SRINAGAR: The College of Nursing, Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar, in collaboration with the Family Planning Association of India (FPAI), organised an impactful programme to commemorate World AIDS Day, aimed at enhancing awareness, promoting preventive strategies, and reinforcing the collective responsibility to eliminate stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS.
The observance was attended by Principal/Dean, GMC Srinagar, Prof. (Dr.) Iffat Hassan Shah, who attended the event as the Chief Guest. In her address, she underscored the significance of early diagnosis, education-driven prevention, and community engagement in the fight against HIV/AIDS. She urged nursing students to become strong advocates for public health and to play a proactive role in spreading accurate information at grassroots levels. She highlighted the importance of counselling services, treatment adherence, and social support systems as essential pillars in controlling the disease.
The programme was also attended by Administrator, GMC Srinagar, Mohammad Ashraf Hakak, as the Guest of Honour. He appreciated the initiative and emphasised the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and youth involvement in public health outreach. Encouraging students, he reiterated that meaningful participation in such awareness programmes builds competent and socially responsible healthcare professionals.
Chairperson, FPAI, Dr. Shahroz, delivered a key message on the importance of strengthening sexual and reproductive health services, improving accessibility to information, and extending support to vulnerable communities. He praised the College of Nursing for taking lead in promoting impactful educational activities.
As part of the commemoration, an engaging Quiz Competition on HIV/AIDS was organised to enhance students knowledge and clinical understanding. Nursing students participated with great enthusiasm, demonstrating commendable awareness, teamwork, and competitive spirit.
The World AIDS Day observance concluded with a pledge to continue spreading awareness, supporting affected individuals, and contributing to global efforts toward achieving an AIDS-free society.