The School of Pharmacy, in collaboration with the Health Department of the Government of Maharashtra and Apulki Sanstha, Pune, celebrated World Immunization Day through a series of impactful events aimed at raising awareness about immunization. These activities, held in November 2024, effectively combined education, creativity, and community service. The event was convened by Dr. S. Sunitha and coordinated by Prof. Kirti Deshpande.
Quiz Competition and Video-Making Competition held on 15th November 2024
The celebration began on the 15th of November with two engaging competitions organized at the School of Pharmacy. These activities were designed to encourage students to explore the subject of immunization and creatively express their understanding.
Quiz Competition: The quiz competition tested and expanded participants' knowledge of immunization, vaccine development, and public health policies. The event served as both an educational opportunity and a platform for fostering teamwork and healthy competition among students.
Video-Making Competition: The video-making competition allowed students to creatively convey the importance of immunization. Participants submitted impactful videos focusing on themes such as vaccine awareness, myths versus facts, and the role of immunization in disease eradication. Submissions were evaluated based on content accuracy, creativity, and the strength of their message. The best videos were showcased on the institution’s social media platforms, extending their reach to a wider audience.
Vaccination Drive on 27th November 2024
A large-scale vaccination drive was organized on the 27th of November in collaboration with Health Department of the Government of Maharashtra, ‘Apulki Sanstha Pune’ and Sun Medico at Sun City Road, Pune from 10:30 am onwards. This initiative aimed to increase vaccination coverage and educate the community about the benefits of immunization.
Role of Student Volunteers: Students of second year D.Pharmacy actively participated as volunteers during the vaccination drive. They assisted healthcare professionals, managed logistics, and educated the public about immunization's significance. This experience provided students with valuable practical exposure to public health initiatives and an opportunity to serve their community. Many students expressed pride and fulfillment in contributing to such a noble cause, emphasizing the drive’s role in bridging theoretical knowledge with real-world applications.
Conclusion: The events effectively combined education, creativity, and community service to emphasize the vital role of immunization in public health. These initiatives highlighted the crucial role of educational institutions and community organizations in promoting public health and fostering social responsibility among students. This collaborative celebration not only honored the importance of World Immunization Day but also demonstrated the power of collective efforts in driving positive change.
