Conference “AIDS: Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow”
“At the initiative of 3rd- and 4th-year students of the H. Dosmukhamedov School of Public Health, and within the framework of Sustainable Development Goal 3 — ‘Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages’ — a scientific and practical conference titled ‘AIDS: Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow’ was held on December 1, 2025, at the Almaty Medical College with the participation of 150 students.”
The conference opened with welcoming remarks delivered by the senior curator of the H. Dosmukhamedov School of Public Health, Zh.B. Beisenbinova. In her address, she emphasized the evolution of the fight against AIDS — from the early years of scientific uncertainty and fear of the unknown to the present, when effective therapy, early diagnosis, and access to reliable information allow people living with HIV to lead full and productive lives. She also highlighted that future progress in prevention and reducing incidence depends directly on the awareness of young people, their informed decision-making, responsible attitudes toward their own health, and their willingness to counteract stigma.
During the conference, Assistant Professor G.S. Nugumanova presented an informative and scientifically grounded report titled “HIV/AIDS: Current Status and Prevention.” In her presentation, she covered global and national epidemiological trends, modern approaches to treatment and prevention, and the importance of early detection and patient referral pathways. Special attention was given to new PrEP and PEP strategies, the role of digital technologies in epidemiological surveillance, and the need to combat stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV. The report provided students with up-to-date, evidence-based information and shaped a comprehensive understanding of current challenges and prospects in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Fourth-year students presented video materials aimed at combating stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV.
Third-year students Amina Nurkaim and Eldana Orynbas introduced an electronic educational platform and a series of podcasts, sharing their experience in disseminating preventive content through social media and improving youth health literacy.
The conference broadened students’ knowledge and deepened their understanding of HIV transmission routes, prevention methods, and treatment opportunities. The event also served as an effective platform for promoting a culture of responsible health behavior and reducing stigma and misconceptions in society.
Significant contributions to the preparation and organization of the event were made by the faculty of the Department of Epidemiology with a Course on HIV Infection and Infection Control — G.S. Nugumanova, Zh.B. Beisenbinova, K.N. Alimkhanova, L.Zh. Alekesheva, L.Zh. Temirbayeva, as well as representatives of the Almaty Medical College — L.D. Alibekova, U.A. Tazhiyeva.
