HIV screening, counselling camps planned in VTU colleges

Visvesvaraya Technological University colleges will host integrated health camps under the Mobilisation for AIDS Suraksha (MAS) programme focusing on HIV awareness, testing, and counselling.

Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society (KSAPS) requested VTU to facilitate camps across its 220+ affiliated colleges with around 3 lakh students.

KSAPS estimates 1 lakh people live with HIV in Karnataka, with nearly 54,000 undiagnosed, and aims to bridge this gap through expanded testing.

A QR code-based 'know your HIV status' self-risk assessment tool will be displayed on campuses for confidential risk evaluation and access to support services.

VTU vice-chancellor Prof S Vidyashankar emphasized confidentiality and student dignity in conducting the initiative.