An awareness programme on HIV and AIDS was conducted at Immanuel College, Dimapur on October 29.
Dimapur, October 30 (MExN): An awareness programme on HIV and AIDS was conducted at Immanuel College, Dimapur on October 29, focusing on combating stigma and promoting compassion towards those affected.
Organised by the college’s Red Ribbon Club in collaboration with its NSS and Art and Drama units, the event was held under the theme ‘Breaking Stigma, Embracing Humanity’.
The resource person, Mhalelhou Albert Yhome, a counselor at The Health Centre Dimapur’s BYWC, Citybarn, emphasised the profound message of the theme. He stated that it “reminds us that how we treat others defines who we are as individuals and as a community,” encouraging attendees to treat everyone with “kindness and understanding.”
Yhome highlighted a critical public health concern, noting that “Nagaland has the second highest HIV prevalence rate in the country after Mizoram.” He stressed that the “choices we make- to protect ourselves, to get tested, and to educate others, can significantly influence both our personal well-being and future of our society.”
He identified stigma as a major barrier in the fight against HIV, stating that the “biggest challenge... is not the virus itself but the stigma surrounding it.”
This stigma, often associating HIV with “moral failure and shame,” leads to judgement and isolation, discouraging people from getting tested and allowing the virus to spread, he explained.
Education was underscored as the key to removing fear and discrimination. Yhome provided a brief medical explanation of HIV and assured that with “proper medication, balanced diet, and care, people living with HIV can live a long and healthy life.”
He concluded with a reminder that since “HIV does not discriminate... our response must also be free from discrimination.” He urged the gathering to “rise above prejudice and replace all those negative judgments with acceptance and support.”
The programme, chaired by student Japhet, featured a welcome address by Red Ribbon Club Convenor Ngipsho M Konyak. The event also included a drama, poetry recitation, solo performance, dance, and a Red Ribbon Pledge. A vote of thanks was delivered by NSS Programme Officer Abenthung.
