RONO HILLS, Apr 7: The BEd IV semester trainees of the Department of Education, Rajiv Gandhi University in collaboration with its Red Ribbon Club Unit, RGU successfully organized an HIV/AIDS awareness programme today across different localities of Papum Pare district.
Mainly targeting adolescent students with the aim of spreading awareness and promoting responsible health practices, the awareness drive was conducted in several institutions, including KV NERIST, KV Naharlagun, Rajiv Gandhi University, and JNV Gumto.
As part of the programme, the BEd trainees actively engaged students through a variety of interactive and informative activities such as skits, presentations on HIV/AIDS, poster presentations, and competitions based on the theme of HIV/AIDS. Winners of the competitions were awarded prizes to encourage participation and reinforce learning.
The key objectives of the programme were to create awareness about HIV/AIDS, promote healthy behaviour, remove myths and misconceptions, and encourage informed decision-making among adolescents.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Tage Monju, Coordinator of RRC (RGU), highlighted the growing concern regarding HIV/AIDS in the State. She stated that as of April 2026, the situation in Arunachal Pradesh reflects an increasing trend, with approximately 2,500–2,600 people identified as HIV-positive up to 2025, according to the Arunachal Pradesh State AIDS Control Society.
Districts such as Papum Pare and Namsai have reported higher numbers of cases, she added.
Dr Monju further emphasized that the need for awareness programmes is becoming increasingly important, particularly among young people. She noted that many youths are affected due to lack of awareness, unsafe practices, and stigma surrounding testing. She added that such initiatives play a crucial role in educating students about prevention, safe practices, and the importance of early testing, while also helping to reduce fear and misconceptions.
The programme was successfully conducted under the leadership of the Dean, Faculty of Education, Prof Elizabeth Hangsing, HoD Education Prof Boa Reena Tok, and Programme Coordinator Prof Anga Padu.
A total of 108 BEd IV semester trainees actively participated in carrying out the awareness activities among adolescent learners.
The initiative reflects the commitment of Rajiv Gandhi University towards community engagement and health education, contributing to the larger effort of controlling the spread of HIV/AIDS in the state.