Dimapur, July 2, (EMN): The Legislators’ Forum on AIDS (LFA) Nagaland, in partnership with Care and Support Society (CSS) of Mokokchung conducted an advocacy programme on HIV / AIDS on June 28 at Clark Theological College (CTC), Aolijen in Mokokchung.
According to the press release received from the organisers, during the programme, managing director of Care and Support Society, Imchawati Kichu highlighted about the present scenario of HIV / AIDS in Mokokchung district.
Resource person State Consultant Dr. Vinito L Chishi expressed concern over the alarming HIV prevalence rate in Nagaland. He called upon the students of Clark Theological College who will be the leaders of tomorrow in churches and various missions to create awareness among their own community. He also called for equal participation and urged them to develop a sense of ownership by taking collective responsibility.
Dr. Chishi also called for the involvement of church leaders in addressing the issue through pre-marital counselling and creating public awareness. He said that ‘the church is a permanent community fixture where education and counselling can be in the church settings, give care and support, and maintain healthy behaviour. He also said the church can mobilise a force of volunteers from the church to initiate networking with NGOs, community leaders, women, youth and government establishments.
Another resource person, a member of LFA, Hukatoli talked on the vulnerability of a person where one may acquire HIV infection. She warned the students that HIV infection can occur to anyone including theological students.
Hukatoli encouraged all to play an important role to prevent HIV / AIDS by building a bridge and filling up the gaps by educating and delivering correct information. She also asked the students to make the community understand that HIV / AIDS is not only a health problem but also the social, economic, and development issue.
