Interview Times 
World AIDS Awareness Day was commemorated with fervor and purpose at SCB Medical College, marking an essential moment in rallying support and raising awareness about HIV/AIDS. The event, hosted at the ART Plus Centre in conjunction with the Student Union, saw the inauguration by the esteemed Prof. Sudhanshu Sekhar Mishra. The program witnessed an impressive array of distinguished guests including Prof. Dr. Jayanta Panda, Nodal Officer of the ART Plus Centre, Prof. Pravaka Mishra, HOD Paediatrics, Prof. Dharitri Mohapatra, HOD Microbiology, Sri Panchanan Behera, Finance Officer, and other respected figures like Prof. Tushar Kar, Prof. Sarada Swain, and Dr. Sanjay Patnaik.
Over a hundred medical students and doctors actively participated in the event, joined by nursing officers and more than 30 HIV-positive patients. The gathering served as a platform to highlight the significance of HIV awareness, echoing this year’s poignant theme: “Let Communities Lead”. Notably, Dr. Bijay Kumar Behera was felicitated for his outstanding contributions and exemplary work in HIV medicine upon his superannuation.
The event was not just about recognition; it was about practical support. HIV-positive patients were provided with bus passes, facilitating free travel from their residences to the ART centres, underscoring a commitment to ensuring access to treatment and care.
The program’s initiatives extended beyond formal discussions, engaging the community through impactful means. Undergraduate students organized a rally and performed a NUKAD street play, effectively disseminating essential HIV awareness messages.
The integral role played by the Student Union, led by President Sri OMM Swayam Prakas Routray, and Honorary Secretary Mr. Bibhas Sahu, in coordinating and facilitating the event was commendable. The synergy between the staff of the ART Centre and the enthusiastic participation of students and medical professionals illustrated a collective dedication toward combating HIV/AIDS.
In summary, the World AIDS Awareness Day celebration at SCB Medical College served as an empowering platform, uniting diverse stakeholders in their commitment to combating HIV/AIDS, fostering community-driven initiatives, and honoring exceptional contributions in the field of HIV medicine.
