Sustainable Nitte

Reduced Inequalities

PREAMBLE                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

In alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Nitte (Deemed to be University) reaffirms its commitment to fostering inclusive and equitable social progress through education, research, and community engagement. Among these global goals, Sustainable Development Goal 10 – Reduced Inequalities—holds a pivotal place in the University’s mission to build a just and inclusive society where no one is left behind.

Throughout the year 2024, the University undertook a series of strategic initiatives aimed at reducing inequalities within and among communities. These initiatives were designed to address disparities in health, education, gender, socio-economic status, and access to essential services, particularly among marginalized and underrepresented populations. With a multi-disciplinary approach, the University integrated academic knowledge with social responsibility to ensure sustainable impact at both local and regional levels.

This report outlines the various activities, collaborations, and outcomes that contributed to the realization of SDG 10. It serves not only as a record of achievements but also as a testament to Nitte (Deemed to be University)'s enduring dedication to inclusive development and its role as a catalyst for social equity in India.

Nitte (Deemed to be University) has undertaken several proactive initiatives aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities) to promote inclusion, equity, and equal opportunities. The university ensures inclusive admission policies that support students from marginalized, rural, and underrepresented communities by offering reservations, scholarships, and fee waivers for economically disadvantaged groups, and minorities. Special emphasis is placed on supporting differently abled students through barrier-free infrastructure, assistive technologies, and academic counselling. Gender equity is promoted through an active Women’s Development Cell that organises empowerment programs, legal literacy sessions, and gender sensitisation workshops. Nitte also fosters cultural diversity through international student exchange programs and provides support systems for international learners. Community outreach is a core component, with regular health camps and educational initiatives conducted in rural, tribal, and coastal regions to address disparities in healthcare and education. The university maintains fair recruitment practices and has an Equal Opportunity Cell, SC/ST Cell, and Internal Complaints Committee to ensure non-discrimination and grievance redressal mechanisms. Nitte University collaborates with NGOs and academic partners to support research and projects that focus on reducing inequalities in health, education, and socio-economic status.

The State NSS Cell, Dept. of Youth Empowerment & Sports, Government of Karnataka, in collaboration with the Regional Directorate of NSS, Govt. of India, Bangalore and National Service Scheme, Nitte (Deemed to be University), Mangalore organized a National Integration Camp from 12th to 18th February 2024 at Nitte University campus, Deralakatte, Mangalore.

The Nitte Institute of Physiotherapy (NIPT), NITTE (Deemed to be University), Deralakatte, Mangaluru, in collaboration with the Indian Association of Physiotherapy (IAP) Kerala and Pathanamthitta Rehabilitation and Palliative Centre Society (PRPC), organized a free physiotherapy camp at Sabarimala for the second consecutive year in 2024.

The first camp of the year was conducted from January 6 to January 12, and the second camp was held from December 17 to December 20 at Appachimedu in Emergency Medical Centre (EMC) 7.

The NSS Unit of Nitte Usha Institute of Nursing Sciences, in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, Regional Directorate of NSS, Bengaluru conducted a Swachhata campaign on the occasion of Shaheedi Diwas on 5th April 2024, at Paneer campus.

An Innovative Project Exhibition was organized by the Institution Innovation Council (IIC) of Nitte (Deemed to be University) in collaboration with IIC, NMAM Institute of Technology on 12th April 2024 at Sadananda Open Air Auditorium, Nitte. IIC Project Abstract showcased the selected projects that would serve as a testament to the participants' innovative spirit and vision for rural upliftment through technology, highlighting the pivotal role of innovation in addressing rural challenges and motivating the participants to pursue excellence with determination.

The Department of Public Health Dentistry, AB Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences, in association with Sharada Seva Samithi Trust, Bantwal, conducted a free dental treatment camp at Vamadapadavu, Bantwala, on 12.05.2024. Oral health awareness was provided. A total of 51 patients were screened during the camp.

The Department of Public Health Dentistry, ABSMIDS in association with Sri Sharadamba Seva Samaja Sudharana Sangha, Puttur conducted a free dental treatment camp at Sri Sharadamba Seva Samaja Sudharana Sangha, Puttur on 25.08.2024. A total of 89 patients were screened during the camp.

A team of doctors visited Leh and conducted knee replacement surgeries, and faced the challenges of procuring the implants at low cost. They also screened about 300 patients on an OPD basis.

The Department of Public Health Dentistry, ABSMIDS, in association with Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Seva Trust, Chokkady, conducted a free dental treatment camp at Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Kendra, Chokkady on 15th September 2024. Oral health awareness was also provided. A total of 134 patients underwent screening during the camp.

The Department of Public Health Dentistry, ABSMIDS, in association with Shree Ganeshothsava Samithi, Siddhakatte, conducted a free dental treatment camp at Rayee, Bantwal on 8th September 2024. Oral health awareness was provided to the public. A total of 62 participants were screened during the camp.

Nitte Institute of Physiotherapy, in Association with the Ramakrishna Mission organized a Low Back Pain Camp on the occasion of the World Physiotherapy Day on 9th and 10th of September 2024.Approximately 150 patients were treated

NITTE Institute of Physiotherapy (NIPT), NITTE (Deemed to be University), Deralakatte Mangalore associated with NSS a special camp was organised at the Farangipete. More than 100 patients were assessed and treated.

The Department of Public Health Dentistry, AB Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences, conducted a free dental screening camp at Nitte Institute of Hospitality Services, Mangalore on 19.10.2024. A total of 53 patients underwent screening during the camp. Patients were referred to the Dental College as well as the nearby Farangipete Rural Satellite Centre for required treatment


Dental screening camp at Nitte Institute of Hospitality Services, Mangalore

Dental camp at Hindu Junior College, Shirva

The Department of Public Health Dentistry, ABSMIDS in association with the Hindu Junior College, Shirva conducted a free dental treatment camp at Hindu Junior College, Shirva on 8th December 2024. Oral health awareness was provided. A total of 33 patients were screened during the camp. 18 patients underwent oral prophylaxis, 13 patients underwent restoration, 1 patient underwent extraction and 6 patients were referred to Shirva Rural Satellite Centre for further treatment.

Justice K.S Hedge Charitable Hospital conducted a total of 131 General camps, benefiting 12450 patients. A total of 22 camps were conducted outside the districts, and 6413 patients were attended. 32 telemedicine programs were undertaken, and 2227 patients were attended.

Six students from the University College of Copenhagen, Denmark visited NUINS Learning Center, Paneer Campus under the Global Health Program during the month of September 2024 at the NUINS Learning Center, Paneer Campus. During their stay on the campus, they were exposed to various clinical areas, such as the Skill lab, Operation Theatre, pre- and post-operative wards, ICU, Dialysis and Integrative Medicine during the training period. Students received hands-on experience in various areas of patient treatment. They had also visited PHC situated in the rural areas.

Mississippi State University's FAO Reference Centre Supports Capacity Strengthening for Fish Innovation Lab Activity." A capacity-building workshop in collaboration with Nitte University and the ICAR- Indian Council of Agricultural Research brought together instructors and attendees, including a Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine faculty member and Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Fish host country co-principal investigator, to exchange knowledge on antimicrobial resistance and aquaculture biosecurity.

On 21st November 2024, Nitte University celebrated International Students’ Day by welcoming 152 students from 8 nations - Angola, Oman, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Yemen, Nepal, Tibet and Zimbabwe. The event highlighted diversity and unity through cultural performances, interactive games and heartfelt stories shared by students about their experiences in Nitte’s vibrant, inclusive community.

The IQAC Criterion VII and Women's Cell of Nitte Usha Institute of Nursing Sciences organised a guest lecture as part of the Amrit Kaal - Vimarsh - Viksit Bharat 2047 public lecture series, on 6th March 2024 at the University Auditorium, Paneer campus. The theme was Rising Nari Shakti - Women Empowerment in India (Theme 4). A total of 98 students and 3 faculty members attended the program.

Nitte (Deemed to be university ) Gender sensitization Cell conducted an event titled “Gender Equity, Inclusiveness & Sensitization ”on 26-09-2024, the event focused on bringing awareness and acceptance to the diverse group. 180 participants.

Nitte A.B. Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Science, Mangalore, and Nitte Special Needs Children’s Care Centre, in collaboration with Comprehensive Education Karnataka, Mangalore, D.K. District, organised World Special Needs Children’s Day 2024 at Nitte Invasion Hall in Deralekatte on Friday. Karnataka State Legislative Assembly Speaker UT Khader inaugurated the program by lighting a lamp. The program was held on 7th December 2024. On the same occasion, a wheelchair and a bed were distributed to the specially-abled children.

As part of the observation of Learning Disability Awareness Week, a one-day workshop titled "From Awareness to Action: Empowering Educators to Support Students with Learning Disabilities" was conducted on 20th June 2024 by the Department of Psychiatry, KSHEMA, in collaboration with the Nitte Special Child Care Centre, ABSMIDS and Samagra Shikshana Karnataka, Dakshina Kannada, GoK. The primary aim of the workshop was to equip educators teaching Classes 4 to 7 students, with the necessary knowledge & skills to effectively identify and support students with learning disabilities.

A day-long event to spread awareness about disability inclusiveness among youth was held at Nitte Institute of Communication (NICO) on 23rd May 2024. This event, coordinated by first-year students of BA (Hons) Media and Communication, was held in collaboration with the NSS unit of NICO and Sarvamangala Trust to spread awareness about disability inclusiveness among the youth. The event achieved its objectives of raising awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and promoting empathy and understanding among the attendees.

NSPECC camps conducted various camps throughout the year for the children, parents and special educators at Admaya SpecialSchool, Mashtikatte, Ullal, Daya Special School, Belthangady, Chethana Special School, Kodailbail, Mangalore, Hidayah Residential School for Special Children, Kavalakatte, Bantwal, Idham Rehabilitation and Educational Foundation, Moodbidri

Dental Health Awareness through school programs, addressing children with specific needs