April 2026

On the World Leprosy Observation Day, the Department of Medical Surgical Nursing organised a very insightful and successful guest lecture on the World Leprosy Observation Day, at Sri Abirami College of Nursing. The objective of the program was to raise awareness and raise the knowledge levels of students about leprosy, the causes, treatment and the need to remove the stigma that comes with the disease. A Meaningful Beginning At 11:00 AM, the traditional Tamil Thaai Vazhthu, led by the III Semester students, was conducted and this established a good and respectful atmosphere. This was later succeeded by the warm welcome speech by Dr. K. Gomathi, who emphasized on awareness programs in the making of responsible healthcare professionals. To make the event even more special, Prof. Gandhimathi, the Vice Principal of Sree Abiram College of Nursing gave a special address and emphasized on the role of nurses in generating awareness and assisting patients with their knowledge and compassion. Expert Insights from Field Professionals Mr. Rajkumar, Health Educator at DDMS Leprosy, Coimbatore headed the first session. He was able to render the topic simple but effective with his vast experience. His practical and real-life examples and insights made the session interesting and comprehensible. His interactive session was able to make the audience participate and show interest because it was interactive. Mr. Ravichandran, Non-Medical Supervisor at DDMS Leprosy, Coimbatore conducted the second session. He gave a detailed account of leprosy including: Causes and transmission * Epidemiology * Clinical features * Diagnosis and treatment * Complications and prevention * Elimination, control and eradication strategies. He likewise presented the latest statistics on leprosy at the global, national (India), and state (Tamil Nadu) levels, contributing to the awareness of the students that they can see the current situation and the necessity of the ongoing awareness campaigns. Taking a Step Towards Awareness The SPARSH Leprosy Awareness Pledge which was administered to faculty members, students and resource persons in the Nursing Auditorium was also a major highlight of the program. This commitment was embodied in this promise to create awareness and eradicate discrimination that was related to leprosy. Impact on Students The two hour session was very informative and helpful. It increased the academic knowledge of the students as well as their interest in patient care and community health. The knowledge acquired in the lecture will assist them in their academic life and future career. Gratitude and Conclusion The Department of Medical-Surgical Nursing genuinely thanked the guest speakers on their valuable time and expertise; thus, making the program meaningful and memorable. The occasion came to an end with a grateful Vote of thanks by the Assistant Professor, Mrs. Rama Vishnu and the National Anthem was sung by the students of the III Semester B.Sc. Nursing students. Final Thoughts Such awareness programs are crucial towards educating the future healthcare professionals and enhancing a healthier society. Sree Abirami College of Nursing is still actively engaged in planning such activities which means that the students are informed, caring and prepared to be a service to the society.