IYC 2026: Youth urged to drive HIV awareness in Mon

Morung Express News
Mon | August 12

The District Integrated Strategy for HIV & AIDS (DISHA), Mon, in collaboration with the Red Ribbon Club (RRC) of Wangkhao Government College, observed International Youth Day 2026 and launched an Intensified Information, Education and Communication (IEC) Campaign at the college auditorium on August 12.

The programme, supported by the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS), was held under the theme “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations” and brought together students, youth representatives, health personnel and community stakeholders to promote awareness on HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), while highlighting the role of young people in building healthier and more resilient communities.

A session on the routes of HIV/STI transmission was conducted by Ngamnyei K, Counsellor, M. ICTC, focusing on prevention and awareness. The programme was chaired by Nutsulu Dawhuo, Nodal Officer, RRC, Wangkhao Government College, and began with an invocation by Changyong K, EU President, WGC, followed by a solo song by Nyeiwang K.

Delivering the keynote address, Longyim Tzudir, District Programme Officer, DISHA, said young people are not merely beneficiaries of development but can be active agents of change. He called upon youth to participate meaningfully in addressing community challenges and contribute to HIV prevention, awareness and access to treatment.

Tzudir also stressed the importance of sustained community mobilisation and continued efforts to improve HIV testing, treatment and awareness. He encouraged young people to make use of available programmes and activities and support collective efforts to strengthen the community response to HIV/AIDS.

CMO Mon Dr Supongmenla Walling delivered the speech-cum-launching address for the Intensified IEC Campaign. Reflecting on the theme, she noted that young people in different settings may face different challenges but share common aspirations, including dignity, opportunities, participation, quality education, appropriate employment and a sustainable future.

She encouraged youth to move beyond being passive recipients and become resilient leaders capable of addressing local challenges and contributing to positive change.

As part of the intensified campaign, awareness activities will include village-level meetings, college-based programmes, activities involving district health institutions and other IEC and outreach initiatives.

HIV and STI testing services were also provided by the Mobile ICTC team following the formal programme, enabling participants to access testing and related services.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Esther P Konyak, Vice Principal, Wangkhao Government College, NHM Mon stated in a press release.