A Sod-cutting ceremony for the construction of an Information, Education and Communication Centre (IEC)_ estimated at c741 million, was yesterday performed by Mrs Margaret Clarke-Kwessie, Deputy Minister of Health.

The project, which is expected to be completed in 15 months, is being funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

The IEC centre will serve as a reference point for information and materials on HIV/AIDS/STDs and Family Planning, and act as a clearing house for the reception, cataloguing and dissemination of information, and other health problems in general.

In a brief speech, Mrs Clarke-Kwessie said the ministry regards the education of people, on sex, and what is more, AIDS cases have been reported in all the regions and all the age groups, especially the 20 - 49 age group, whom the disease often afflicts constitute the active labour force of the country.