A Two-Day National Science Conference at Birla Balika Vidyapeeth, Pilani: Improving Adolescent Health through Technology

On September 28, 2024, Birla Balika Vidyapeeth, Pilani, in collaboration with the Indian Society for the Study of Reproduction and Fertility (ISSRF), organized a two-day national conference on "Technological Advances in Adolescent Health Research." Over 22 renowned doctors and scientists from prestigious institutions across the country presented lectures at this event.

The distinguished guests of the conference were Padma Vibhushan Professor G.P. Talwar (Founder Director of the Talwar Research Institute) and Padma Bhushan Dr. (Mrs.) Manju Sharma (Former Secretary, Department of Biotechnology, Government of India). The event was chaired by Major General S.S. Nair (AVSM), Director of Birla Education Trust.

The school principal and chairperson of the event, Dr. (Mrs.) M. Kasturi, along with the esteemed guests, inaugurated the conference by lighting the ceremonial lamp. In her welcome speech, Dr. M. Kasturi greeted all the guests and highlighted the significance of the conference. She mentioned that this is the fourth national conference organized by the school, following successful conferences in 2016, 2018, and 2022.

Major General S.S. Nair expressed his pleasure over the event and emphasized the conference's objectives and its importance for the holistic development of students. He praised the school's organizing committee for their efforts in hosting such an impactful event.

During the inaugural session, the chief guest, Dr. Manju Sharma, spoke about the importance of adolescent health and stressed the need for research in this field. Dr. V.M. Katoch (Former Secretary, DHR & ICMR) shared his thoughts on recent challenges and advancements in adolescent health research and development. He stated that this conference plays a critical role in addressing adolescent health issues.

Professor N.K. Lohia, President of ISSRF, discussed the advancements in the field of adolescent health. The conference also featured discussions on the 30th edition of the ISSRF newsletter, Lifestyle Diseases – A Matter of Concern for Adolescents, which included articles written by the school's students. The audience highly appreciated the contributions.

Throughout the day, eminent doctors delivered lectures on critical aspects of adolescent health. Special guest Dr. V.M. Katoch emphasized the role of research and new technologies in public health, while Padma Bhushan Professor G.P. Talwar shared his views on the significance of progress in adolescent health research. Dr. Arun Chougule discussed recent technological advancements in cancer diagnosis and treatment, Dr. Kiran Katoch addressed the challenges associated with adolescent health, and Dr. Paramjeet Khurana highlighted the importance of nutrition for adolescents.

Moreover, Dr. Narendra Mehra spoke on the feasibility of xenotransplantation (an advanced transplantation technique), Dr. Roopraj Bhardwaj elaborated on the impact of Ayurveda on adolescent lifestyles, and Dr. Pradyumna Kumar Mishra explained the challenges in identifying non-communicable diseases.

The conference aimed to educate students about new technologies for addressing various health issues. The lectures were intended to raise health awareness among students and encourage them to seek better healthcare services.

During the event, a poster and rangoli exhibition themed "Technological Advances in Adolescent Health Research" was organized by the students. Ten teams from nine schools, including Birla Public School Pilani, Birla School Pilani, Birla Public School Ganganagar, CEERI Vidya Mandir Pilani, Janki Devi Mandelia School Pilani, Pilani Public School, Bal Niketan School Pilani, Vedant International School Chirawa, Jamuna Mishra Academy Pilani, and Kanoria Kanya Mahavidyalaya College Jaipur, showcased their creative and innovative ideas.

The entries were judged by a distinguished panel: Prof. A. S. Ansari (University of Rajasthan), Dr. P. K. Mishra (Scientist-F & Head, Division of EBGMB, ICMR-NIREH, Bhopal), and Prof. Rita Singh (Chairperson, Division of Molecular Endocrinology and Reproduction, Delhi University).

The winners were:
1st place: Frenee Nagar and Amisha Amaresh from Birla Balika Vidyapeeth
2nd place: Anay Keshav and Turaanya from Birla Public School, Pilani
3rd place: Khushilina Konthoujam and Tanvi Kaushik from Birla Balika Vidyapeeth

The delegates praised the students for their scientific insight and creativity, encouraging them to tackle real-world challenges by ideating solutions, testing, analyzing, and refining their concepts.

Additionally, cultural programs were held in the evening. Students also presented yoga demonstrations and street plays on the school grounds. The school's renowned band captivated the audience with its enchanting performance.

The conference concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the organizing secretary, Mrs. Anita Mishra.

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