huneiti and FHI Country Director Dr. Khraisat distributed certificates to students who participated in the peer education program.

In the city of Irbid; the commemoration was organized by Jordan Scout Youth group with support from FHI. The Municipality of Irbid designated a road as "cultural street" for the distribution of posters and flyers. Other activities included the narration of one PLWHA's story, a theatrical sketch and an open discussion with the audience.