The Department of Child Health Nursing at Manipal College of Nursing (MCON), MAHE, Manipal, in collaboration with Rotary Parkala Zone-IV, RI District 3182, organized an awareness talk on Adolescent Health on September 20, 2024, at the Government Higher Primary School, Kukkehalli, Udupi, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

The program aimed to enhance adolescents' understanding of essential aspects of health and well-being during their transition to adulthood. The initiative highlighted the critical role of good health as a foundation for sustainable development, aligning closely with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3): Good Health and Well-Being. By addressing key issues and promoting preventive measures, the program emphasized the connection between adolescent health and broader development goals.

The session focused on the unique challenges of adolescence, a transformative phase involving significant physical, emotional, and social changes. Recognizing this, the program prioritized educating both boys and girls on vital health topics.

For female students, Ms. Yashwini D. Shettigar, a PhD Scholar in the Department of Child Health Nursing, MCON, conducted a session covering nutrition, menstrual health and hygiene, mental health, reproductive health, and stress management. For male students, Dr. Anjalin D’Souza, Assistant Professor - Selection Grade, led a session focusing on stress management, preventive health, physical activity, and lifestyle modifications

The event witnessed the participation of 120 students from classes 8, 9, and 10 of Government Higher Primary School, Kukkehalli. The sessions incorporated engaging and interactive elements, including discussions and role plays performed by 25 PBBSc Nursing students, and 35 BSc Nursing students actively contributed to the program.

Feedback from participants indicated high satisfaction with the content and delivery of the sessions. Students and faculty members from the school expressed their appreciation, commending the program's organization and relevance to adolescent needs.

The event was graced by the presence of Rtn. Sathyananda Nayak, President of Rotary Parkala, Mrs. Linet Martha Dsouza, Incharge Principal of the high school, and Dr. Sangeetha P, Program Coordinator, Department of Child Health Nursing, MCON, MAHE, Manipal.

The initiative successfully educated adolescents on critical health topics, equipping them with essential skills to manage the challenges of adolescence effectively. It underscored the importance of community partnerships in promoting adolescent health and well-being