Sustainable Nitte
Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
PREAMBLE
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Despite remarkable advancements in technology, science, and the economy, today’s world is still plagued by incidents of abuse, crime, and injustice. This persistent presence of injustice, violence, and unrest is an issue that humanity must collectively address to ensure a sustainable and better future for the coming generations and our planet. To effectively confront and tackle these challenges, local and national governments must design and implement strategies aimed at fostering more peaceful, inclusive societies, supported by robust regulations and collaborations among all governing bodies and social strata. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) represent a global call to action to eradicate poverty, safeguard the planet, and enhance the lives and prospects of people worldwide. Achieving the SDGs requires coordinated action by all stakeholders—governments, businesses, and individuals alike. Higher education institutions are key players that can educate, inspire, and empower individuals to rethink and reshape their approach to a sustainable future. This role can be fulfilled through education, research, operations and governance, and external leadership. Many universities around the world have updated their curricula to include new programs focused on the SDGs and their practical implementation. Nitte DU is a forward-thinking and outstanding university founded on the principles of humanity. Since its establishment, Nitte DU has actively contributed to society by providing support and serving as a beacon of progress amid ignorance and incivility, thus helping to build a more humane society.
Graphical abstract
Proactive steps taken by NU
Republic Day celebrations
Republic Day celebrations were jointly organized by the Nitte Group of Educational Institutions on 26th January 2024 at the BC Alva Sports Complex, Nitte. The event featured a ceremonial parade by the NCC units and campus security personnel, instilling patriotic spirit among the participants and attendees.
Election awareness for the first-time voters 2024’
In association with the Electoral Literacy Club, Nitte DU, an “Election Awareness for First-Time Voters 2024” program was conducted on 2nd and 4th March 2024 to promote voter education ahead of the General Assembly Elections. The initiative featured informative sessions, voter pledge administration, and various competitions, all designed to empower first-time voters with a clear understanding of their rights and democratic responsibilities. The program reinforced the importance of active participation in the electoral process as a cornerstone of a vibrant democracy.
International Day Against Drug Abuse 2024
An orientation program was organized on July 5, 2024, for 1st BDS students at A. B. Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences. The program featured an insightful session by Dr. Kumuda Rao on the importance of community engagement in student life, followed by a guest lecture on “Substance Abuse and Management” delivered by Mrs. Reeti Rastogi, Clinical Psychologist, Yenepoya Medical College. With 38 participants, the program created awareness about the risks of drug abuse, encouraged responsible behavior, and reinforced the institution’s commitment to peace, justice, and student well-being.
National Anti-Ragging Awareness Campaign 2024
Nitte Institute of Architecture observed National Anti-Ragging Awareness Day on August 12, 2024, followed by a week-long campaign that included a poster and reel-making competition on August 17. The event encouraged students to creatively highlight the emotional and psychological impacts of ragging, promoting empathy, respect, and a safe campus environment. By fostering awareness and advocacy against harassment, the programme strengthened student responsibility and institutional commitment to harmony, fairness, and a supportive educational environment.
78th Independence Day Celebration 2024
Nitte Group of Institutions celebrated the 78th Independence Day on August 15, 2024, at Nitte Rukmini Adyanthaya Memorial Polytechnic College, with Prof. Dr. Gururaj Kidiyoor unfurling the National Flag. The event saw participation from NCC cadets, Scout-guides, staff, and students, fostering national pride and unity. Simultaneously, NUCSER hosted a patriotic performance at K S Hegde Auditorium depicting the historic Attingal Revolt, highlighting India’s struggle against colonial oppression. The celebrations reinforced values of unity, resilience, and civic responsibility, strengthening institutional commitment to fostering an informed and engaged citizenry.
Sadbhavana Diwas celebration
The Nitte Institute of Communication (NICO) observed Sadbhavana Diwas on 20th August 2024, commemorating the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. The occasion featured activities aimed at promoting national integration, peace, and communal harmony. The program highlighted the values of unity, goodwill, and mutual understanding, reinforcing the institute’s commitment to nurturing responsible and socially conscious citizens.
Suicide Prevention Day 2024
On September 13, 2024, the Nitte Institute of Architecture, in collaboration with an event management group, organized an orientation program on mental health awareness and suicide prevention at the auditorium. Addressing nearly 100 participants, primarily students, mental health professionals highlighted the importance of early intervention, resilience, and reducing stigma. A short film on mental health challenges further emphasized the role of support networks. The event fostered open dialogue, encouraged help-seeking behavior, and promoted a culture of empathy, inclusivity, and institutional commitment to student well-being.
National Unity Day Celebration
The NGSM Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences celebrated Rashtriya Ekta Diwas on 30th October 2024, commemorating the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Principal Prof. Dr. R. Narayana Charyulu highlighted Patel’s pivotal role in India’s unification and administered the National Unity pledge. The program actively engaged students and staff, promoting national integration, unity, and the institute’s commitment to fostering a cohesive and inclusive society.
Awarness session on suicide prevention
A guest lecture on “Suicide Prevention” was organized on 10th September 2024 at the NIHS campus. The session was delivered by Dr. Anugraha Ann Clements, Social Worker, with the objective of raising awareness about the signs, symptoms, and risk factors of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Participants were guided on recognizing warning signs, seeking support through helplines and mental health professionals, and adopting effective coping strategies. The lecture emphasized early intervention, breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, and encouraging open conversations, thereby equipping students with the knowledge and confidence to provide timely and compassionate support to those at risk.
International Day of Yoga Celebration 2024
Nitte DU, in collaboration with KSHEMA’s Medical Education Unit, celebrated the International Day of Yoga on 21st June 2024 at BC Alva Indoor Stadium. Around 180 participants engaged in yogasanas, pranayama, and meditation sessions. Yoga achievers from Nitte University’s constituent colleges were felicitated in recognition of their dedication. The event promoted physical and mental well-being, fostering a healthy and peaceful community, while reinforcing the institution’s commitment to holistic development and wellness.
World Mental Health Day 2024
The Department of Psychiatry, KSHEMA, observed World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2024, at KS Hegde Hospital’s Glass House with the theme ‘Mental Health in the Workplace.’ Dr. MV Shetty College students performed a street play to raise awareness, and the annual Mental Health Calendar was released by dignitaries. Targeting healthcare professionals and students, the event promoted mental well-being, reduced stigma, and reinforced institutional commitment to creating supportive and inclusive environments.
Spreading Joy and Compassion: Secret Santa 24 Celebration at Snehadeepa Orphanage
The Nitte Institute of Architecture, in collaboration with the Student Council and Rotaract Club, organized the Secret Santa 24 event on 22nd December 2024 at Snehadeepa Girls Orphanage, Mangalore. The program engaged orphaned children through carol singing, games, refreshments, and gift distribution by Santa Claus. This festive celebration fostered kindness, joy, and community spirit, promoting inclusivity and compassion while reinforcing the institution’s commitment to social responsibility and support for vulnerable groups.
Free dental treatment camp
The Department of Public Health Dentistry, AB Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences, in collaboration with Sharada Seva Samithi Trust, Bantwal, organized a free dental treatment camp at Vamadapadavu, Bantwala on 12.05.2024. The programme aimed to provide oral health awareness and basic dental care to underserved rural populations. A total of 51 patients were screened. The initiative promoted equitable healthcare access and community well-being, fostering trust and strengthening institutional outreach in alignment with the values of peace, justice, and inclusivity.
Free physiotherapy camp at Sabarimala
Nitte Institute of Physiotherapy, in collaboration with IAP Kerala and PRPC, organized a free physiotherapy camp at Sabarimala from 6th to 12th January 2024 during the Makara Jyothi period. The camp provided targeted physiotherapy care for Ayyappa devotees experiencing physical ailments while undertaking the barefoot pilgrimage, enhancing their comfort and mobility.
International Nurses Day Celebration
The Student Nurses Association (SNA) Council of NUINS organized the International Nurses Day Celebration on May 11, 2024, at KS Hegde Auditorium with the theme “Our Nurses, Our Future: The Economic Power of Care.” The event featured a skit on Florence Nightingale by first-year BSc Nursing and GNM students and an invocation by Sr. Arogyamma’s group. Ms. Sheryl Fernandes, SNA Advisor, delivered the welcome address. Targeting nursing students and faculty, the event honored nurses’ roles and promoted values of compassion, leadership, and service, fostering strong institutions and responsible future healthcare professionals.
Life Skill Training Program
The Department of Mental Health Nursing, in collaboration with NUINS Alumni Association, conducted a life skill training program on November 23, 2024, for 80 Class 10 students of Anandashram High School, Someshwar. Resource persons Mr. Sukesh Shetty, Ms. Cleeta Anline Pinto, and Ms. Prathima Sherigarthy led sessions on self-awareness, emotional regulation, decision-making, communication, and creative thinking through interactive activities. The program empowered students with essential skills for personal growth and responsible citizenship, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to nurturing confident and resilient future leaders.
