Jaintia Eastern College’s Red Ribbon Club Youth Fest 2023 inspires youth to “Be Inspired, Own Your Future”

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaAugust 1, 2023

The Red Ribbon Club Youth Fest 2023, organized by Jaintia Eastern College, Khliehriat, in collaboration with Meghalaya AIDS Control Society (MACS), Kyrmen Foundation, Jaintia Hills Cement Manufacturers Association, and co-sponsored by Meghalaya Cooperative Bank and Canara Bank, successfully concluded on July 29.

The two-day event, held at Jaintia Eastern College campus, witnessed enthusiastic participation from 08 colleges, 07 higher schools, and 502 students from East and West Jaintia Hills District.

Under the theme “Be Inspired, Own Your Future,” the festival aimed to address important issues such as HIV/AIDS, drug abuse, and unemployment, instilling hope and encouraging responsible behavior among the youth.

The objectives of the event were multifaceted, focusing on comprehensive knowledge about HIV/AIDS and STI/RTI, addressing misconceptions about HIV/AIDS, promoting safe sexual behavior, supporting individuals living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA), encouraging voluntary HIV testing, and motivating youth for voluntary blood donation.

The festival commenced with a grand inauguration on July 28, graced by Abhilash Baranwal, IAS, Deputy Commissioner of East Jaintia Hills District, who urged the youth to take charge of their future and make a positive impact in society. P Syrpailin Phawa, Asst Professor of the History Department, delivered a thought-provoking keynote address emphasizing resilience in the face of challenges.

The festival featured various activities, including the Abhivyakti – The Red Show (Drama) Competition, where students showcased their talents and creativity while spreading awareness about HIV/AIDS. Winners of the Abhivyakti competition were awarded for their outstanding performances, with Shangpung College, Shangpung securing the First Prize.

To promote personality development and motivation, a special lecture was organized, with Sevendar Dkhar, Asst Professor of Don Bosco College, Byndihati, serving as the resource person.

Day two of the festival witnessed the Marathon 5 km (Red Run), promoting fitness and unity among the participants. The Red Ribbon Club Quiz Competition also saw intense competition among 15 teams from different institutions, with Jaintia Eastern College’s team emerging victorious.

The festival’s closing ceremony, held on July 29, was graced by Wailadmiki Shylla, Jowai legislator and Chairman, MUDA, Shillong, who commended the organizers for their efforts in creating awareness about HIV/AIDS and other diseases. Dr. B. Decruse, Project Director, MACS, Shillong, expressed hope that the festival’s impact would lead to increased knowledge and awareness about HIV/AIDS, STI, and RTI among the youth.

The festival culminated with the felicitation of winners with cash prizes and certificates by the Chief Guest and Guest of Honors. The top performers will represent Jaintia Hills District (East & West) at the state level RRC events.

The Red Ribbon Club Youth Fest 2023 proved to be a transformative experience for the participants, inspiring them to take charge of their futures while advocating for positive change in their communities. With the collective efforts of all stakeholders, the festival successfully achieved its mission of empowering youth to “Be Inspired, Own Your Future.