Media Release

Udupi, Sep 2: Shri Madhwa Vadiraja Institute of Technology and Management (SMVITM), Bantakal, in association with the National Service Scheme (NSS) and the Women Empowerment Cell (WEC), jointly organized an HIV/AIDS awareness programme titled 'Awareness today, wellness tomorrow – HIV/AIDS awareness programme' as part of the Student Induction Programme for first-year B E students of the 2026–27 batch

The resource person for the programme was Vasanthi, ICTC Counsellor, Community Health Centre (CHC), Shirva, Udupi. During the session, she created awareness among the students about HIV/AIDS, its modes of transmission, prevention, testing, treatment and care. She explained that HIV can be transmitted through unprotected sexual contact and from an HIV-positive mother to her child, while also emphasizing the importance of correct information in preventing misconceptions surrounding HIV.

Vasanthi highlighted the significance of early HIV testing and timely treatment and explained how appropriate medical care can help people living with HIV lead healthier lives. She also discussed measures available to significantly reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission. The session stressed that preventing HIV requires not only medical interventions but also awareness, responsible behaviour and the elimination of stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV.

The programme provided the newly admitted students with valuable information about HIV prevention and encouraged them to adopt informed and responsible health practices. The session reinforced the message that awareness, prevention, early diagnosis and access to treatment are essential in the collective effort to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

The programme was coordinated by Sharan Hegde, assistant professor, department of basic science and NSS coordinator, and Megha Rani, assistant professor (senior), department of AI-ML and WEC coordinator.