SHILLONG:
The Office of the State Tuberculosis Officer, Meghalaya, in collaboration with the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (The Union) and Department of Social Work, Women’s College, Shillong, on Monday, organised the first cultural event competition under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP).
The programme aimed at sensitising the youth and college students through key messages on Tuberculosis, it’s prevention, diagnosis and treatment through various competitions.
Dr M Mawrie, State TB Officer delivered the key note address and highlighted the role of youth to bring a change by reaching out to families, friends and communities. He underlined the government’s determination in ensuring the best services for a healthy future of our state.
Dr B Shanpru, District TB Officer, East Khasi Hills district shared a presentation on the ‘Evolution of
National Tuberculosis Elimination Program’ and how it has shaped up in the last few years to eliminate the disease.
Dr Ratnadeep Roy, Principal of Women’s College acknowledged the collaborative approach of the social work department with the state TB Office and pledged support for TB Free Meghalaya.
Students from Social Work Department of Women’s College gave a scintillating dance performance on an action song on the disease which was composed by the KHMIH Creative Society under the guidance of District TB Office, West Khasi Hills district.
While 20 participants took part in Phawar and singing competition, 18 participants participated in wall paintings with TB messages across 18 places in the state. Participants belonged to all age groups, from as young as 10 years old to senior citizens. Over 200 students witnessed the thrilling performances, and a few impromptu performances by people from the audience had the hall rocking.
Samanbha Haley Dkhar; Distant Alive Group and Heibormi Veteran Group bagged prizes in the singing competition, while Thorman G Momin; Elizabeth M Sangma and Winsterfield Khonglam won in the wall painting category.
Greenfield Self Help Group, Mawkynrew; Ki Sur Shynna and Rapsbun Nursing School, Shillong were awarded in Phawar. West Garo Hills district received an award for best wall painting in the district category.
Dr Amica Rynjah, Assistant Program Officer, State TB Office, Meghalaya delivered the vote of thanks and urged the youth and participants to share TB knowledge across the community and help in making Meghalaya TB free.