By Augustus Bill
The Association of People Living with Sickle Cell Disorder have beefed up their media arsenal of sensitization campaign by securing airtime with Unizik FM and entering a partnership with NOUN Bulletin, the official bulletin of National Open University, Abagana Study centre.
Speaking to the press during a media briefing, the coordinator of the Association, Aisha Edwards expressed joy at the homely gesture extended to the Association by Professor Stella Okunna, the Head of Department Mas Communication Department Unizik, who deemed it pertinent that the association be accorded airtime in the University’s community radio station to enable her continue an effective sensitization campaign for the sickle cell scourge.
Aisha Edward highlighted prof. Okunna, as a lady with numerous virtues, and one who takes a pragmatic approach to positive change. She appreciated her countless efforts in ensuring a voice for women in the society especially noble causes like this, as she is glad that the first female professor of Mass Communication in Nigeria would take such bold step in the positive direction ending the sickle cell scourge.
The coordinator expressed joy and optimism that they shall be kicking off with the radio station immediately it starts broadcasting from her new digital studio in the premises of the department, a project which was solely championed by Prof. Okunna to enable better learning and efficient practical knowledge for her students.
However, Aisha called out on the support of well-meaning Nigerians who believe in the ongoing positive campaign to extend their long hands of support through advert placements with the station to ensure that the radio programme on behalf of the sickle cell Association is sustained, as it requires a lot to sustain such educative and informative programme on radio.
In the same vein, the Association reached a consensual agreement with the management of NOUN bulletin to ensure that the sensitization message is circulated through the bulletin on the campus of National Open University.
Recounting on the recent exploits of the APLSCD, Aisha expressed optimism that the fight against sickle cell is yielding fruits and in no time the disorder would be a history in the country. She however beckoned on the support of the society at large, as much could be achieved if everyone pitch in to make it work.