The Department of Food Science and Processing Management organized an outreach activity titled “Anemia Awareness Program in Samathuvapuram Government School” on 12.06.2024, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Samathuvapuram, Madurai. Twelve first-year and eight second-year FSPM students participated in this outreach program, engaging with government school students.
Anaemia, a condition in which the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood is reduced, is one of the major public issues in developing countries. Anaemia in children is linked with impaired cognitive and motor development and affects future earning capacity. The most common cause of anaemia is iron deficiency. The Indian government has initiated multiple programs for the eradication of anaemia. The prevalence of anaemia has not decreased despite the improvements in the country’s economy. So, the FSPM students created awareness among school-going students in Samathuvapuram Government School. In order to eradicate anaemia, the FSPM students presented posters about the causes and symptoms of anaemia. They suggest taking foods like soybeans, lima beans, kidney beans, lentils, and other beans and pulses that contain iron, fibre, and other essential vitamins and minerals. The students were active listeners and responded.
Outcome of the Program
- The extension program provided students with diverse experiences.
- They were delighted to contribute to raising awareness about anaemia among schoolchildren. This initiative encourages them to participate in more community-oriented activities.