DOIMUKH, Aug 29: A 5-km Red Run Mini Marathon was organised at Government College Doimukh on Saturday to create awareness among young people about HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
The event was organised by the college's Red Ribbon Club and NSS Unit in association with the Arunachal Pradesh AIDS Control Society (APSACS), under the aegis of the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
Held on the theme “Youth for HIV and STI”, the programme sought to engage college students in spreading awareness about HIV/AIDS, STIs, adolescent health and mental health through sports and competitive activities.
Red Ribbon Club coordinator Dr Eva Dupak sensitised participants about HIV and STI transmission, symptoms, treatment and prevention. She stressed the importance of education, testing and empowering youth to make informed decisions regarding their health.
Dr Dupak also called upon young people to counter misinformation and misconceptions surrounding HIV/AIDS and promote a supportive attitude towards people living with HIV/AIDS. She highlighted stigma and discrimination as major challenges in HIV prevention and awareness.
She further shared the prevailing HIV situation in Arunachal Pradesh and stated that Papum Pare district has recorded the highest number of HIV-positive cases in the state.
The event was flagged off by NSS Programme Officer Dr Dakli Lombi and saw enthusiastic participation from students and faculty members.
Tadar Kaya of BA I Semester, Department of History, won the men's category, while Sita Gama of BA V Semester, Department of Geography, emerged winner in the women's category. Both winners will represent the college at the state-level competition. The winners were presented certificates and cash prizes.