LHAKSAM, a Civil Society Organisation of people living with HIV/AIDS have set out on a mission. They are travelling across the country creating awareness and educating students and people on HIV/AIDS.
The members of LHAKSAM started their campaign yesterday from Wangdicholing Lower Secondary School in Bumthang. Students were made to understand the difference between HIV and AIDS, the mode of transmission and its prevention.
The members shared their experiences of living with the disease. The Executive Director of LHAKSAM, Wangda Dorji, said the initiative was aimed at reducing stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS. He said it is also to garner greater participation from the people and other stakeholders in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
“In the past forget about sitting near a person living with HIV/AIDS, I would not even dare to look at them. Today, they are here and educated us on HIV/AIDS and I hope to help people living with HIV/AIDS in the future,” said Tenzin Rabgay, a student.
The LHAKSAM has 107 members including 10 children between 6 months to 16 years. The team will be carrying out similar advocacy campaign in eight other dzongkhags. It is being funded by the UNDP.
