Inspired by Chancellor Amma’s vision, a partnership between Amrita University and Mizoram University, addresses key challenges, provides sustainable solutions and create a thriving ecosystem in the state of Mizoram, paving the way for a brighter future. The DST STI Hub, is a project funded by the Department of Science & Technology (GoI), hosted a 2-day training and awareness event for Anganwadi workers (AWWs) of Mizoram’s Aizawl (Urban) district. This event, held at the Synod Conference Hall in Aizawl on February 6-7, 2024, saw the participation of 178 AWWs.
The event was officially inaugurated by the distinguished Chief Guest Prof. Lalnilawma, Hon’ble Minister of State for Rural Development, Horticulture, and P.H.E. Department, and Guest of Honour Pi Zoramthangi Chhangte, Director of Women & Child Development, Social Welfare and Tribal Affairs Department.
On day 1, the AWWs, who are crucial figures in delivering essential services to children and mothers, were equipped with valuable insights into nutrition fundamentals. This included an understanding of prevalent issues such as malnutrition and anemia and the importance of incorporating iron-rich foods into daily diets. Additionally, the session emphasized the value of adding locally available foods to maximize nutritional benefits and promote community health.
At the end of the session, 12 AWWs were identified as potential master trainers, who will be trained further and more in-depth on nutritive interventions by the STI Hub team, so that these trainings can be percolated down to the local level and reach all anganwadis in due course of time.
On day 2, the Anganwadi workers were trained on Digital Literacy – working with Gmail and Google Sheets to enhance their efficiency, and working with Govt. apps like Diksha, Poshan Tracker and DigiLocker to serve their communities better. They were also taught about internet safety – including phishing, identity theft, recognizing fake news, sharing appropriately on social media etc. As technology continues to play an increasingly integral role in our daily lives, everyone must have the knowledge and skills to navigate the digital landscape safely and effectively.
The second half of Day 2 was dedicated to Ayurveda. The Ayurveda Intervention Team hosted an impactful Dinacharya (our daily routine) education session to bolster Anganwadi workers. The session focused on how important it is to perform simple daily things like Nasya (nasal instillation) and Abhyanga (medicated oil massage) in order to maintain good health and long life, both of which aid in promoting community health.
Throughout the session, Anganwadi workers actively engaged, eagerly taking notes, capturing images of presentation slides, and participating in discussions, demonstrating a high level of interest and receptiveness to the informative and engaging sessions. Many of them expressed enthusiasm and appreciation for the comprehensive and interactive manner of the trainings. The event turned out to be a one-of-a-kind training for AWWs of Aizawl.
The event concluded with a free basic health check-up for the Anganwadi workers. Overall, this training event equipped the workers with valuable skills, knowledge, and resources to enhance their work and improve the well-being of the individuals they serve.
