 "Photo: N/A")
In 2001 a survey of about 300 NCCU students revealed that a large majority of students were sexually active, but that fewer than half used protection half the time or less, and that fewer than half thought they were at risk for HIV or STIs.
The survey also indicated that a mentoring approach to promoting safe sex appealed to students. That led to the birth of Project SAFE — Save A Fellow Eagle.
The organization is now celebrating its ten-year anniversary with "Project Safe Week" March 21-26, with events geared toward HIV education and prevention.
"Project SAFE's mission is to educate NCCU students and the Durham community on HIV/STI awareness and to prevent the spread of HIV, AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases on campus," said Shawn Swinnie, president of Project SAFE.
Yesterday free iTests for HIV and STIs were given at Baynes Residential Hall. Future tests will be provided throughout April in residential halls and at Campus Crossings.
On Saturday, Wade Banner of K97.5 will host a "Sex Ed" party.
HIV is a leading cause of death for African Americans. African Americans account for only 13 percent of the U.S. population, but they account for about half of all people living with HIV/AIDS, according to the Web site Kaletra.
"African American rates are so much higher because of the lack of access to health care and education," said Denechia Powell, Project SAFE adviser and administrative support associate in the department of student health and counseling services.
She said people who don't know they are infected are in danger of spreading the disease.
More information is available at dpowel23@nccu.edu.
is a member of the 
Be the first to comment on this article! Log in to Comment
You must be logged in to comment on an article. Not already a member? Register now