Jakhama sensitised on HIV/AIDS, drug abuse
Dimapur, July 27 (MExN): A one-day advocacy and sensitisation program was held at the town community hall in Jakhama on July 25 with stakeholders, NSS volunteers, Jakhama youth society, the Jakhama women society and community elders. The program, which focused on HIV/AIDS and Drug Abuse as the main issue, was organised jointly by the Nagaland Users’ Network (NUN) and the Kohima Users Network (KUN) in collaboration with the NSS, Red Ribbon Club, St. Joseph College, Jakhama.
Around 100 participants congregated to discuss various issues pertaining to HIV/AIDS and drug abuse. All the sessions were facilitated by Tepukushunu, Program Officer for NSS. In his welcome speech, Kevinguto Khamo, Project Director for Jakhama DIC, shared about the History of NUN and his expectation to closely work in tandem, not only on the day, but in the days to follow.
A session on the basics of HIV/AIDS, STIs and drug abuse was taken by Ketholelie, president of NUN. It may be mentioned that the TI project implemented at Jakhama was sponsored by the NSACS as part of its NACP-111, and under its guidance the project is being operated by NUN and managed by the KUN. Resource persons from NNP+ (PSB wing) and KUN shared their testimony as PLHA and recovering addict. This was followed by an interactive session on positive living and drug abuse. The session relating to stigma and discrimination was deliberated by Ketho, who exhorted that as individuals we need to change our attitude towards the epidemic so as to scale up HIV testing and enable access to treatment.
Representing the Jakhama Women Society, Nochoprale exhorted the dynamic resource of NUN and appreciated the network for their sincere dedication towards the cause. Citing that action was an important ingredient at this hour of crisis, she called upon the youths to lead a responsible and productive life. Bringing the session to an end, Ruokozo, program manager at DIC Jakhama, extended the vote of thanks on behalf of all the organisers. Later, a friendly volleyball match between the Jakhama Youth and NSS was played to commemorate the event.
