SREE ABIRAMI COLLEGE OF NURSING: Pioneering AIDS Awareness on World AIDS Day 2023
World AIDS Day Celebration – 01.12.2023
AIDS Awareness Rally: “Let Communities Lead”
In a profound demonstration of commitment and solidarity, Sree Abirami College of Nursing in Coimbatore observed World AIDS Day on December 1, 2023. The institution orchestrated an impactful AIDS Awareness Rally, aiming to enlighten the general public about the challenges posed by HIV/AIDS. With the theme “Let Communities Lead,” the event highlighted the crucial role communities play in shaping the response to HIV, emphasizing the need for collective action.
Inauguration and Welcome:
The inauguration of the event commenced with a heartfelt welcome speech by Prof. Gandhimathi, Vice Principal of Sree Abirami College of Nursing. Dr. Periasamy, Chairman of Sree Abirami Institutions, delivered a powerful presidential address, setting the tone for the day. The chief guest, Dr. Chandrakala Rani, Chief Medical Officer at Madukarai Government Hospital, emphasized the importance of community engagement in AIDS prevention. Mr. Natesan, Inspector of Sundarapuram Police Station, provided a special address, underscoring the role of nursing students in spreading awareness and the responsibilities of the youth.
Pledge and Flag-Off:
Dr. Renuka. R, the Principal, led nursing students and staff in taking the pledge, reinforcing the individual responsibility in caring for patients with AIDS. The chief guest, Dr. Chandrakala Rani, and Dr. P. Periyasamy, Chairman of Sree Abirami Institutions, along with the Board of Directors, flagged off the rally.
Awareness Rally Journey:
The awareness rally embarked on its journey from Sree Abirami Hospital, proceeding through Kamarajar Nagar and Madukkarai Market Road. Equipped with red ribbons distributed to participants, the students displayed nearly 50 placards conveying impactful slogans such as “Global Solidarity, Shared Responsibility,” “AIDS cannot be cured, but it can be prevented,” and “AIDS does not spread by the virus but by ignorance and lack of awareness.”
The rally, guided by Mr. Natesan, the Inspector of Police, and his team, unfolded seamlessly. Dr. Renuka. R, Prof. Gandhimathi, and Mrs. Synthia, Assistant Professor at Sree Abirami College of Nursing, worked collaboratively with their team to ensure the success of the program.
Participation and Impact:
Approximately 220 students from B.Sc. Nursing I, II, and III Year, along with 50 students from the School of Nursing and 20 faculties, totaling 290 participants, actively contributed to the rally. The event, passing through the bustling Madukkarai Market Road, reached thousands of people, providing them with valuable information on AIDS prevention.
Nurses’ Crucial Role:
Nurses play a pivotal role in preventing HIV/AIDS through vital functions such as health education for youths, high-risk groups, and eligible couples, as well as prophylaxis. Given the absence of a cure or vaccine for this syndrome, prevention remains paramount. Counseling for people living with HIV/AIDS and educating caregivers and communities are crucial to address stigmatization.
Conclusion and Impact:
The AIDS Awareness Rally concluded with a heightened awareness among the public regarding the availability, quality, and security of services for HIV treatment, testing, and prevention. The rallying cry of “prevention is better than cure” echoed through the event, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
In essence, Sree Abirami College of Nursing, through its World AIDS Day activities, not only highlighted the global urgency of combating HIV/AIDS but also showcased the institution’s commitment to community-led initiatives in the fight against this formidable public health challenge.