Shillong, Mar 22: Reinforcing the importance of behaviour change in achieving lasting cleanliness and improved health outcomes, the Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), Shillong, organised a special publicity programme on ‘Swachhata and Nutrition’ at Laitkor Presbyterian Secondary School on March 20.
The programme aimed to sensitise students about the importance of hygiene, sanitation and balanced nutrition, while encouraging them to adopt responsible practices in their daily lives.
Addressing the gathering, Womber Shadap from the Urban Affairs Department elaborated on the vision and objectives of the Swachh Bharat Mission. He highlighted that the mission is not limited to infrastructure development but focuses on sustained behavioural change among citizens. Stressing concepts like segregation at source, zero littering and ‘My Waste, My Responsibility’, he encouraged students to take ownership of cleanliness in their homes and surroundings.
Making the session interactive, he engaged students in a lively discussion on their daily habits related to waste disposal and hygiene. Shadap urged them to act as ambassadors of change within their families and communities.
O Sumer, District Health and Education Officer, delivered an informative and interactive session on nutrition. She emphasised the importance of a balanced diet, healthy eating habits and the inclusion of locally available nutritious food for overall growth and development. She also highlighted the significance of the Weekly Iron and Folic Acid Supplementation (WIFS) programme in preventing anaemia among adolescents and promoting better health and concentration levels.
The programme was graced by the school’s headmistress, Rupaia Pala, who appreciated the initiative and encouraged students to consistently practice hygiene and adopt nutritious dietary habits.
As part of the programme, quiz and art competitions on Swachhata and nutrition were conducted to strengthen awareness among students with prizes for the winners.
