[dropcap]T[/dropcap]HE Red Ribbon Superstar campaign of creating awareness through music; NSACS ZERO, continued its journey to the land of plenty, where five gifted bands battled for a shot at the finals. Brand Ambassadors ‘Clueless Attention’ opened the event with stirring performances of their originals and other popular hits. State Programme Officer, NSACS, Dr. Rose briefly spoke on the basics of HIV/AIDS and also highlighted various ongoing activities by NSACS to prevent and contain the spread of HIV infection. Abemo Tungoe from Renth Youth Mission Foundation and member of Nagaland Users’ Network on the subject of drug abuse.
He highlighted the services that are available for drug users, especially highlighting on Opioid Substitution Therapy (OST) which is a medical procedure of replacing an illegal drug with a longer acting but less euphoric opioid, that is taken under medical supervision. Currently, there are 15 OST centres under NSACS.
The band HEADGEARZ won the contest, the second place went to RUNE LEGACY, while KILL DEMON ARC came in the third place.
The NSACS ZERO crew were able to visit Witter Theological College for a short service with the students. Clueless Attention presented few songs, while Dr. Rose spoke to the students, emphasizing on the role theologians can play in spreading awareness of HIV/AIDS in the society.
The Principal of the theological college, Dr Moanungsang thanked the team for visiting the seminary. He mentioned that they have a *syllabus on HIV/AIDS and looked forward to ‘future collaboration’ for such programs. (*It may be mentioned that there is an NBCC policy on HIV/AIDS initiated by NSACS; formulated with stakeholders) Dr. Moanungsang prayed for the team and for the success of the music campaign. Four theological students came forward for HIV testing within the campus. In his interaction with Mr. Tarepnokcha, GIPA Coordinator, NSACS, the Principal also mentioned his desire for formation of Red Ribbon Club (RRC) in the college.
RRC is a program run by NSACS, initiated by the Government of India, in educational institutions. Through the RRCs students are made aware of HIV/AIDS and encouraged to learn about safe and healthy lifestyle.
