Salaam Bombay Foundation’s Inaugural Community Health Mela proved to be a huge platform for adolescents to educate on the importance of healthy lifestyles in their communities.
Mumbai, October 4, 2024: In today’s world, health is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Mumbai’s hardworking residents, especially those from resource-challenged backgrounds, often overlook their physical and mental well-being in their pursuit of a better life. The challenge now is striking a balance: How can we nourish our bodies and minds while managing the demands of daily life from easily available items? To address this question Salaam Bombay Foundation has created a stage for the future change makers under the name Community Health Mela which was recently held at IDUBS School, Bhandup West.
Prominent government officials, Smt. Manisha Pawar(Deputy Director, Regional Academic Authority – Education Department of Maharashtra)and Shri. Santosh Kanthe(Deputy Education Inspector), flagged off the Community Health Mela. Salaam Bombay Foundation’s student Health Monitors walked them through various stalls as they explained concepts of driving social impact within their respective communities. Salaam Bombay Foundation’s Health Monitors had dedicated stalls where they explained to the attendees the benefits of the initiative that were highlighted. The officials were impressed by the concepts made by the students such as the Magic jar which helps to reduce anxiety. Through this initiative, the students associated with the Foundation had a wider stage to showcase their initiatives to a massive audience of 1,900+ people who attended the event across two days of its running. The Community Health Mela welcomed students from 15 schools and 1 junior college as visitors. Additionally, 24 schools participated actively, with 60 health monitors sharing their knowledge and initiatives with attendees.
The Health Monitors at the Microgreen-zone explained how anyone can cultivate microgreens in their homes and the benefits of having them in each meal. At the same time, the students in the Calm Corner showed various methods of handling stress. Apart from this, Salaam Bombay Foundation’s proactive Health Monitors educated the audience on the ill effects of tobacco consumption and promoted awareness about the benefits of eating healthy foods and measures to develop a better self-image. The Health Monitors showcased their expertise at the event, raising insightful questions on unhealthy lifestyle habits. Their inquiries covered tobacco-free policies in schools and public spaces, COTPA regulations, nutrition, and mental well-being. This demonstrated the impact of Salaam Bombay Foundation’s community outreach programmes in empowering young change makers. Various schools across Mumbai participated in the Community Health Mela and delivered NukkadNataks, Songs on topics such as eradicating the use of tobacco from society.
Tshering D. Bhutia, Chief Innovation Officer & Senior VP – Preventive Health, Salaam Bombay Foundation said“We are very grateful to the government schools for their continued collaboration and allowing us to implement our experiential learning methodology in alignment with the New Education Policy. Our focus on holistic development through our ‘Preventive Health Education Programme’ of each child has yielded incredible results, as evident through this platform today. These students have showcased remarkable talent and possess the potential to drive meaningful change within their communities. Platforms like these not only foster the growth of participating students but also inspire other young minds to follow in their footsteps.”
The Community Health Mela was a delightful showcase of how students’ enthusiasm for health has blossomed at home. The 4 food stalls were a testament to the students’ eagerness to share what they’ve learned through our programmes with their families. They encouraged their parents to whip up nutritious lip-smacking twists to their favourite snacks. It was heart-warming to watch knowledge passed from the classroom to kitchen to the community. Adding to the friendly atmosphere, the Health Camp teamed up with caring professionals from Navkaar Hospital, Bhalanetra Eye Hospital and several seasoned dentists who offered free health check-ups.
Manisha Pawar (Deputy Director, Regional Academic Authority) said,“Salaam Bombay Foundation’s programmes exemplify the core principles of the New Education Policy 2020. Their School Kitchen Garden initiative is a prime example of experiential learning, seamlessly blending theory with practice. Such innovative approaches are crucial in nurturing well-rounded, health-conscious citizens of tomorrow.”
SantoshKanthe (Deputy Education Officer)said, “The Government of Maharashtra has implemented several programmes to curb tobacco usage among students, with ‘Tobacco-Free Schools’ being a key initiative. These efforts underscore our commitment to creating healthier learning environments. By collaborating with organizations like Salaam Bombay Foundation, we’re strengthening our resolve to nurture a tobacco-free generation.”
Salaam Bombay Foundation is on a quest to provide such platforms for budding change makers who genuinely want to contribute to their communities and bring positive change in their mindset.
