The Commissioner & Secretary of Health & Family Welfare and Chairman of NSACS, V Kezo, officially launched the City Barn – The Health Centre in Kohima, emphasizing the center’s role in promoting the confidence and wellbeing of young people. Speaking at the launch, Kezo highlighted the growing concern of young individuals becoming increasingly isolated due to their reliance on online activities, leading to a disconnect from social responsibilities.
He urged the Health Centre to extend support, comfort, and understanding through interaction, and to pass on valuable knowledge acquired over the years. Kezo stressed the importance of designing systems and methods that ensure this knowledge is not wasted but instead fosters positive values among the youth.
“The Health Centre presents an interesting platform to provide advice and counseling, offering an alternative to the often isolating influence of social media. Through interaction and sharing, we can protect the mental, physical, and overall wellbeing of the younger generation,” Kezo remarked.
Dr Ahu Sekhose, the Project Director, in his keynote address, described City Barn as a “happening place” that will provide essential services to adolescents and individuals in need of counseling and support. Joint Director (Prevention), Dr. Bernice D. Thapru, also presented a brief report on the City Barn innovation project, outlining its objectives and scope.
Miss Nagaland 2022, Red Warrior Hikali Achumi, called on the community to break the stigma surrounding mental health and to take full advantage of the services provided by City Barn. “Do not suffer in silence,” she urged, encouraging individuals to seek help.
City Barn – The Health Centre offers a wide range of services, including counseling, TI/OST/ICTC/ART/STI/TB/Hepatitis/Mental Health/Adolescent clinic, rehabilitation, SRH services, and HIV screening.