Story number 5 for 25 Apr 2003

(South Africa)–And finally, Christian educators believe they could be the difference in the HIV/AIDS crisis in Southern Africa. Ken Smitherman is with the Association of Christian Schools International. He says it only makes sense the Christian education could be the difference. “Health and safety issues, regarding the HIV virus need to be a part of the program for cutting back on this tremendous disease and so, we have a program really focused to strengthen programs there in the Christian school movement.” Children could come to Christ in large numbers. However, funding is needed. He says widespread education is needed to see the disease curtailed. “To broaden this education opportunity it takes financial resources and so we are exploring those issues right now. It is just a huge undertaking and one that is very challenging.”