“Embracing ‘My Health My Right’: World Health Day Short Film Competition at Sree Abirami College of Nursing”
On April 7th, 2024, Sree Abirami College of Nursing joined the global community in celebrating World Health Day, an annual event orchestrated by the World Health Organization (WHO) to raise awareness about critical health issues affecting people worldwide. The WHO’s constitution poignantly states, “Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” This holistic definition underscores the essence of health as a fundamental human right—a concept that formed the cornerstone of this year’s theme: **”My Health My Right.”**
To honor this theme and promote a deeper understanding among students, Sree Abirami College of Nursing organized an inter-college short film competition on April 17th, 2024. The competition aimed to provide a creative platform for students to express their perspectives on health rights, challenges, and solutions through the powerful medium of film. Participants included students from various departments across the Abirami Institutions, fostering a spirit of collaboration and interdisciplinary engagement.
The event commenced with a heartfelt prayer song performed by the third-year B.Sc. Nursing students. Their harmonious voices set a reverent and inspiring tone for the day, reminding everyone of the profound impact of unity and compassion in healthcare. Professor Christy, a respected faculty member of the college, delivered the welcome speech. She emphasized the significance of World Health Day and encouraged students to be advocates for health equity and accessibility.
The esteemed panel of judges comprised:
– **Dr. Arvin Babu (Dean)**
– **Dr. Renuka (Principal)**
– **Dr. Jaya Bharathi (Administrative Dean)**
Their presence highlighted the institution’s commitment to nurturing talent and recognizing student efforts in promoting health awareness.
To ensure fairness and build excitement, the order of film presentations was determined by a lot system. Each team drew a lot to decide when their video would be showcased. As the lights dimmed, the audience was immersed in a series of compelling narratives, each uniquely capturing the essence of “My Health My Right.” The films addressed various topics, including mental health stigma, access to healthcare in rural areas, the importance of preventive care, and the impact of lifestyle choices on well-being.
One standout entry depicted the struggles of a community lacking basic healthcare facilities and highlighted the collective responsibility to advocate for change. Another creative piece used animation to illustrate the journey of a young person overcoming mental health challenges, emphasizing the right to psychological well-being.
After all the films were screened, the judges retreated briefly to deliberate. They commended the participants for their creativity, storytelling skills, and the profound messages conveyed. The criteria for judgment included relevance to the theme, originality, impact, and overall presentation.
The anticipation in the room was palpable as the judges returned to announce the winners:
– **First Prize:** Sree Abirami College of Nursing Boys Team
– Their film was lauded for its powerful portrayal of health disparities and a compelling call to action for equitable healthcare access.
– **Second Prize:** Sree Abirami College of Physiotherapy
– Their entry was praised for its innovative approach in highlighting the role of physical therapy in enhancing quality of life and asserting one’s right to health.
The announcement was met with resounding applause and cheers. The winning teams were invited to the stage to receive their awards, presented by the judges. Smiles, handshakes, and photographs captured the joyous moments, immortalizing the students’ hard work and dedication.
In her closing remarks, Professor Christy congratulated all participants for their exceptional contributions. She noted that each film, regardless of winning a prize, played a vital role in spreading awareness and inspiring others to value their health rights. She encouraged students to continue using their talents to advocate for positive change in society.
The event concluded with the singing of the National Anthem, uniting everyone in a shared sense of pride and purpose. As attendees dispersed, conversations lingered on the themes explored in the films, indicating the lasting impact of the messages shared.
The World Health Day celebration at Sree Abirami College of Nursing was more than an event—it was a catalyst for reflection and dialogue on health as a human right. By engaging students creatively, the college reinforced the importance of advocacy, empathy, and proactive involvement in addressing health challenges.
This celebration not only highlighted the talents of the students but also underscored the institution’s dedication to holistic education. It served as a reminder that the pursuit of health for all begins with awareness, understanding, and the collective efforts of individuals committed to making a difference.
As the theme “My Health My Right” continues to resonate, Sree Abirami College of Nursing looks forward to fostering environments where students can learn, express, and contribute meaningfully to the health sector. The success of the short film competition sets a precedent for future initiatives aimed at empowering students and upholding the ethos of health as an inalienable right for every individual.