The Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), Shillong organised a special awareness programme at Hubert Memorial Higher Secondary School, Umpling in East Khasi Hills District today. Conducted as part of the Swachhata Hi Seva, Poshan Maah, and Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign observed across the country, the programme today gathered students, teachers, and the general public to spread awareness on the need for cleanliness, nutrition, and conservation of the environment.
On the occasion, Principal, Hubert Memorial HS School, Sister Julieta Lyngdoh Lungkhoi, appreciated CBC Shillong for providing valuable exposure to the younger generation and also bringing students, teachers, and community members together. She noted that such initiatives provide knowledge beyond the textbooks. She urged the students to learn the lessons imparted during the programme and encouraged them to become responsible citizens who care for health, community, and environment.
District Health Education Officer (DHEO), East Khasi Hills, Kong O. Sumer, highlighted the significance of nutrition in building a healthier society. Proper nutrition is the foundation of physical growth, cognitive development, and disease prevention, particularly among children and young adults, she said.
Kong Sumer drew attention to anaemia, which has been growing among school students, especially adolescent girls. She explained how iron deficiency can lead to fatigue, lack of concentration, and poor academic performance. She suggested regular intake of iron-rich foods like green leafy vegetables, pulses, jaggery, meat, and locally available nutritious produce. She underlined the importance of regular health check-ups, deworming, and awareness among parents and teachers to ensure early detection and timely intervention. “A nourished body leads to an active mind,” she reminded the students, emphasising that good health and academic success go hand in hand.
As part of the programme, art competitions were organised among students in two separate categories – Swachhata and Nutrition. Students showcased their creativity through colourful posters and drawings. Entries featured green surroundings, and slogans urging collective responsibility for a cleaner society. In the nutrition category, students highlighted the importance of balanced diets, showing images of fruits, vegetables, grains, and healthy meals. A quiz competition was also conducted.
Prizes were awarded to the winners of the art and quiz competitions, and certificates were provided to all participants, recognising their efforts and encouraging them to take forward the message of the campaigns.
A plantation drive was carried out in the school premises under the banner of Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam. A pledge was also administered as part of the programme to maintain the surroundings clean, lead a healthy diet, and take care of the environment.
Today’s programme brought together students, teachers, and community members to spread awareness on the importance of cleanliness, nutrition, and environmental conservation. Reflecting on the day’s activities, one of the students shared, “Planting a tree today made me feel like I am giving something back to nature. I will remember this whenever I see it grow.”
Another girl student added, “I learned how important iron-rich food is for us. I will try to eat more vegetables and fruits at home so that I stay healthy and active in school.”