SCDI presents to readers the outstanding news of June 2025.

SCDI visited MHC to learn about harm reduction approaches

In June, SCDI’s Harm Reduction and Addiction Treatment team joined a regional exchange coordinated by Hanoi Medical University, visiting Men’s Health Cambodia (MHC). The trip fostered collaboration among organizations addressing chemsex-related harm reduction in Southeast Asia.

Participants explored MHC’s community outreach, mental health services, and challenges in supporting vulnerable groups. This visit aligned with SCDI’s ongoing harm reduction project in Vietnam, funded by ViiV Healthcare, focusing on high-risk populations such as people who use drugs, sex workers, MSM, and transgender individuals.

Photo: Members of SCDI’s Harm Reduction and Addiction Treatment visit Men’s Health Cambodia (MHC), a community-based organization in Cambodia.

The exchange provided valuable insights on integrating mental health care into harm reduction and strengthening regional collaboration to support at-risk communities effectively.

Read more about this activity here.

SCDI hosts delegation to discuss tuberculosis efforts in Vietnam

In June, SCDI welcomed representatives from Global Affairs Canada and the UK FCDO to discuss tuberculosis prevention in Vietnam. The event involved local health partners, the CSET network, and individuals affected by TB from project sites in Đắk Lắk, Gia Lai, and Nghệ An.

Discussions highlighted barriers like stigma, economic hardship, and limited healthcare access in remote areas. SCDI’s work with the CSET network has improved early TB detection, treatment adherence, and community support.

Photo: Overview of delegates at the meeting

The delegation emphasized the importance of people-centered approaches and community involvement in ending TB, showcasing the collective power of partnership and compassion.

Read more about this activity here.

SCDI held an international symposium to review the comprehensive intervention program for people who use drugs

On June 17–18, SCDI held a symposium in Ninh Bình to review the comprehensive intervention program for people who use drugs. Representatives from health agencies, partner organizations, and vulnerable groups discussed substance use trends, project outcomes, and future harm reduction strategies.

Mental health emerged as a key theme, with experts stressing its role in sustainable recovery. Success stories included collaborations between community groups and hospitals, which improved follow-up rates and treatment support.

Photo: Participants gathered for a group photo as the symposium ended

The event underscored the need for holistic ecosystems combining mental health care, social reintegration, and tailored interventions to address root causes.

Read more about this activity here.

SCDI participated in the REGENERATE Leadership & Learning Institute on Gender Justice & Sexual Rights

From June 15–20, SCDI participated in the REGENERATE Leadership & Learning Institute organized by APCASO in Bangkok, alongside over 35 regional organizations. Attendees discussed different aspects of sexual health, social inclusion, and public health impacts on vulnerable populations.

The training encouraged action planning, transformative thinking, and sustainable community-driven change. Participants gained new perspectives on designing inclusive health programs addressing diverse needs.

Photo: SCDI members and other representatives from Vietnam at the training course

Read more about this activity here.

SCDI and Nghe An strengthen collaboration on mental health, HIV/AIDS, and tuberculosis

On June 25, SCDI and Nghệ An’s Department of Health held a coordination meeting in Vinh City to enhance intersectoral collaboration in mental health, HIV/AIDS, and TB programs. The event brought together provincial and district health representatives, Methadone treatment centers, private healthcare providers, and community groups.

Discussions centered on improving service referral mechanisms, particularly in remote areas with limited resources. In the first half of 2025, SCDI partnered with Nghệ An health units to implement projects under the Global Fund for HIV/AIDS and TB, reaching over 3,100 people with prevention measures like clean syringes and behavioral counseling. Key populations included MSM (1,032), PWUD (1,335), FSW (500), and TG individuals (145).

Photo: Ms. Nguyen Minh Trang, Manager of SCDI's Children & Youth Program and Addiction Treatment & Harm Reduction Program, introducing about SCDI and the activities that we have been implementing in Nghe An since 2015.

Mental health for young stimulant users also emerged as a pressing issue, requiring integrated care models involving health services, families, and communities. Local health leaders praised SCDI’s contributions and encouraged further project expansion, resource support, and training initiatives.

The meeting reinforced the need for sustainable community health models, expanded PrEP access, and strengthened Methadone treatment networks in remote districts.

Read more about this activity here.

Equipping children in the Breaking the Cycle Project with essential skills to prevent drowning

SCDI partnered with tesa Site Hải Phòng to host a life skills session on drowning prevention for children in the “Breaking the Cycle” project. The session educated children on drowning risks, swimming safety, and self-rescue techniques through engaging activities.

Parents actively participated, gaining tools to help protect their children from drowning. This initiative emphasized self-awareness and the role of family in preventing accidents.

Photo: The children during an activity of the extracurricular session

Read more about this activity here.

Evaluation of the Global Fund Project to Fight HIV/AIDS in Quang Ninh and Hai Phong

On June 26–27, the supervisory team of the Global Fund Project to Fight HIV/AIDS, implemented by SCDI under VUSTA's management, met with the CDCs and community-based organizations (CBOs) in Quang Ninh and Hai Phong to evaluate the project’s progress.

SCDI presented its 2025 implementation report, highlighting effective intervention models and their impact on reaching high-risk groups, supporting treatment adherence, and reducing HIV-related stigma. The supervisory team commended the outcomes and discussed ways to strengthen collaboration between VUSTA and Quang Ninh CDC.

Photo: Overview of the meeting at the Quang Ninh CDC

The Quang Ninh CDC praised the project and the efforts of community groups in addressing HIV/AIDS, emphasizing their role in achieving sustainable epidemic control.

SCDI extends heartfelt thanks to the leadership and staff of the Quang Ninh CDC and VUSTA for their support, which inspires ongoing efforts to improve HIV/AIDS interventions.

Read more about this activity here.