Training of Trainers for Medical Students and Awareness Project on the Voluntary Counseling and Testing Center

POZİTİF İZ
8 saat önce
2 dakikada okunur

Duration: August – December 2025

Budget: TRY 428,000

Funder: Gilead

Objective, Goals, and Methodology

The project aimed to update Bahçeşehir University students’ knowledge on HIV, raise awareness about HIV testing and prevention methods, and increase the visibility of the Voluntary Counseling and Testing Center (VCTC) operating within the university. It also sought to reduce stigmatizing attitudes among healthcare professionals and students, and to strengthen young people’s access to accurate information and their uptake of HIV testing.

The project methodology was implemented in three phases:

A two-day training of trainers was delivered to 15 medical students, covering HIV, testing, prevention, advocacy, and campaign development.
University-wide seminars open to all faculties were organized to share information on HIV, testing experiences, and VCTC services.
Awareness of anonymous HIV testing on campus was increased.

Through these activities, both individual awareness and the recognition of the VCTC were strengthened.

Outputs

Capacity building: The knowledge level of 15 healthcare students regarding the medical, social, and rights-based dimensions of HIV increased significantly; participants gained the capacity to conduct peer education.
Multiplier effect: Presentations and materials prepared by the trained students reached a broader student network across the university and through student clubs.
Awareness and knowledge sharing: Panels held at the university, with participation from students of different faculties, contributed to the dissemination of accurate information on HIV and encouraged critical reflection on stigma and misconceptions.
VCTC visibility: Thanks to on-campus and digital promotion, awareness of the VCTC increased, and a rise was observed in applications for free, confidential, and anonymous testing services.
Overall impact: While strengthening young people’s knowledge and awareness of HIV, the project produced sustainable and holistic outcomes that increased the visibility of VCTC services.