The Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), Agnes Towards Community (ATC) and Youth Red Cross (YRC) Unit of St Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru, in collaboration with SBI Life Insurance Company, organised a Breast Cancer Awareness Programme on the occasion of World Cancer Day on 4 February 2026 at 2.00 PM in A4 Hall.
As part of the World Cancer Day observance, purple ribbons symbolising cancer awareness were distributed in the morning to all the staff and students of the St Agnes College campus, fostering solidarity and promoting awareness on cancer prevention and early detection.
The programme commenced with a prayer song rendered by the sisters of III BA, invoking blessings for the success of the session. The gathering was then warmly welcomed by Ms Ananya K of III BA.
The context of the programme was set by the Emcee, followed by the felicitation of the dignitaries, marking the formal inauguration of the programme. The programme was successfully coordinated under the guidance of Dr Shailaja H G, Coordinator – Agnes Towards Community (ATC), and Mrs Nimitha K, Programme Officer – Youth Red Cross (YRC).
Mr Ravindra Sharma then delivered a talk titled “Thanks A Dot – Making Breast Cancer a Living Room Conversation & Financial Preparedness”, highlighting the importance of open conversations on breast cancer, early diagnosis through awareness, and the role of financial preparedness in healthcare management.
The highlight of the programme was the session by Dr Vinay Kumar Rajendra, Oncologist, CanCure Oncology Clinic, Mangaluru. He delivered an informative and engaging talk on breast cancer awareness and demonstrated the use of the TAD (Thanks A Dot) kit, educating students on self-examination techniques and early warning signs. This was followed by an interactive question-and-answer session, during which students actively clarified their doubts.
Subsequently, Dr Zubeida H, Head of the Department of English, addressed the gathering, emphasising the importance of awareness, empathy, and informed dialogue in overcoming the social stigma associated with cancer.
Student testimonials were collected, reflecting the positive impact of the programme and the enhanced awareness gained through the interaction. As a token of encouragement and participation, goodies were distributed to the students.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by the Emcee, acknowledging the speakers, organisers, and all participants for their valuable contributions. The session successfully fulfilled its objective of creating awareness, encouraging open conversations, and empowering students with essential knowledge on breast cancer.
