On the occasion of World Organ Donation Day, an awareness and registration drive on organ donation was organised at Milagres College, Hampankatta, Mangalore, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. The programme was jointly organised by the Milagres College Youth Red Cross Unit and Mangalore University Youth Red Cross Unit, in collaboration with Jeevasarthakathe and the State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (SOTTO), with the support of the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Karnataka.
The main objectives of the programme were to create awareness about the importance and significance of organ donation, dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding organ donation, educate students and young people about the organ donation and registration process, encourage voluntary organ donor registration, and promote the message that organ donation can save and transform lives.
The Chief Guest, Smt. Jyothi K. Ulepadi, District Health Education Officer, Department of Health and Family Welfare, Dakshina Kannada, spoke about the need to eliminate misconceptions surrounding organ donation. She encouraged more people to voluntarily come forward for organ donation and emphasised the importance of creating awareness among students.
A special awareness session on organ donation was delivered by Ms. Shilpa T. Grief counsellor cum transplant coordinator, State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization, SOTTO, Karnataka, Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Karnataka. Speaking on the topic, “Organ Donation – A Gift of Life,” she explained the importance of organ donation, the registration process, and how organ donation can provide a new lease of life to many people.
Presiding over the programme, Rev. Dr. Alwin Serrao, Principal of Milagres College, said that it is essential for the younger generation to understand the importance of organ donation. He added that awareness programmes such as these should reach society through the active involvement of young people.
Dr. Gayathri N., Nodal Officer, Youth Red Cross, Dakshina Kannada District, appreciated the efforts of all the organisers, volunteers, participants, and collaborating organisations for their valuable contribution towards the successful conduct of the programme.
A total of 145 Youth Red Cross volunteers and members, including candidates from different colleges, attended the programme. On this occasion, 22 students registered themselves as organ donors. Breakfast and lunch were provided to all the participants and volunteers.
Mrs. Chethana, Co-Coordinator of IQAC, were also present.
The programme commenced with a prayer song, followed by a welcome dance by Ms. Aishwarya and a welcome address by Ms. Sinchana, Youth Red Cross Secretary. Ms. Princel, a student, compered the programme, while Ms. Sushmitha Shaila Moras, Youth Red Cross Programme Officer of Milagres College, proposed the vote of thanks.
The programme concluded at 12:00 noon with the singing of the National Anthem.