The National Service Scheme (NSS) unit of three Schools – Fashion Technology, Film and Media Sciences, and Mass Communication – in association with KIIT NSS Bureau observed World No-Tobacco Day on 31st May 2022. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Md. Imran Ali, a noted de-addiction activist and anti-tobacco campaigner, highlighted the dangers of tobacco and the emerging trends that target the youth. He urged to ensure tobacco-free childhood everywhere. Dr. Ali has delivered powerful anti-tobacco messages on multiple national stages, written a book, and produced documentaries on the subject.
In his presentation, Dr. Saswat Subhankar, Pulmonologist, KIMS gave a brief background on the emergence of tobacco which dates back to the 1300s. WHO has been taking strong steps against the use of tobacco since 1988, after it became evident that the use of tobacco is harmful to the human body, he said. Focusing on the message of a tobacco-free campus, Dr. Kajal Parashar, Programme Coordinator, KIIT NSS Bureau emphasized the benefits of effective participation in NSS activities for the students.
Dr. Bidu Bhusan Dash, Program Officer, NSS Unit; Ms. Gipsita Nayak, Deputy Director, School of Fashion Technology; Mr. Ajay Mishra, Course Coordinator, School of Film and Media Sciences; Dr. Prachi Vijayeeta, Senior Programme Officer, KIIT NSS Bureau and Mr. Bauri Raula, Course Coordinator, School of Fashion Technology were also present on the occasion. The programme was coordinated by Ms. Madhusmita Panda of the Community Engagement Cell.