World AIDS Day Campaign Held in Kokshetau

December 1, 2025

The Akmola region is concluding a series of events dedicated to World AIDS Day.

The culmination of the regional information campaign was the traditional youth event, which brought together around 600 school and university students at the Kokshetau Palace of Culture on 1 December 2025.

The red ribbon — the global symbol of solidarity with people living with HIV and of the AIDS response — adorned the clothing of most participants that day. Even before the official programme began, young people were actively engaged: some left warm messages and words of support on a symbolic “heart of solidarity” for people living with HIV, while others reviewed educational materials and discussed important facts about HIV with their peers.

In the palace foyer, everyone interested could take a rapid HIV test and learn their status — more than 30 people took advantage of this opportunity.

The main part of the event included a concert programme and an informational session on HIV.
In his welcoming remarks, Kurmanbek Burmaganov, Deputy Chief Physician of the Regional Center, thanked young participants for their engagement, emphasized the importance of combating stigma and stereotypes, and noted that such initiatives help foster responsible attitudes toward personal health.

During the event, letters of appreciation for contributions to HIV prevention were presented to:

Saniya Idrisova, editor of KOKSHE TV;

Anastasia Afanasyeva, HIV focal physician of the Astrakhan district;

the Youth Health Center of Panacea Clinic LLP;

the M. Gabdullin Civil Protection Academy;

the “Arman” Children’s and Youth Creativity Center; and

the Social Rehabilitation Unit of the Regional Mental Health Center.

It is worth noting that from 10 November to 10 December, the region has been running a month-long campaign dedicated to World AIDS Day. The main goal is to raise public awareness about HIV, increase knowledge, and promote a culture of responsibility for personal and public health.

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