The Department of Health and Family Welfare recently organized a power point presentation on the National Tobacco Control Program at Vidyoday Public School on January 29th, 2024. The program began at 11:30am and was attended by several dignitaries, including Mis. Shaila Shamnur, a social worker for the National Tobacco Control Program, and Mis. Priyanka Batnwal, a counseling psychologist.
The event started with a prayer by students of the 8th standard, followed by an introduction and welcome by Mrs. Shubha Rao, the coordinator of standards 6-8th. Mrs. Vinutha K then read out the names of the newly formed school tobacco control committee, which includes the principal, coordinators, physical education teacher, science teachers, and student representatives. The committee members, along with the dignitaries, inaugurated the program by lighting the lamp.
Mis. Shaila Shamnur presented a power point presentation on the National Tobacco Control Program, starting with two videos highlighting the importance of exercise and the effects of passive smoking on children. She discussed the different types of tobacco and the various chemicals present in it, apart from nicotine. She also explained the harmful effects of tobacco on the body through the display of images of related diseases.
During the presentation, Mis. Shaila Shamnur engaged the students by asking them how to differentiate between a tobacco user and a non-user. The students of Vidyodaya provided the correct answer. She provided detailed information on how to quit tobacco and encouraged students to raise awareness about tobacco consumption among their families and neighbors. She also mentioned the Tobacco Cessation Centre at the district hospital Ajjarakadu, where counseling is provided for those who want to quit tobacco. Additionally, she discussed the COTPA-2003 and the associated acts, as well as the responsibilities of the school tobacco control committee.
Principal Mrs. Anitha P Raj spoke about the duties of each student as a member of the newly formed committee. She also explained the difference between nicotine-less cigarettes and those with nicotine, and the purpose behind the creation of nicotine-less cigarettes or vapes. Mrs. Vinutha K delivered the vote of thanks, and Principal Mrs. Anitha P Raj presented momentos to the guests as tokens of appreciation and love.
