BGS Medical College Celebrates World Breastfeeding Week with Student Competitions and Community Outreach
The Department of Pediatrics at BGS Medical College and Hospital marked the fifth day of World Breastfeeding Week 2026 with a comprehensive educational initiative held at the Pediatric Outpatient Department and Abbigere Primary Health Centre on 05 August 2026. The day’s proceedings focused on the dual objectives of academic engagement for nursing students and community empowerment for frontline healthcare workers. By integrating creative presentations with interactive assessment tools, the event sought to reinforce the critical importance of maternal and infant nutrition within the local healthcare ecosystem.
A central feature of the morning session was a Poster Presentation Competition organized for nursing students from the College of Nursing. Participants presented a series of detailed visual aids that addressed various dimensions of neonatal care, including the physiological benefits of breastfeeding, the necessity of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, and the mastery of correct breastfeeding techniques. The posters also served a vital public health function by debunking common myths and providing evidence based facts regarding maternal nutrition. The competition was evaluated by a distinguished panel of judges including Dr. Sahana Devadas, Dr. Gayathri Devi C, and Dr. Architha R B, who noted the high level of clinical accuracy and aesthetic clarity displayed by the students.
Simultaneously, the outreach program at the Abbigere Primary Health Centre targeted Accredited Social Health Activists, commonly known as ASHA workers. Recognizing these individuals as the primary link between the healthcare system and the community, Dr. Sindhu, Assistant Professor from the Department of Community Medicine, led a specialized awareness session. The discourse emphasized the pivotal role these workers play in advocating for proper breastfeeding practices among new mothers. To ensure the information was effectively synthesized, the session concluded with an interactive quiz program. The top three performers were recognized with awards, fostering a spirit of excellence and dedication to community health.
The event was graced by several prominent academic and clinical leaders, including Dr. Ramesh M, Professor and Head of the Department of Pediatrics, alongside faculty members from the College of Nursing such as Professor Yashashwini, Associate Professor Kavitha, and Mrs. Lalitha. The collaborative effort between the departments of Pediatrics and Community Medicine underscored the universitys commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to good health and well being. By equipping both students and community workers with specialized knowledge, the institution continues to play a transformative role in improving maternal and child health outcomes across the region.
