We commemorate International Women’s Day for celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. The theme for 2017 International Women's Day is ‘Be Bold for Change’ and take groundbreaking action that truly drives the greatest change for women (WHO, 2017).
The Chief Guest of the programme was Mrs. Sangeetha, Anganwadi Supervisor, Dr. Shashidhara YN, HoD, Dept. of Community Health Nursing presided over the function. Mrs. Sumangala, Health worker Female, Primary Health Centre, Hirebettu and Mrs. Ansuya, Assistant Professor, Dept of Community Health Nursing, MCON Manipal were the Guest for the programme.  

The programme commenced with a prayer song by Ms. Teena and group, 2nd year PBBSc Nursing students followed by a welcome speech by Ms. Ramitha, 2nd year PBBSc Nursing student. The programme was inaugurated by lighting the lamp by all the guests. Dr. Shashidhara YN in his presidential address, explained the importance of Women’s Day and theme of the year. Mrs Sangeetha, Anganwadi Supervisor explained the need for women to be bold for change. Mrs. Ansuya, Asst. Professor, Dept of Community Health Nursing, MCON, Manipal took a session on ‘Nutrition and Health’ followed by Role play by 2nd year PBBSc Nursing students on women’s health issues.
Vote of thanks was given by Ms.Seema, 2nd Year PBBSc Nursing student.  

After the formal programme, screening programme was arranged to assess the BMI, blood pressure, blood sugar monitoring and Pap smear screening. Pap smear screening was coordinated by Dr. Ranjitha Shetty, Associate Professor, Dept of Community Medicine, KMC, MU, Manipal and her team. Mrs. Singari, Staff Nurse from the team explained on Pap smear screening and its importance. Breast self-examination was demonstrated by 2nd year PBBSc Nursing students by using breast model and Video.  

A total of 50 self-help group members and also other members of the community from Madaga, Athrady benefitted from this programme. A total of 22 Pap-smear test was performed. Among the women who were screened 51.6% were having normal BMI, 32.3% overweight, 6.45% were obese and 9.7% underweight. Two women had high blood pressure who were on treatment; three were having blood sugar more than 180mg/dl, among them two were on treatment; one client was referred to PHC.
The programme was organized by Faculty and 2nd year PBBSc Nursing students of Manipal College of Nursing Manipal and was coordinated by Mrs. Manjula, Asst. Professor, Dept of Community Health Nursing, MCON Manipal.
Feedback was taken from the people gathered. Refreshment was provided to all the participants.