CRC goes digital to promote HIV/AIDS awareness
THE Cambodian Red Cross (CRC) has noted a promising trend: Cambodians are becoming significantly more attuned to technological advancements and more knowledgeable about HIV/AIDS.
CRC first deputy secretary-general Men Neary Sopheak made the remarks during an interview for the 48th National Championship Programme, held recently to highlight its 2023’s achievements and set the work direction for 2024, according to a January 3 CRC social media post.
“We have seen that people’s awareness of technology, such as smartphones for following news, has increased. Additionally, with an improved understanding of HIV/AIDS issues, they are capable of curbing the spread of HIV. While not directly involved, they continue to stay informed about HIV news in Cambodia,” she said.
The CRC and the working group of the National Championship are dedicated to collaborating with the government to end the disease by 2025.
Neary Sopheak said the working group functions as a mechanism established by CRC president Bun Rany in 2019 and is divided into two sections.
“The first group focuses on HIV/ AIDS issues while the other concentrates on the health of mothers, infants and children. To facilitate coordinated efforts … Rany combined the two into the National Championship group,” she explained.
She indicated that the group would identify and collaboratively address new challenges.
She added that the CRC is persistently enhancing its working processes and updating tasks, noting that the group remained active even during the pandemic.
Rany, also a prominent leader in the Asia Pacific Leadership Forum on HIV/AIDS and Development, urged individuals to remain vigilant in curbing the spread of HIV, contributing to the development of a nation free from the threat of the disease.
“To successfully end HIV/AIDS, we require greater participation and attention from all relevant parties as Cambodia continues to execute a comprehensive response to [the issue]. We have not left anyone behind; rather, we have devised means to educate them and disseminate information about the issues in the digital age,” she added.