Pics: Nithin Pereira/ Megharaj
Media Release
Udupi, Oct 12: The Department of Student Affairs, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) Manipal, an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, in association with KMC Sports Committee, FIT VIB KMC MAHE Manipal, and Student Support Team MAHE Manipal, successfully organized the Mental Health Awareness Run 2025 on October 12 at the EDU Building, MAHE Campus. The 5K run, held as the culminating event of MAHE's Mental Health Awareness Week (October 5 to 11), brought together over 1,000 participants including students, staff, their families, and students from nearby schools and colleges in a powerful demonstration of collective commitment to mental well-being.
The event was graced by distinguished dignitaries including Swaroopa T K IAS, deputy commissioner of Udupi District as chief guest, and Hariram Shankar, IPS, superintendent of police as guest of honor. The occasion also witnessed the presence of Dr Narayana Sabhahit, pro vice-chancellor (Technology & Science), Dr Sharath Rao, pro vice-chancellor (Health Sciences), Dr P Giridhar Kini, registrar, Dr Geetha Maiya, director, Department of Student Affairs, and representatives from the event's sponsors—Federal Bank (Powered By), KNND Bangalore, Karnataka Bank, Canara Bank, and Bank of Baroda.
This year's theme, ‘Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,’ underscored the critical importance of building personal mental resilience while extending compassion and support to others—a message particularly relevant in today's complex and demanding environment.
Speaking on the occasion, pro-chancellor Dr H S Ballal emphasized the university's holistic vision: ‘Mental health is not separate from academic excellence—it is fundamental to it. Through initiatives like this run, MAHE reaffirms that nurturing resilient, compassionate individuals is at the heart of our educational mission.’
Dr Geetha Maiya, director, Department of Student Affairs, who spearheaded the initiative, stated: "This run is more than an event; it is a statement that mental well-being matters, that we stand together, and that seeking support is a sign of strength. We are building a culture where every individual feels empowered to care for themselves and others."
The event featured multiple race categories with attractive prizes across three segments—MAHE students, MAHE staff, and MAHE staff dependents/Non-MAHE participants—with winners in male and female categories receiving cash prizes of Rs 5,000 (first place), Rs 3,000 (second place), and Rs 2,000 (third place). All finishers received medals, while registered participants were provided with event t-shirts and refreshments.
In a special outreach initiative, students from nearby high schools participated in a ‘Free Run’ category, receiving medals and refreshments as recognition of their enthusiasm and support for mental health awareness. The event also featured cultural performances by MAHE students, adding vibrancy and creativity to the day's proceedings.
The Mental Health Awareness Run 2025 represents a flagship initiative in MAHE's sustained commitment to integrating mental wellness into education and community life. Through strategic partnerships with leading financial institutions and active collaboration with local authorities, the event successfully amplified the message of mental health literacy across the Udupi region and beyond.
The occasion served as both a celebration of collective action and a reaffirmation of MAHE's dedication to nurturing well-rounded individuals equipped with the emotional resilience and social responsibility needed to thrive in an interconnected world. As the university continues to pioneer initiatives that bridge academic rigor with holistic well-being, events like the Mental Health Awareness Run stand as powerful testimonies to MAHE's vision of education that transforms lives and strengthens communities.