JAMMU: Jammu Sanskriti School, in collaboration with the American Oncology Institute (AOI), successfully organised a two-day programme to mark World Cancer Day, blending youth awareness, community engagement and preventive healthcare.
The event witnessed active participation from students, parents and members of the local community, highlighting the importance of awareness, early detection and collective responsibility in the fight against cancer.
The first day focused on sensitising young minds through creative and intellectual activities. An inter-school drawing and debate competition on cancer awareness themes saw enthusiastic participation from students representing around ten schools across the region. The competitions provided a platform for students to express their understanding of cancer prevention, early diagnosis and the need for empathy and support for those affected.
The second day transformed the school campus into a centre of community wellness with the organisation of a multi-speciality health check-up camp. The day began with an inaugural ceremony featuring inspirational song and dance performances by students, reflecting hope, resilience and solidarity.
The camp was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Rahul Yadav, IAS, who emphasised the role of awareness in combating cancer.
“The greatest weapon against cancer is not just advanced medicine, but an educated mind and a vigilant community,” he said.
Sanjay Turki, former Deputy Director Health Services, Jammu, attended as the Guest of Honour. He highlighted the role of schools in spreading awareness, stating that prevention and early detection, powered by awareness, are battles that can be won every day.
Addressing the gathering, Principal-cum-Vice Chairperson Rohini Aima reiterated the school’s commitment to holistic education and community well-being.
“Education extends beyond academics. It is our duty to foster awareness and provide access to preventive healthcare, empowering our students and community to lead healthier lives,” she said.
A team of nearly twelve doctors from various specialities conducted the camp, including Dr Parveen Yograj (Senior Consultant Medicine), Dr Surbhi Kudyar (Consultant AOI), Dr Nadeem Showket (Senior Consultant AOI), Dr Jagmohan Singh (Consultant AOI), Dr Amit Kumar Sharma (Consultant, Avighna Heart Institute), Dr Gourav Vaid (Physiotherapist), Dr Chandai Arora (Consultant Ophthalmology, ASCOMS), Dr Hannan Madni (Senior Resident, OBS & Gynae, ASCOMS) and Dr Pulkit Vaid (Dental).
During consultations, doctors addressed common health myths, stressed the importance of early detection, preventive care and mental resilience, and shared insights into recent advances in targeted therapies and immunotherapy. They underlined that community support plays a crucial role alongside medical treatment in a patient’s recovery journey.
Special attention was given to the junior primary wing, where dental and eye check-ups were conducted. The camp witnessed a substantial turnout, with parents and community members availing expert consultations and health screenings.
The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of the medical team, the partnering institute, school staff and participants.
The initiative reflected a strong community partnership in line with World Cancer Day’s mission of uniting voices and taking action against one of the world’s most pressing health challenges.
A special note of gratitude was extended to Dr Neeraj Bishnoi, Regional Chief Operating Officer, AOI–North; Syed Ahmed Rayhan Hussain, Facility Director, AOI; and Ashutosh Gupta, Senior Manager Marketing, AOI Jammu, and their team for their guidance and support in the successful conduct of the programme.
