Journalists’ Competition Concludes in West Kazakhstan Region

June 23, 2026

 A competition among journalists organized by the West Kazakhstan Regional Center for HIV Prevention has come to an end. The competition was held from April 15 to June 15. As a result, the authors of the best materials were identified and the winners were awarded. The main purpose of the competition was to increase public awareness of HIV, promote preventive measures, and strengthen the role of mass media in reducing stigma and discrimination in society.

Entries were submitted in the categories “Best Article,” “Best TV Report,” “Best Social Media Video,” and “Best Program.” The competition materials widely highlighted achievements in the field of HIV prevention. In particular, journalists reported that thanks to antiretroviral therapy, people living with HIV can lead full and high-quality lives, while women living with HIV can give birth to healthy children. Special attention was also paid to the importance of early diagnosis and timely HIV testing.

The competition entries were evaluated by a jury consisting of E. Karin, correspondent of Astana TV channel, L. Quararu, Editor-in-Chief of the regional newspaper Priuralye, and N. Mustayev, Director of the West Kazakhstan Regional Center for HIV Prevention.

According to the results of the competition, M. Melnikova, senior correspondent of the Nadezhda newspaper, won the “Best Article” nomination; O. Velikiy, correspondent of Aqjaiyq TV channel, won the “Best TV Report” nomination; Zh. Koshkinbay, correspondent of Zhaiyq Press News Agency, won the “Best Social Media Video” nomination; and L. Bekbulatova, editor of Aqjaiyq TV channel, won the “Best Program” nomination.

During the ceremony, N. Mustayev, Director of the West Kazakhstan Regional Center for HIV Prevention, emphasized the important role of mass media in informing the public about HIV prevention issues.

“Mass media play a special role in HIV prevention efforts. High-quality and responsible journalism contributes not only to increasing public awareness, but also to reducing stigma and discrimination in society,” said N. Mustayev.

Prior to the award ceremony, an information seminar for journalists was organized. During the seminar, E. Khafizova, epidemiologist at the West Kazakhstan Regional Center for HIV Prevention, spoke about modern terminology recommended for reporting on HIV-related topics in the media and highlighted the importance of using accurate and non-discriminatory language. Participants were also informed about the differences between HIV and AIDS and received answers to their questions.

At the end of the event, the winners were awarded diplomas and cash prizes, while the most active participants received letters of appreciation.

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