KUCHING: Students at the Mas Gading Community College (KKMG) attended an awareness lecture on HIV/AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) here recently.
The programme organised in collaboration with the Bau District Health Office, was held in conjunction with the National Sports Day celebrations from Oct 27- Nov 5.
Benedict Salim (seated, second from the right) with lecturers and students from KKMG after the lecture.
Director of Mas Gading Community College, Shirley Phillip,said it aimed to raise awareness and provide information about the dangers of HIV/AIDS and STDs, especially among teenagers.
“We hope that students can gain a better understanding of risky behaviours that could expose them to infections and ways to prevent them as they navigate the increasingly complex world in recent times,” she said in a statement yesterday.
Syafiqah – Head of the Student Development Unit of KKMG (far right) presenting a token of appreciation to Benedict, the Bau District Health Officer.
A total of 110 KKMG students attended the lecture, which was delivered by Bau District Health Officer, Benedict Salim.
Berthalya Meinin, a third-semester student in the Information Technology Certificate Programme at KKMG, emphasised the importance of such awareness lectures in effectively conveying accurate information about infectious diseases.
Pictures of Berthalya Meinin and Muhamad Nurshah, students in the Information Technology and Landscape Certificate programs at KKMG.
“Many high-achieving students are the hope of the nation, but if they are affected by STDs, they may need advice or assistance to avoid despair and, ultimately, falling into a risky lifestyle,” she added.
Muhamad Nurshah Sunarjo, a first-year student in the Landscape Certificate Programme, said awareness programmes like this are very beneficial for the new generation, who may have less knowledge about infectious diseases like HIV and STDs due to the current culture of free social interaction.
“The lack of life skills to manage risky situations and the use of alcohol and drugs often put young people in a higher-risk group for contracting HIV and STDs. In addition, social media, dating websites, and mobile apps make it easier for young people to meet each other for sexual relationships,” he added.
