SHILLONG: A one-day Youth Health Festival was organised by the Office of the District Medical and Health Officer, East Khasi Hills (EKH), Shillong, under the aegis of National Health Mission under Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) – a National Adolescent Health Programme, at the Swami Vivekananda Auditorium, Sohra on Tuesday.
The programme, which focused on the theme ‘Healthy Body, Smart Mind’, was held with an objective to create awareness and educate the youth about various interventions the programme is implementing.
The programme addressed six core priorities of adolescents, viz. reproductive and sexual health including HIV/AIDS, drug abuse, mental health, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), gender equality/violence and injuries, and nutrition.
A number of schools under Sohra Civil Sub-Division along with representatives from the Department of Health and various other line departments participated in the awareness event. Various programmes were also conducted.
Giri Prasad, Sub-Divisional Police Officer, Sohra, who was the chief guest, said that the youth, as they grow older, will be facing a lot of changes and influences, which can either be positive or negative, adding that they are more prone to various kinds of experimentations.
Hence, he urged the youth to take advantage of programmes such as this, which will make them well-informed, confident, and empower them in making responsible and positive decisions.
Others who were present during the programme include Additional DMHO, EKH, Dr Adreena Lyngdoh; In-Charge, Sohra CHC, Dr K Kharnaior; Senior M&HO, Sohra CHC, Dr GE Swett; Officer-in-Charge, Sohra PS, M Rymbai; Psychologist, DMHP, NHM, Shillong, Truman Basaiawmoit; among others.
Earlier in the day, open quiz competition, debate competition on ‘Social Media — A Boon to Social life’, demonstration on fitness tips through Zumba and educational fun games, talent shows, among others, were also held.
The winners were later awarded during the concluding session of the festival.
