Launch of HIV/AIDS awareness cum community based testing campaign at PU

Chandigarh State AIDS Control Society launched HIV/AIDS awareness campaign at
Panjab University today. The campaign was launched by Prof Raj Kumar, Vice Chancellor,
Panjab University along with Dr. Vanita Gupta, Project Director, CSACS, Dr. Davender
Dhawan, CMO, Prof Emanual Nahar, Dean, Student Welfare (Men), Prof Neena Caplash,
Dean, Student Welfare (Women) from Student Centre, Panjab University.
Dr. Vanita Gupta, Chandigarh State AIDS Control Society informed that Youth in
India comprises 34.8% of the total population and youth are vulnerable to HIV. It is
seen that 86% of those infected, are in the age group 15 – 49 years. It is important
to equip the youth with correct knowledge and information about Sexually Transmitted
Infections and how to avoid Drug Abuse. It is also very important to motivate the
youth to come forth as regular Blood Donors. It is important that they keep healthy
and fit. She said that the need of the hour is to talk openly about HIV because
communication is the only tool which will help us to fight back HIV. The launch of the
program in Panjab University will help students to gather knowledge and avail of the
free counselling and testing facility which will be provided at their doorstep, in the
Health Centre of the University
Prof. Raj Kumar, Vice Chancellor, Panjab University supported the cause
wholeheartedly and suggested that all hostels and colleges be sensitized. Feedback and
assessment of information imbibed by the students should be assessed. He committed
support and cooperation from the entire Panjab University.
The programme was a huge success and a large number of students benefited from
the education and messages conveyed through a Street Play.