Oprah Winfrey Takes AIDS Test, Offers Them to New School's Students in South Africa

On Saturday at her new Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa, Oprah Winfrey underwent an HIV test to help persuade students to do the same. "To be a great leader, you must be of sound mind, body and spirit," Winfrey told the girls. "Part of leadership is having the courage to demonstrate true action. Today I have taken the test to demonstrate why it's so important."

Winfrey's test results will remain confidential, as will those of the students. A statement issued on behalf of the Oprah Winfrey Foundation said HIV tests will be voluntary, require parental consent, and the results will not affect students' standing at the school. Many of the girls come from families affected by HIV/AIDS.

Winfrey spoke to the families about the importance of routine health examinations for students. She stressed that no girl would be forced to undergo testing. In addition, she offered free testing and antiretroviral treatment to students' family members and caregivers.

Around 5.4 million South Africans have HIV/AIDS. A November report by the Actuarial Society of South Africa and the Medical Research Council found an estimated 950 people died each day from AIDS-related causes in 2006, while another 1,400 were infected daily for a total of 530,000 new infections last year.

Winfrey opened the academy last Tuesday at a star-studded ceremony that featured former South African President Nelson Mandela, who had encouraged her to start the school. More than 3,500 girls from across the country applied for the academy, which will eventually have 450 students. Admission requirements include both academic and leadership potential as well as a monthly household income of no more than 5,000 rand ($787 US).

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