Students from Chennai Colleges received a Trophy of Appreciation for promoting HIV/AIDS Awareness

The Indian Community Welfare Organisation (ICWO), along with several partners, held an Inter-Collegiate AIDS Gaana Song Dance Competition on December 23, 2025, at C. Kandaswami Naidu College for Men in Chennai. The event aimed to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, promote prevention, and reduce stigma through the medium of Gaana music and dance. Students from multiple colleges in Chennai participated enthusiastically, combining social messages with cultural expression.

The competition was opened by Mr. PMJF M. Selvakkumar from the Lions Club of Chennai Golden Friends and Dr. V. M. Muthuramalinga Andavar, the principal of the host college, along with members of the CKNCAA. The prize distribution ceremony featured notable attendees including Thiru. M. K. Mohan, the local Member of Legislative Assembly, Tmt. R. Seethalakshmi, I. A. S., Project Director of the Tamil Nadu State AIDS Control Society, and Dr. Dilip Mathai, Director of Medical Education at Naruvii Hospitals.

Thiru. M. K. Mohan praised the students for using creative methods like song and dance to convey vital messages about HIV/AIDS awareness. He emphasized that such competitions are important as they help engage youth in spreading awareness and dispelling myths surrounding HIV/AIDS. He reiterated that HIV/AIDS is preventable and manageable through knowledge, responsible behavior, early testing, treatment adherence, and non-discrimination against those living with HIV. He encouraged students to be peer educators and advocates for change in their communities.

On this occasion, Tmt. R. Seethalakshmi formally launched an HIV/AIDS awareness poster, stressing the significance of early awareness, prevention, and a stigma-free approach. She highlighted the need for youth involvement in promoting HIV prevention. Mr. PMJF M. Selvakkumar noted the importance of educating young people, stating that platforms like Gaana songs make learning impactful. Dr. V. M. Muthuramalinga Andavar stated that awareness and prevention are crucial in controlling HIV and that engaging students creatively helps spread vital information.

Mr. E. Sundarapandian from CKNCAA and Mr. GVN Kumar emphasized the need for educational institutions to address social issues and allow students to use their skills for positive contributions. Mr. A. J. Hariharan from ICWO explained that public health awareness requires collaboration among various sectors and that initiatives focused on student’s foster long-term social responsibility.

The performances were judged by experts who recognized the creativity and clarity of the messages shared by the participants. The winners were announced: Soka Ikeda College of Arts and Science won first prize, Dr. Ambedkar Government Arts College came second, and Chevalier T. Thomas Elizabeth College for Women secured third place.