NEISSR students get insight into safe sexual practices

DIMAPUR — The Red Ribbon Club of North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR), in collaboration with City Barn Health Centre, organised an awareness programme titled ‘Catch them young – beware, reach on time, say no to unsafe sex behavior,’ at Peace Centre, Bishop Abraham Memorial Hall, on Saturday.

According to a press release from NEISSR, the programme aimed to raise awareness about the risks associated with unsafe sexual behaviour, particularly among the youth.

“It was a crucial initiative to educate the student community about the importance of safe sex practices to prevent from HIV transmission and to encourage proactive health behaviours,” it stated.

Path mentor Kuputoli Awomi, who spoke on HIV/AIDs, highlighted on the importance of setting personal goals, recognising the symptoms of HIV/AIDs and using condom as a method of prevention.

She noted that in Nagaland, there is often a “sense of shyness or reluctance surrounding the use of condoms,” leading to significance health issue. Awomi also emphasised on the role of City Barn in assisting people with HIV testing and providing counseling services.

Shukhrieno Luho, the centre coordinator of City Barn Dimapur, informed the participants that City Barn, Health Centre for Adolescents, is an innovative project in collaboration with the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS) and National Aids Control Organisation (NACO).

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She said the idea of the project is to commit and get connected with all the young people below the age of 24 who are concerned about their health and well being, and the core objective is to provide counselling service to young people.

Currently the team is starting this project in Dimapur, Kohima, Wokha and Tuensang on a pilot basis, she added.

Earlier, the event began with Tenglitsula (BSW 3rd semester) moderating the session, followed by invocation by Visavonuo Rhetso (MSW 1st semester).

Welcome address was delivered by Ng Souvahne Lishe (BSW 5th semester) and Dr. Toli H Kiba, assistant professor and nodal officer, RRC, NEISSR, introduced the resource persons and other guests.

At the end of the awareness programme, D Adahrii, president of Red Ribbon Club NEISSR, in his vote of thanks, expressed gratitude to all participants and organisers for their contributions.