North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research observed International Youth Day 2025 at the 7th Mile Chümoukedima on August 14.
Call to mobilise youth for HIV prevention, health promotion
CHÜMOUKEDIMA, AUGUST 14 (MExN): International Youth Day 2025 was observed at the North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR), 7th Mile Chümoukedima, on Thursday with a call to mobilise youth for HIV prevention and health promotion.
The event was organised by the District Integrated Strategy for HIV/AIDS (DISHA), Dimapur, and Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS) in collaboration with the United Riders Motorcycle Club and the Red Ribbon Club (RRC), NEISSR, as part of the 6th National Social Work Week. The theme was “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs: Preventing HIV and Promoting Health.”
Dr Susanna Kikon, Medical Officer, ART Centre, Chümoukedima, said Nagaland records the second-highest HIV prevalence among adults in the country, with the 15-49 age group being the most vulnerable. Many remain unaware of their HIV status, she said, stressing the need to address stigma and discrimination.
While there is no cure for HIV, it can be managed through free Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), Dr Kikon said, urging early testing. She emphasised the “ABC” approach -abstain before marriage, be faithful to one’s partner, and correct and consistent condom use- and called for compassion and community support for people living with HIV.
Delivering the keynote, Dr Fr C P Anto, Principal, NEISSR, and Director, Peace Channel, said HIV was “stealing futures quietly but relentlessly” and urged that stigma be replaced with solidarity. “We must turn schools and a college into hubs of awareness...the time to act is not someday, but today,” he said, calling on churches, academic institutions, NGOs and government agencies to collaborate.
United Riders Motorcycle Club president Moatemsu called on the youth to create awareness “for a better tomorrow”. This was followed by a rendition of Amazing Grace by club member Linkhai.
A special number was presented by Zipise Sangtam, BSW I semester. The welcome address was delivered by Rev Fr G L Khing, Vice-Principal and Administrator, NEISSR, and the invocation by Dr Toli H Kiba, Nodal Officer, RRC NEISSR. Proceedings were chaired by Elizabeth Pojar, Assistant Professor, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Mecievinuo Zhotso, District Programme Officer, DISHA.
The programme served as a call to mobilise local youth towards the Sustainable Development Goals by preventing HIV, promoting holistic health, and eliminating stigma and discrimination.
