Tura, Oct 01: National Voluntary Blood Donation Day was observed at Don Bosco College (DBC), Tura on Thursday with an awareness and sensitization workshop on HIV/AIDS and a voluntary blood donation camp marking the programme.
The programme was organized by the National Service Scheme (NSS) and Red Ribbon Club (RRC) of DBC Tura in collaboration with the Meghalaya State Blood Transfusion Council (MSBTC), Blood Centre, Tura Civil Hospital, and Meghalaya AIDS Control Society (MACS).
The programme was graced by Smt. Tolino Chishi, IAS, SDO Tura Sadar, who inaugurated the blood donation camp in the presence of dignitaries, including senior Medical and Health officials.
Addressing the gathering, Smt. Tolino Chishi said college is a time when young people begin taking ownership of their decisions and stressed the importance of developing a habit of voluntary blood donation. She said a single unit of donated blood can save a life, adding that the shortage of blood donors in Meghalaya was not due to a lack of concern but largely due to the absence of a regular culture of voluntary donation.
Referring to the large number of people who came forward to donate blood following the 2023 Balasore train accident, she said the response demonstrated that people were willing to help in times of crisis. She also highlighted the importance of HIV/AIDS awareness among young people in enabling them to make informed choices about their health and in reducing stigma and misconceptions surrounding the disease.
Ms. Jordana Dipsera R. Marak, Assistant Professor and Nodal Officer, RRC, DBC Tura, said the programme comprised two key sessions—an awareness talk on voluntary blood donation by Lugracia M. Shullai of MSBTC and a sensitization session on HIV/AIDS by Dr. Rajamoni R. Marak, Medical Officer-in-Charge, ICTC, Tura Civil Hospital.
She said the programme was aimed at encouraging voluntary blood donation, particularly in view of the recurring shortage of blood at local blood banks, and to dispel myths and reduce stigma associated with HIV/AIDS.
Earlier, Rev. Fr. John Paul Tirkey, SDB, Vice Principal, DBC Tura, welcomed the participants and dignitaries. The observance also featured the taking of a blood donation pledge, felicitation of voluntary blood donors and a special musical performance.
