To commemorate World Health Day 2026, the Department of Community Health Nursing, Kalinga Institute of Nursing Sciences (KINS), under the guidance of Dr. Niyati Das, Professor and Principal, KINS, KIIT-DU organized a two-days programme on 6th and 7th April 2026, in alignment with the theme “Together for Health. Stand with Science.” The programme emphasized the importance of scientific evidence, innovation, and collaborative efforts in strengthening global and community health systems.

The programme commenced on 6th April 2026 with college competition among the students of KINS where students creatively depicted various public health issues, preventive strategies, and the role of science in healthcare. Students of GNM 3rd year secured 1st prize, B.Sc. Nursing 2nd semester secured 2nd prize, and GNM 1st year secured 3rd prize. This was followed by a symposium presented by M.Sc. Nursing 1st year students of the Department of Community Health Nursing, where participants delivered insightful presentations on various topics related to community health and scientific advancements in healthcare. The session highlighted practical approaches in healthcare, disease prevention methods, and the role of nurses in promoting community well-being. The symposium served as an academic platform for knowledge sharing and critical discussion among students and faculty.

The day concluded with a guest lecture delivered by Dr. E. Venkata Rao, Professor, Community Medicine, IMS & SUM Hospital, Bhubaneswar, who served as the resource person for the programme. The speaker presented an insightful session focusing on the role of scientific research, innovation, and modern healthcare approaches in improving health outcomes. The lecture was highly informative and inspired students to adopt scientific approaches in their professional practice.

The second day of the programme, held at KIMS Auditorium, commenced with the ceremonial lamp lighting. The welcome address was delivered by Dr. Niyati Das, Professor and Principal, KINS, KIIT-DU. The theme was unfolded by Dr. Anasuya Pattanayak, HOD, Department of Community Health Nursing, KINS, KIIT-DU, who elaborated on the global relevance of the theme and emphasized the critical role of healthcare professionals in promoting scientific integrity in healthcare.

Followed by this a mime show competition was organized among the students of KINS, wherein participants effectively conveyed significant public health messages, including hygiene, disease prevention, and lifestyle modifications, through expressive performances. The competition was won by the GNM 3rd year students. A short film was presented by M.Sc. Nursing 1st year students of the Department of Community Health Nursing, highlighting real-life health challenges and emphasizing the importance of awareness, early intervention, and scientific approaches in improving community health. The presentation served as an educational and thought-provoking segment of the programme.

Thereafter, a lively and interactive state level quiz competition was held to test participants’ knowledge about global health issues, diseases, medical breakthroughs, and healthcare systems where students from 15 nursing colleges across Odisha participated enthusiastically, making the event highly competitive and intellectually stimulating. All the teams enthusiastically competed against each other, showcasing their understanding of health-related facts and statistics. The quiz not only served as an educational tool but also fostered a spirit of healthy competition among participants. The quiz covered diverse areas, including public health, national health programmes, policy, and current global health issues. Among the participating institutions, Hi-Tech College of Nursing secured 1st position, Blue Wheel College of Nursing secured 2nd position, and Vivekananda College of Nursing secured 3rd position.

The programme also witnessed the presence of distinguished judges and experts, whose valuable evaluation, guidance, and encouragement contributed significantly to the success of the event. All M.Sc. Nursing, B.Sc. Nursing 6th semester, GNM 3rd year, and 1st year students attended the program. Mrs. Debashree Kar, Asst. Professor, KINS proposed a vote of thanks. It was a very unique way of observing World Health Day among the Nursing Community as well as for the society. Winners of all competitions were felicitated with certificates, medals, and trophies in recognition of their outstanding performances.

Overall, the celebration of World Health Day 2026 at KINS served as an enriching platform for promoting awareness, scientific thinking, and collaborative action towards achieving better health outcomes. The programme successfully reflected the essence of the theme by encouraging students and professionals to stand together for health and support science-driven healthcare practices.