Port Blair, Dec 02: ANCOL Red Ribbon Club Of Andaman College (ANCOL), Port Blair organized an awareness programe to mark World Aids Day on 1st December 2016 on the theme “Hands up for HIV Prevention”
In her welcome address Dr Pusphavalli, HOD, English Department and convener of the program said that World Aids Day is observed annually on December 1st, and is dedicated to raise awareness to the Aids pandemic caused by the spread of HIV infection. There are many myths and incorrect social ideas that surround HIV and AIDS. People often even assume that the two are the same, which is definitely not the case. She appealed to the students to make a conscious attempt to address some of the most widespread misconceptions about this disease.
Earlier Principal of the college Dr R Dev Das highlighted on the importance of the observance of the day. He further added that more number of people are on HIV treatment, but it continues to be a major health challenge looming over the world with a cure yet to be discovered. With nearly 37 million people living with the virus at the end of 2015, according to the World Health Organization, it is important to rise above all discriminatory practices and dispel the myths around this disease to help patients and their families. He appealed to the students that this is the time to move forward together to ensure that all children start their lives free from HIV, that young people and adults grow up and stay free from HIV and stays Aids-free.”
Shri S Partiban, HOD (Sociology) and Mr Avinash, HOD(Music) from the faculty side and Agila, BA English representing the students also spoke on the occasion. Miss Priya ,Guest Faculty(English) also presented a song based on the theme during the occasion.
The students of English department affixed red ribbons to the faculties and students of the college appealing them all to spread the message among the populace to make A & N Islands free from HIV/AIDS.
