The archipelago nation of Seychelles in the Indian Ocean has launched a project to reduce HIV/AIDS stigma in the workplace and to educate workers on how to protect themselves against the virus, the African Press Agency reports.

According to the article, a committee made up of representatives from trade union employers’ associations, and state and non-governmental organizations will implement and monitor the project. In an effort to learn from the experiences of nearby countries and exchange information, the committee will also participate in regional HIV/AIDS conferences and workshops.

Jean Raguin, principal secretary for employment and human resources development, stated that the virus has had a devastating impact on health workers and has also reduced productivity and social progress. He added that the Seychelles government will also dispense preventative information on HIV/AIDS to workers in an attempt to reduce infection rates.