HIV/AIDS Awareness Seminar in Vavuniya

21 June 2007– An HIV/AIDS Awareness Seminar was conducted for the Christian youth in Vavuniya. 85 youth were present at this program.

Large numbers of Sri Lankan refugees are returning from refugee camps in India. The cramped living conditions and poverty make many of them vulnerable to HIV/AIDS. Recent reports state that the Northern and Eastern districts have the second largest number of people living with HIV/AIDS. Refugees, army soldiers, commercial sex workers and war widows are the most vulnerable.

The following subjects were discussed:

 ·         HIV/AIDS and How it spreads
 ·         Myths and Realities of the Disease
 ·         Preventing  HIV/AIDS
 ·         Sexually Transmitted Infections
 ·         The Responsibility of the Church Towards People at Risk and People Living with HIV/AIDS
 ·         Psychosocial Support for People living with HIV/AIDS.

A case study was also carried out along with a drama. Group discussions and presentations were also held.