Ensure access to prevention, treatment, and care for HIV: Dr R Toshimenla Jamir, DTO, DACO
In Mokokchung, the District AIDS Control Unit, in collaboration with the Targeted Intervention (TI) NGO, Care & Support Society, observed World AIDS Day on the theme “Let Communities Lead.” The program, supported by NACO, took place at the CMO conference Hall.
Limatongzuk Jamir, the program manager of the Care and Support Society, Mokokchung, presented the significance of the day. A candlelight vigil was also held during the program.
Speaking on the theme, Dr Toshimenla Jamir, District AIDS Control Officer, declared that World AIDS Day is a call to action to enable and support communities in their respective roles. She emphasized how HIV/AIDS has cast a dark shadow on the global community, claiming lives and causing destruction in countless families and individuals, accompanied by stigmas and discrimination.
Furthermore, she added that despite the dark clouds that have hovered, there have been beacons of hope — stories of resilience and unwavering determination that have paved a path for a brighter future. She acknowledged the advancement of science, particularly about Antiretroviral treatment (ART), which has transformed HIV from a deadly situation to a manageable conditions.
She called upon all gathered to ensure access to HIV prevention, treatment, and care irrespective of background, creating an environment where individuals feel empowered to get tested, and seek treatment, and care without fear of stigma and discrimination.
The program was attended by all stakeholders, caregivers, and GNM students.
Jubilee Memorial College
The Red Ribbon Club of Jubilee Memorial College, Mokokchung successfully conducted a Slogan Competition in commemoration of World AIDS Day on December 1, 2023, based on the theme “Let Communities Lead” at the college premises. A total of 11 students participated in the competition.
Chubaienla Imchen, Nodal Officer, Red Ribbon Club, JMC, gave a brief note on World AIDS Day before the declaration of the results.
The winners received cash prizes and certificates of participation. Vandhana Rai secured the first position, Moamongla Imchen the second position, and Akumjungla Imchen and Tiasunep Aier jointly secured the third position.
The slogans of the winners were: First – “Overcoming AIDS today, tomorrow, together.” Second – “Together let’s make AIDS history.” Third – “Join hands together to conquer the disease and the stigma” and “Positive changes to end positive stats: Let communities Lead.”
The judges for the event were Dr Moalemla Imchen, Assistant Professor, FAC; Mulato, Assistant Professor, JMC; and Debolina Mukherjee, Assistant Professor, St Joseph’s College, Jakhama.
People’s College
People’s College Red Ribbon Club organized an essay competition on the theme ‘Let Communities Lead,’ where Tiatemjen (5th Sem) secured the first prize, Toshimongla (5th Sem) came in second, and Gracy (3rd Sem) was announced as the third-place winner.