On 19 August 2026, the Department of Community Health Nursing, Manipal College of Nursing (MCON), in collaboration with the National Service Scheme (NSS) Unit of MCON, conducted a school health program at Government Higher Primary School, Athradi. The program was organized with the active participation of seventh-semester BSc Nursing students and focused on three key areas of child health: healthy food choices, prevention of accidents, and personal hygiene.

Under the direction of Dr. Vinish V, Assistant Professor-Snr Scale, Department of Community Health Nursing, and under the leadership of Ms. Rebecca, student leader, the seventh-semester BSc Nursing students carried out the program for the students and faculty of Government Higher Primary School, Athradi.

Ms. Kripa delivered the welcome address. Mrs. Saraswathy, Principal, Government Higher Primary School, Athradi, presided over the program and appreciated the team for selecting relevant health themes. She also highlighted the importance of maintaining good hygiene as part of everyday life.

Mr. Melcon and team presented an educational skit highlighting accident prevention and the importance of consuming healthy food. The skit used an engaging approach to reinforce practical health messages.

Ms. Athira and her group presented a brief dance demonstrating the steps of proper hand hygiene. Following the demonstration, an interactive handwashing competition was conducted to help the children practice the correct steps and principles of hand hygiene. Winners were awarded prizes, while the other participants received tokens of appreciation for their enthusiastic participation. Refreshments were arranged for the participants. The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Kripa.

This program successfully educated 69 schoolchildren and five schoolteachers on the focus area. Through demonstrations, skits, dance, and hands-on participation, the program provided an engaging learning experience and reinforced the importance of healthy eating, accident prevention, and personal hygiene. The activities were intended to encourage children to develop responsible, positive health habits and incorporate them into their daily lives.

The program contributed to the following Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being: Promoting healthy food choices, personal hygiene, and accident prevention.

• SDG 4 – Quality Education: Providing age-appropriate, participatory health education to school children.

• SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation: Reinforcing proper hand hygiene and healthy sanitation practices.

The school health program was a meaningful community engagement initiative that combined health education with interactive learning. The participation of school children, teachers, and BSc Nursing students created an effective platform for promoting healthy and safe practices. Such programs can help strengthen health awareness among school children and encourage the early adoption of positive health behaviours.