The Faculty of Occupational Therapy organized an awareness program in observance of World Suicide Prevention Day 2024 on 10/09/2024. The theme for this year is’Changing the narrative on suicide ‘ A total of 220 persons attended the program including students , faculty members of Faculties of Occupational Therapy , Constituent colleges of MAHER and officers of MAHER .. The event began with a formal inauguration following which Prof. Deepa Sundareswaran welcomed the Chief guest for the programme Dr. Shyam Sivasamy, Director- IQAC ;the dignitaries Dr. Anitha. R, Deputy Registrar( Admin) and Dr. Sanjana.M.R Assistant Registrar ( Academics); and all the
students , Faculty and officers of MAHER . Dr. Shyam Sivasamy addressed the gathering on suicide prevention to be stigma free and seeking more help. The dignitaries then inaugurated the Signature campaign in hope to spread light and positivity. The recorded message from the President of International Association of Suicide Prevention was played for the audience. Prof. Deepa Sundareswaran dictated a pledge against self and inflicted harm, following which there were several events by the students . Mini movie titled “Mind Maze” was made by BOT students. The English speech was delivered by Ms. Bhoomika, a 3rd year BOT student. The Tamil poem was recited by
Ms. Krithika 3 yr BOT student. Solo dance was performed by Mr. Arun 1st yr BOT and group dance by students of 1st yr BOT. The Faculty of Occupational Therapy conducted a Drawing, e-Poster and Reels competition on 09/09/2024, which was presented at the auditorium. Prof.Deepa Sundareswaran gave an informative talk on “Locking the road to suicide” breaking the myths and identifying red
flags regarding the same. As a symbol of re-igniting the spark within ourselves, candle lighting was done. The competition winners of the were given a token of appreciation at the end of the program. The session concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Malavika, Assistant Professor, FOT and national anthem.The students distributed Yellow and Orange ribbons &book marks as a mark of awareness towards prevention of suicide .
