The ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (ICAR-CIFT) commemorated World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) from November 18–23, 2024, under the global theme, “Educate. Advocate. Act now.” The event aimed to raise awareness about antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and promote preventive measures to combat this global health challenge.
In collaboration with the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS), ICAR-CIFT conducted several activities on November 21, 2024, at the KUFOS campus, including:
- An awareness talk titled “Antimicrobial Resistance: The Silent Global Pandemic” by Dr. Greeshma S. S., Scientist, MFB Division, ICAR-CIFT.
- A collage competition on AMR to encourage creative expression on the topic.
- A quiz competition focused on AMR for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
These events attracted 130 enthusiastic participants from KUFOS.
On November 22, 2024, special lectures on “Antibiotics, AMR, and Its Mitigation Measures” were held at Seventh Day Adventist School, Kaloor, and Kendriya Vidyalaya No. 1, Ernakulam. Coordinated by Dr. Visnuvinayagam and Smt. Muthulakshmi, these sessions engaged 120 students in meaningful discussions about AMR prevention.
Continuing the campaign, on November 23, 2024, Dr. Greeshma S. S. and Mr. Ezhil Nilavan, Scientists at ICAR-CIFT, conducted awareness talks and a quiz competition at Gregorian Public School, Maradu, Cochin. A total of 200 students attended the program, where they learned about AMR’s impact on human and animal health, food production, and the environment.
To symbolize solidarity against AMR, the Microbiology, Fermentation, and Biotechnology Division staff of ICAR-CIFT observed “Go Blue Day,” donning blue attire as part of the global awareness campaign.
All activities were conducted under the leadership of Dr. George Ninan, Director, ICAR-CIFT, and involved contributions from scientists and staff members. The week-long campaign successfully engaged over 500 participants, spreading critical awareness about AMR and emphasizing the importance of preventive measures to curb its spread.
These collaborative initiatives highlight ICAR-CIFT’s commitment to educating the public and advocating for collective action against antimicrobial resistance.
