- Districts and field workers honored for their commendable work; discussions held on multi-sectoral coordination to strengthen the Saathiya program.
The National Health Mission , Madhya Pradesh, organized a state-level Saathiya Samagam in Bhopal on October 22nd under the National Adolescent Health Program. The objective of the Samagam was to strengthen the role of Saathiya in promoting the health and well-being of adolescents , share their experiences and innovations, and discuss future strategies for the effective implementation of the Saathiya program in the state.
The program was chaired by Dr. Saloni Sidana, Mission Director , National Health Mission , and Dr. Zoya Rizvi, Deputy Commissioner, Government of India, attended as a special guest (virtually). Representatives from various departments and development partner organizations, including Dr. Sharad Tiwari , Joint Director , National Adolescent Health Program, and Dr. Deepesh Gupta, State Head, UNFPA, participated.
During the event, the ” Saksham Saathiya Sashakt Samuday ” initiative ( S- 4 Innovation) under the National Adolescent Health Program, Madhya Pradesh, was highlighted , along with the program’s concept , key objectives , progress to date, and achievements. A video of the S- 4 initiative was also screened, and the innovation was praised by Government of India officials. Districts and field workers with commendable work were honored for their contributions.
The program provided an opportunity for peers and field workers to share their experiences through a session titled ” Voices of Champions . ” This session discussed program implementation at the grassroots level , communication with adolescents, and efforts to raise awareness about health and wellness.
The gathering featured a panel discussion on ” Multi-Sectoral Partnerships to Strengthen the RKSK and Saathiya Programs: The Way Forward . ” The discussion focused on strengthening coordination and collaboration between the Health Department , School Education Department , Women and Child Development Department, and development partner organizations. The discussion emphasized the importance of departmental convergence , community participation, and coordinated efforts at various levels for the holistic development of adolescents.
The National Health Mission , Madhya Pradesh, is committed to the health , well-being, and empowerment of adolescents . Through the Saathiya program, continuous efforts are being made to build a healthy , aware, and empowered community by ensuring the active participation of adolescents.