The Intensified IEC Campaign launched on August 12, 2024, at the NBCC Convention Centre Kohima as Nagaland also joined hands with the campaign. P. Paiwang Konyak, Minister of Health & Family Welfare graced the event as the special guest.
Addressing the audience, P. Paiwang Konyak stated that National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) has initiated the Intensified Information, Education, Communication (IEC) Campaign which is being launched all over the nation, coinciding with the International Youth Day.
He took the time to remind all those present that this initiative was not just a program but a movement aimed at empowering the communities with knowledge and understanding that can transform lives. He added that over the next two months, this dynamic campaign will reach every corner of Nagaland, raising awareness about HIV, promoting safe practices and reducing stigma and discrimination in our society.
He said the IEC campaign is designed to bridge this gap by disseminating vital information in a way that is accessible, engaging and impactful and our focus is not just on spreading awareness but also on education, providing the knowledge that can change behaviours and lead to healthier, safer and more informed communities and this campaign will cover a broad spectrum of issues that are critical to our collective well-being.
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However, he added that information alone is not enough and we need to communicate effectively, understand the unique needs and challenges of different segments of our society as this campaign will leverage various channels-traditional media, digital platforms, community outreach and face-to-face interactions-to ensure that our messages resonate with diverse audiences. “This initiative is a collaborative effort,” he stated.
He expressed his delight to have the support of government agencies, non-governmental organisations, community leaders, educators and the media, all working together to amplify our reach and impact.
The main weapon to fight against HIV is “Awareness, Test and Treatment,” Konyak emphasised. He also stated through this that, “there is a need of active participation of every individual in our society as it is only through collective action that we can truly make a difference.”
He underscored that information is power, but it is only powerful when it is understood, embraced and acted upon. Therefore, as the campaign begins, he is hopeful that the intent of the campaign will be achieved.
As they pledged to spread the information about HIV to friends and well-wishers, he encouraged all to be the ambassadors of this campaign, spreading the message far and wide, ensuring that the knowledge we share today will lead to a brighter, healthier tomorrow.
In his keynote address, V. Kezo, Commissioner Secretary HFW and Chaiman NSACS GoN stated that this is a program that needs active engagement from every individual to listen, understand and disseminate the message. He then advised the younger generation to choose their companions wisely to have an ideal life, as relationships significantly impact the trajectory of one’s life. Furthermore, he also underscored the necessity of maintaining one’s overall well-being; physically and spiritually.
The program was chaired by Ahu Sekhose, NSACS project director, followed by a rally which commenced from NBCC Convention Centre to NLA Junction. Extra-curricular activities like exhibition stalls, photo booth/selfie point, free HIV/syphilis counselling and testing, interaction with HIV/drug users’ community, social media kiosk, pledge signing, exciting gifts, face painting, autograph signing & selfie with #RedWarriors (Influencers), Games & Competition with SDG & The Birds and The Bees Talk (Plan India) was also made available.
