On the occasion of World AIDS Day, the Department of Fundamentals of Nursing, Manipal College of Nursing Manipal, conducted a virtual session on the theme ‘End inequalities, End AIDS’ on December 1, 2021. Dr Melita Sheilini, Assistant Professor, Selection grade was the Resource Person.

Dr Melita elaborated on the importance of observing World AIDS Day every year and also on the theme ‘End Inequalities End AIDS’. Briefed on Epidemiology of HIV/AIDS, transmission, treatment and how treatment helps in an individual. Discussed the Stigma that is present in the society and the discrimination, with clinical examples and emphasized not to discriminate against people living with HIV/AIDS. Elaborated on how to support patient and family and Nursing issues in caring for a patient with HIV.

The key message given was to educate people, treat people with HIV/AIDS and make a difference by preventing transmission of HIV. A total of 100 students participated in this program.

A painting competition on the theme ‘End AIDS and Not People with AIDS’ was also held as part of this program. Six students of the first year BSc Nursing participated in the competition. Ms Melissa Alina D’Souza won first place and Ms Anumol Lukose second place.

These activities were conducted as a part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.