Chizokho Vero
Kohima | July 19
Nagaland would soon see a greater level of involvement from the youths in combating HIV/AIDS as formation of Red Ribbon Clubs in all the colleges is stressed. This was highlighted at the one-day workshop for Nagaland University and Principals held here today under the aegis of Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS).
“There are about 20,000 students studying in some 42 colleges of general education, polytechnics and different departments under Nagaland University. We believe that factual and timely information when provided to the students can go a long way in reducing the spread of HIV/AIDS,” said NSACS project director Dr. Kumuni.
Red Ribbon is the global symbol of solidarity with HIV positive and people living with AIDS and it unites the people in the common fight against this disease. The Red Ribbon Club is a movement to create and raise awareness about HIV/AIDS through service, education and events.
Dr. Kumuni said that HIV/AIDS affects the most productive age-group in the society. Statistics from January 2002 to Ist June 2006 reveals that almost 50 per cent of HIV positive cases are in the age group of 15 -29 years. For this, formation of RRCs in colleges and university has been necessitated.
The Club aims at dissemination of information, awareness through peer educators, strengthen Voluntary Blood Donation movements, promotion of responsible behavior, involvement of youth in planning and implementation, holding poster competitions, debates, Quiz, street play as well as sensitize club members, garner sources of information and referrals and contact points, have documentation, report activities etc. Secretary health and family welfare Imkonglemba chaired the programme. So far, 994 AIDS cases have been reported in the state of which 588 are male and 406 female. 320 AIDS related deaths have been reported- 188 male and 132 female, according to NSACS source since 1994 to May 2006.
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