Kohima: The Salvatus Christian Society organized an inter-school painting competition on June 18 at Cornerstone Higher Secondary School in Zunheboto. The event, which focused on the theme of awareness regarding injecting drug abuse, drew participants from 11 different local schools.
Project Director Linoto P. Awomi served as the theme speaker for the gathering. She emphasized the severe toll that substance abuse takes on the community, noting that it remains a critical issue for families and individuals alike. "In our present context, one of the most serious issues affecting individuals, families and the community as a whole is injecting drug abuse," Awomi stated.
The competition encouraged students to use artistic expression to share messages about recovery, prevention, and healthy lifestyle choices. Beyond the creative challenge, the event served as a platform to educate youth on the health risks associated with unsafe injecting practices, such as the transmission of HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. Awomi also advocated for social change, urging the public to replace stigma and judgment with support for those in recovery. "Rather than judging them, we must continue to show compassion, love and support throughout their journey of recovery," she added.
The program opened with an invocation led by Zonal Supervisor Ruth Zhimo. Judges for the competition included Aloka Sumi, Ghukha K. Achumi, and Linoto P. Awomi. Apuvi from Cornerstone Higher Secondary School took first place, followed by Kika from Step by Step School in second place and Yeputoli from Olympic Higher Secondary School in third.
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