Students Against HIV: Dialogue, Creativity, and Support

December 2, 2025

The Karaganda Regional AIDS Center, in collaboration with the NGO “Doverie” (Trust) and the People’s Party of Kazakhstan, held a vibrant HIV awareness event — the “HIV Party” — for university and college students. The aim of the event was to increase young people’s awareness of HIV prevention and to promote tolerance and understanding toward people living with HIV.

A special guest at the event was Aisulu Suleimenova, a Paralympic athlete, who inspired students with her example of strength, resilience, and a positive outlook on life despite challenges.

Zoya Ruzhnikova, a representative of the NGO “Shapagat”, spoke about the experiences of people living with HIV, warned youth about risky behavior, and emphasized that HIV is not transmitted through everyday contact, meaning there should be no prejudice or discrimination.

A mobile testing point was also available at the venue, where participants could undergo free and confidential rapid HIV testing.

As part of the event, the organizers announced the results of a student video contest on HIV prevention and the promotion of tolerance.

First place was awarded to a second-year group from “Medical Intercollege” for their short film “Experiment.”

Second place went to the volunteer team of Zheleznodorozhny College.

Third place was given to Seva Perepelitsyn, a student from Medical Intercollege, for an animated short film.

The winners received gift certificates to electronics stores, and audience choice awards were also presented. The best works were screened during the event.

In the concluding part of the event, students engaged in an open dialogue, asking questions about HIV, to which Dr. Olga Orlova, an infectious disease specialist from the AIDS Center, provided clear and detailed answers.

The event was held under the UNAIDS slogan “From Challenges to Change: Transforming the HIV Response,” highlighting the importance of joint efforts in combating HIV and making informed choices in favor of health and solidarity.

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