Correspondent
WOKHA, OCT 9 (NPN): To address adolescent health and well being needs and promote informed discussions on challenges of growing up, the Lotha Students’ Union (LSU) organised an adolescent health sensitisation programme at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV), Chukitong on October 9. The programme focused on mental health, puberty, personal safety, healthy relationships, and stigma surrounding adolescent health.
Held under the theme “Adolescence Without Stigma: Growing Up Informed- Gender Inclusive Adolescent Health and Well being Sensitisation Programme,” the event featured resource persons from the District Medical and Mental Health Department (DMMHD), Wokha, and Sakhi One Stop Centre (OSC), Wokha.
EAC Wokha, Sangmou Khiamniungan, spoke on stigma and peer pressure, encouraging students to make informed decisions and share growing up experiences with trusted individuals. Referring to stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS, he urged students not to discriminate against people living with diseases and stressed treating everyone with dignity and compassion.
Dr. Wothungo Jami, Psychiatrist, DMMHD Wokha, highlighted stress management, emotional awareness and the importance of seeking help when facing psychological challenges. He also discussed signs of good mental health and types of peer pressure.
B. Nganom Buchem, Adolescent Health Counsellor, spoke on boundaries, respect, consent and healthy relationships, emphasising personal boundaries and mutual respect. Thungbeni Kikon, Centre Administrator, Sakhi OSC, sensitised students on the POCSO Act and child protection, including recognising inappropriate behaviour, understanding personal boundaries and approaching trusted adults when unsafe.
Dr. Visazotuo Yano, General Surgeon, DMMHD Wokha, addressed puberty and boys’ health, explaining physical and emotional changes during adolescence and the importance of personal hygiene.
Dr. Benchumi Y. Humtsoe, Junior Specialist (Obstetrics & Gynaecology), spoke on menstrual health, hygiene and teenage pregnancy prevention, stressing reproductive health awareness and informed decision making.
An interactive session allowed students to raise questions on mental health, stress, peer pressure and personal challenges, with resource persons encouraging them to seek guidance from trusted individuals and professionals.
The programme began with a welcome address by LSU Women Coordinator, Lijano R. Ezung, and concluded with a vote of thanks by LSU Debating & Symposium Secretary, C. Zuchamo Ngullie.