Bukit Jalil, 26 November 2024 – In honour of solidarity for World AIDS Day, IMU University, in collaboration with the Federation of Reproductive Health Associations, Malaysia (FRHAM), hosted an impactful awareness event focused on HIV education and advocacy among university students. This year’s theme, “Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right,” highlighted the importance of empowering individuals to take control of their health and exercise their rights to prevention, treatment, and care.
Held at the IMU Bukit Jalil campus, the event featured a forum that fostered dialogue on critical issues surrounding HIV/AIDS. Moderated by Dr Rabiah Adawiah, the panel included esteemed speakers:
– Dr Kamal Kenny Saravanan (Federation of Reproductive Health Associations, Malaysia (FRHAM) Chairperson)
– Prof Dr James Koh Kwee Choy (IMU University)
– Dr Teoh Gaik Kin (IMU University)
– Dr A Vickneswari Ayadurai (Malaysia Ireland Training Program)
The forum provided attendees an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions on key issues surrounding HIV/AIDS, including stigma reduction, the importance of health rights, and the role of education in prevention. Each speaker brought valuable insights from their respective fields, inspiring students and the community to take proactive steps in safeguarding their health and fostering inclusive practices.
Educating and Empowering the Community
Prof Dr Haslee Sharil, Dean of the School of Psychology and Social Sciences at IMU, emphasised the significance of awareness days like World AIDS Day in educating and empowering individuals.
“Health awareness is a powerful tool. It empowers people to make informed decisions, seek necessary care, and understand their rights to prevention, treatment, and support. These initiatives break down barriers and create a more informed and compassionate society.” said Prof Dr Sharil.
Prof Dr Sharil also highlighted IMU’s innovative approach to fostering health awareness through its Bachelor of Communication with Health (BCOMH) programme.
This programme integrates real-world, industry-driven projects, offering students hands-on experience in crafting and delivering impactful health communication strategies. Collaborations with partners like FRHAM and other industry collaborators, allow students to tackle real-world issues, fostering both advocacy and professional growth.
A Platform for the Future of Health Advocacy
World AIDS Day 2024 at IMU not only raised awareness about HIV/AIDS but also highlighted the university’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of healthcare communicators. The event demonstrated how education, collaboration, and advocacy intersect to address pressing healthcare challenges effectively. As IMU continues to lead in health-focused education, the university looks forward to welcoming more passionate students eager to make a meaningful difference through the transformative power of communication.
Written by Qamar Rahman
Edited by Dr Arlini binti Alias