Chief Minister of Assam, Honorable Tarun Gogoi, welcomes TeachAids
“I firmly believe that proper education and awareness are the only ways to conquer the fear and stigma associated with HIV.” – Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi
As a native of Assam, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi is known for his humility and deep understanding of the needs of his people. In the decade since taking office and throughout his flourishing political career, he has worked relentlessly to promote positive change across all sectors. Chief Minister Gogoi is often quoted for believing that “development” is his sole mantra. He is a model leader who has worked to improve fiscal discipline, advance industrial productivity, and promote safety.
For years now, Chief Minister Gogoi’s strategy for development has included a critical focus on addressing the health needs and improving the health practices of his people. Under his direction, both the maternal mortality and infant mortality rates in the state have declined significantly. In addition to continuing his support on many health initiatives, Chief Minister Gogoi plans to increase the momentum around HIV prevention throughout his state.
Earlier this year, Chief Minister Gogoi welcomed the TeachAids team to his home in Guwahati, Assam to discuss issues around communicable diseases and ways to improve HIV prevention education in India and other nations. It was at this meeting that Chief Minister Gogoi joined the team of interdisciplinary experts at TeachAids and formally endorsed the localization and distribution of the TeachAids research-based materials to be implemented across Assam.
During this trip, Chief Minister Gogoi has promised to record a special video “Message of Hope” which will be integrated into the CD-ROM and DVD versions of the animated materials. As part of his message, Gogoi addressed misconceptions about HIV and AIDS and emphasized the importance and power of prevention. In partnership with state leaders, including experts at the Assam State AIDS Control Society, the TeachAids materials will be localized and integrated into schools, counseling facilities, hospitals, and NGOs. They will incorporate the voices of Assam’s most celebrated cultural icons and developed in Axomiya, the state’s official language.
“We were very impressed with the high level of efficacy demonstrated by these materials and are confident that they will make a big difference in our HIV prevention efforts throughout the state.” – Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi
TeachAids is pleased to welcome the support of leaders such as the honorable Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi. His tireless efforts to improve social welfare in his state and beyond, despite the many challenges, is truly commendable. We are humbled to support his efforts to improve healthcare in Assam through preventive health and education services.
Photo: Chief Minister of Assam, Tarun Gogoi, welcomes TeachAids to his residence in Guwahati, Assam, India.