[Mt. Eriama Campus, Port Moresby – 25 March 2025] – IBS College of TVET recently hosted an HIV/AIDS Awareness and First Aid Training Program to help students learn important health information and workplace safety skills. Over three days, the sessions bordered on awareness, prevention, and emergency response, giving students the knowledge they need to handle situations both at work and in daily life.

The HIV/AIDS Awareness Program took place on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, followed by the First Aid Training Program, divided into two sessions on Monday, March 17, and Tuesday, March 18, 2025. The sessions were held at IBS College of TVET, Mt. Eriama Campus, with approximately 110 students from Certificate III and Certificate IV programs in Business, Accounting, Human Resource Management, and Information Technology actively participated.

Bridging Theory and Practice

Facilitated by the School of Business Management, the sessions were led by Dr. Muthuprabha for the HIV/AIDS Awareness Program and Sister Dolly Kondowa for the First Aid Training Program. Students took part in discussions and engaged in role-play activities that simulated health emergencies. This hands-on approach was aimed at helping participants better understand workplace health risks, safety procedures, and ethical responsibilities in a practical way.

HIV/AIDS education is an elemental part of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) training. The deeper the awareness, the better the students understand how the virus affects individuals, communities, and businesses. The program showed that awareness and prevention are central to breaking social stigmas and creating workplaces where employees feel supported without the fear of discrimination.

The First Aid Training Program, on the other hand, taught students life-saving skills that remain integral in any type of workplace environment. From performing CPR to handling injuries, the sessions gave students the confidence to act quickly in emergencies. Many participants appreciated the hands-on approach, as it will allow them to practice what they learned in actual situations.

Expanding the Initiative: The Fight Against TB and HIV/AIDS

As part of its ongoing efforts to promote health-conscious workplaces, IBS College of TVET plans to expand this program for future student intakes. One key addition will be the introduction of a Tuberculosis (TB) Awareness Program, recognizing TB as another major public health concern. Like HIV/AIDS, TB is a leading cause of illness and death worldwide, and raising awareness can help with early detection and prevention.

The college also plans to strengthen its connections with the industry by inviting guest speakers and medical professionals to share their knowledge and real-life experiences. Engaging with industry experts is one way of helping students better understand how health and safety rules are applied in real workplaces.

Health, Safety, and Professional Growth

IBS College of TVET is deeply invested in developing skilled professionals who are knowledgeable, responsible, and proactive about health and safety, hence, the initiation of these programs. In essence, these programs have been thought-up to teach students about workplace policies so that they become capable of making informed decisions that will support their future careers and contribute to the well-being of their respective societies.

The success of the HIV/AIDS Awareness and First Aid Training Program shows how education can help in addressing public health challenges in a major way. When individuals, communities, and organizations work together, they can create safer and healthier environments for everyone. IBS College of TVET is proud to have led this initiative and looks forward to expanding its reach in the future.

About IBS College of TVET

IBS College of TVET offers hands-on training that meets the needs of industries, preparing students for jobs or career growth. Established over 30 years ago, it provides practical programs in Business, Accounting, IT, and Human Resources. The college helps students develop both skills and personal growth, offering programs for Grade 10 and 12 graduates. With experienced teachers and courses approved by industry standards, IBS College of TVET helps students improve their career opportunities. For more details, visit their website: IBS College of TVET.

PC: IBSU Media
Editing & Narrative Direction: IBSU LIBrary & Information