President Mwai Kibaki has asked the youth to play an active role in sensitizing their peers about the dangers of HIV/AIDS. Noting that HIV/AIDS has become the single biggest threat facing the society especially the youth, President Kibaki urged them to behave responsibly to avoid falling victim to the AIDS virus. The President was speaking Tuesday at State House Nairobi where he presented Gold Awards to 349 young Kenyans for outstanding service in the community. During the occasion, the president called for a minute silence in remembrance of Hassanali Ratansi of Ratansi Education Trust for his 36-year service to the president's Award Scheme. The late Ratansi passed away in November 2003. The Head of State, at the same time, urged leaders at all levels in the community to provide credible role models for the youth to emulate. He emphasized that proper socialization of the youth was not the responsibility of parents and teachers alone but the whole community had a role to play. Addressing those who received certificates for their achievements in various fields, the President advised them to use their knowledge and skills for the benefit of the society. Noting that many institutions were not participating in the President's Award Scheme, President Kibaki called for more efforts to widen participation and ensure many young people benefit from the scheme. He said it was important for the youth to participate in the programme as it was an empowerment initiative that helped them to use their leisure time productively to acquire skills, take part in community service projects or undertake expeditions to learn more about the environment they lived in. One of the key objectives of the President's Award Scheme, the Head of State observed, was to enhance the development of the young people into responsible citizens. He said through the scheme, young people are assisted to develop a sense of responsibility, self-reliance and personal discipline. President Kibaki noted that activities like expedition that enhance endurance, risk assessment, appropriate decision-making and team playing empowered the youth to take responsibility for their lives and act positively in their communities for the good of all. He said the approach was important as it ensured that the youth are actively involved at all levels in the development. He added that assisting the youth to appreciate the environment and manage resources properly is investing in the better future of the nation. Present were Education Minister Professor George Saitoti, Assistant Minister Beth and Director of the Scheme Mr. Mathew Kithyaka.