Officials and others during the inauguration of CiTY BARN - The Health Centre launched in Mokokchung on June 29.
Mokokchung, June 29 (MExN): An innovative youth health initiative of the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS), CiTY BARN - The Health Centre, was launched in Mokokchung on June 29.
CiTY BARN Mokokchung is the fifth such centre in the state, following the establishment of centres at Kohima, Dimapur, Wokha and Tuensang, while plans are underway to establish another centre in Peren district, stated a press release received here.
Located at I.M Road, Arkong Ward, near SBI Bazaar Branch, Mokokchung, above NETTEC Computers, the centre aims to reach young people below the age of 24 by providing health related information, counselling and support services in a safe and confidential environment.
The initiative is supported by Care & Support Society (C&SS), which has undertaken the project under NSACS.
It may be noted that NSACS collaborates with Adolescent Friendly Health Centres (AFHCs) through its innovative CiTY BARN initiative to address the increasing trend of HIV-positive cases among young people in Nagaland.
Prevention equally important as cure: DC
Inaugurating the centre, Ajit Kumar Verma, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Mokokchung said, “the CiTY BARN initiative, being an innovation of the Government of Nagaland, is a unique project and expressed that Mokokchung is fortunate to have such a centre.”
The National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) taking interest in the model and exploring its replication in different parts of the country is an achievement for the state, he noted.
Appreciating C&SS for taking up the initiative in collaboration with NACO and NSACS, the DC said the organisation has been instrumental in the health sector for many years and possesses the necessary experience and expertise to manage such a project.
“The centre would play an important role in preventive healthcare,” he said adding “while the medical sector largely focuses on curative services, prevention is equally important to reduce health related complications and social impact.”
He emphasised the importance of creating awareness among the youth regarding sanitation, personal hygiene and overall health practices. He said that a healthy population is essential for achieving broader developmental goals.
The DC also highlighted the importance of local institutions in providing counselling and guidance, stating that while digital platforms provide access to information, centres like CiTY BARN can offer localised support and assistance to young people dealing with personal, behavioural and health related concerns.
Appealing for public participation and support, the DC stated that the success of such initiatives depends on how effectively the services reach the community. He stressed the role of the Education Department in connecting students with the centre and encouraged collaboration between departments.
Dr Tiasunep, Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Mokokchung said the recognition of C&SS by NACO for implementing the project reflected its dedication and experience. He urged those involved in the centre to work with sincerity, commitment and empathy, stating that the initiative would cater to both the general public and vulnerable groups, including those affected by HIV & AIDS.
Delivering the ‘About Us’ presentation, Limatongzuk Jamir, Programme Officer, Care & Support Society, informed that C&SS is a non-profit organisation established in 1995 and registered in 2001 under the Societies Registration Act. The organisation is also registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 1976 and Section 12A of the Income Tax Act, 1961.
Based in Mokokchung, C&SS works across Nagaland by providing humanitarian support to underserved and vulnerable communities.
He stated that CiTY BARN was conceptualised by NSACS in response to the public health challenges faced by the state, particularly the rising number of HIV infections among young people.
He said the centre is designed as a youth-friendly space where young people can access accurate information, counselling and support without fear of stigma. The initiative focuses not only on HIV prevention but also on mental health, substance and tobacco use, sexual and reproductive health, life skills and overall well-being.
Jamir said the objective of CiTY BARN is to reach young people at an early stage, provide them with the right knowledge and empower them to make informed decisions.
The centre will function from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm during summer and from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm during winter. The services available at the centre include counselling, linkages to healthcare facilities such as TI, OST, ICTC, ART, STI, TB, Hepatitis, mental health, adolescent clinics, rehabilitation services, sexual and reproductive health services and tobacco/substance abuse services.
Other facilities include an in-house helpdesk, anonymous question-and-answer facility, screening for HIV, Syphilis, TB, Hepatitis and STI, and linkages for GBV and mental health support.
The centre will also organise thematic health sessions with resource persons from relevant departments covering youth specific STI and reproductive health, mental health, addiction counselling, testing and treatment, life skills and career counselling.
It was also informed that Tovra Works, a career training and skill development initiative in Nagaland, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NSACS CiTY BARN on June 10 this year to create a referral link between youth health support and career development programmes. Training will be conducted for different programmes and guaranteed job placements.
Ajungla Longchar chaired the programme. S Limawapang from PM Care & Counselling Centre, TI, delivered the invocation and a dedicatory prayer by Shilula Imchen, Pastor (Women), MTBA. Burlemla Longkumer presented a special song titled ‘Hero.’
