Capacity building training for HIV-infected women

By TRN Online, Kathamdnu, July 30: Training on empowerment and capacity building has been provided to develop the leadership of HIV-infected women.

Capacity-building training was provided to HIV-infected women in a joint initiative organized by the University of the Fraser Valley in Canada and jointly organized by  Punarnava Plus and Baby Homes.

During the event, University of the Fraser Valley Professor Dr Rita Dhungel said that the situation of HIV-infected women in Nepal is complex.

She said that HIV-infected women face problems ranging from coming out in the community to getting employment and even medical treatment.

She said that the recent cut in funding by the US agency has taken away the jobs of infected women and has also affected their daily livelihood.

Similarly, psychologist UP Upreti said that there needs to be safe economic, social, and psychosocial conditions for HIV-infected women.

Associate Professor Madhav Adhikari made a presentation on the financial situation of infected women and suggested that they engage in skill-based work to improve their financial situation.

Similarly, Mira Kunwar stressed that HIV-infected women have to endure hateful behavior even from their families, communities, and relatives. 

Dr Nagendra Thagunna made a presentation on the mental health condition of HIV-infected women.

Yashoda Timilsina presented on the legal status of infected women and Dr Uddhav Puri on the role of media. 

28 HIV-infected women participated in the program.