Media Release
Bantwal, Aug 6: The department of obstetrics and gynecological nursing, Father Muller Nursing College, Thumbay, and Father Muller Hospital, Thumbay, in collaboration with Pudu Primary Health Centre, Bantwal and Integrated Child Development Services, Bantwal, organized a World Breastfeeding Week 2026 awareness programme on August 5 at Pudu Primary Health Centre, Bantwal. The programme was conducted in observance of this year's World Breastfeeding Week theme, 'Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works'.
The programme commenced with a prayer song invoking God's blessings, followed by the formal unveiling of the World Breastfeeding Week 2026 theme.
The dignitaries present on the occasion included Mumtaz, child development project officer Dr Aditya Rai, medical officer, Pudu Primary Health Centre; Vinaya, president, Stree Shakthi Block Society; Nurabi S, senior primary health care officer; and Silviya Nisha Lobo, lecturer, department of obstetrics and gynecological nursing, Father Muller Nursing College, Thumbay.
Addressing the gathering, Silvyia Nisha Lobo highlighted the significance of this year's theme and emphasized the need to strengthen existing breastfeeding support systems to ensure a healthy and sustainable future for every child. Dr Denzil Ujwal Alvares, Pudu Primary Health Centre delivered an informative session on the importance and health benefits of breastfeeding for both mother and child. Mumtaz, child development project officer, emphasized the importance of exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life, while Nurabi S educated the participants on the importance of breastfeeding, correct positioning, attachment, and effective breastfeeding techniques.
A highlight of the programme was an informative and engaging role play presented by the VI semester BSc nursing students of Father Muller Nursing College, Thumbay. The performance effectively demonstrated the importance of breastfeeding, proper breastfeeding techniques, positioning, and the benefits of breastfeeding for both the mother and the child.
The programme was compered by Preethi Fernandes, a VI semester BSc nursing student. Nearly 60 participants, including ASHA workers from Pudu Primary Health Centre, staff of integrated child development services, Bantwal, antenatal mothers, and their family members, attended the programme.
The awareness programme successfully enhanced public understanding of the importance of breastfeeding and reinforced the need to promote, protect, and support optimal breastfeeding practices, thereby contributing to improved maternal and child health and a healthier future for society.