WORLD TUBERCULOSIS DAY – SREE ABIRAMI COLLEGE OF NURSING, COIMBATORE – 21 ,2025
On March 21, 2025, the Department of Community Health Nursing at Sree Abirami College of Nursing, Coimbatore, organized an impactful commemoration of World Tuberculosis Day from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the SACON auditorium. This event, aligned with the global theme “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver,” aimed to raise awareness about tuberculosis (TB), particularly India’s significant burden as the country with the highest incidence of both TB and multidrug-resistant (MDR) TB. With an estimated 79,000 MDR-TB cases and over a million “missing” cases annually—often undiagnosed or inadequately treated—the event underscored the urgent need for collective action to combat this public health challenge.
The program commenced at 11:15 a.m. with a soulful prayer song, setting a reflective tone for the gathering. Prof. Gandhimathi, Vice Principal and Head of the Department of Community Health Nursing, delivered a warm welcome speech, emphasizing the critical role of healthcare education in addressing TB. Dr. Renuka, Principal of Sree Abirami College of Nursing, greeted the chief guest with a bouquet and delivered a compelling special address. She highlighted the significance of World TB Day in fostering awareness and mobilizing communities to support the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP).
The centerpiece of the event was an insightful presentation by the chief guest, Dr. Reenu Reghu, Medical Consultant for the World Health Organization’s Technical Support Network at the DDHS office, Coimbatore. Dr. Reghu provided a comprehensive overview of the current state of TB in India and globally, shedding light on the alarming statistics of 79,000 MDR-TB cases and the challenges posed by undiagnosed cases. She meticulously covered NTEP updates, detailing the program’s organizational structure, national strategic plan, and innovative approaches to TB management. Her talk explored cutting-edge diagnostic techniques, newer prevention therapies, advanced treatment regimens, and recent initiatives aimed at accelerating TB elimination. Dr. Reghu’s engaging delivery captivated the audience, sparking discussions on the importance of early detection and robust healthcare interventions.
Approximately 300 nursing students attended the session, gaining valuable knowledge about TB prevention, treatment, and the role of healthcare professionals in achieving a TB-free India. The interactive nature of the talk allowed students to ask questions, deepening their understanding of TB’s evolving landscape and the global commitment to ending it. The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Mrs. Rajeswari V., Associate Professor in the Department of Community Health Nursing, who expressed gratitude to the chief guest, organizers, and participants. The program ended on a patriotic note with the singing of the national anthem, reinforcing the collective resolve to contribute to public health.
The World Tuberculosis Day 2025 event at Sree Abirami College of Nursing was a resounding success, blending education, inspiration, and advocacy. By fostering awareness and equipping students with critical insights, the event reinforced the institution’s commitment to community health and the global mission to end TB. The Department of Community Health Nursing’s efforts exemplified the power of education in driving meaningful change, leaving attendees motivated to champion TB elimination in their future careers.
