SLSU-Hinunangan Inspires Change and Saves Lives Through Simultaneous Blood Letting and Health Symposia Event
On November 8, 2023, the Southern Leyte State University - Hinunangan Campus (SLSU-HC) conducted a significant "Simultaneous Blood Letting Activity and Symposia." This undertaking was the result of a collaborative effort between the campus' National Service Training Program (NSTP) Office, Health Services Offices (HSO), and Student and Auxiliary Services (SAS) Office, exemplifying the university's commitment to community engagement and well-being.
Held at the Student Welfare and Development Center (SWaDC), the event attracted diverse participants. The symposia segment primarily targeted first-year students enrolled in NSTP courses and individuals with a vested interest in the subjects discussed. Expert speakers, each specializing in their respective fields, delivered insightful lectures and interactive discussions on critical health topics. Ms. Grace Suan, a Med-Tech from the Rural Health Unit (RHU), provided valuable insights into STD/HIV awareness. Ms. Jenilyn Faye Arago, an RHU Nurse, shared her expertise on teenage pregnancy, while Ms. Rizza Mae Dator, the School Nurse of SLSU-HC, enlightened attendees on dengue awareness.
Simultaneously, at the Multipurpose Academic Building (MAB), the Blood Letting initiative was spearheaded by the Rural Health Unit (RHU) of Hinunangan and the Eastern Visayas Medical Center (EVMC) of Tacloban City. This event segment witnessed wholehearted participation from students, faculty, and staff of SLSU-HC, who selflessly donated blood. Their contribution undoubtedly significantly impacted the community's health and well-being.
This event exemplified the university's commitment to promoting awareness and community engagement and showcased the power of Education and collective action. As Ms. Suan, one of the symposium speakers, eloquently stated, "Education is the key to raising awareness and promoting a healthier community. Knowledge is the first step to preventing health issues." The event educated the participants and encouraged them to promote community health actively.
In the words of Ms. Arago, another symposium speaker, "Empowering young minds with information about teenage pregnancy and its consequences is crucial. We believe that by arming them with knowledge, we can help reduce the incidence of teenage pregnancies in our community."
The Blood Letting activity, conducted in parallel, highlighted the importance of collective contribution to public health, as a participant noted, "Donating blood is an act of selflessness and kindness. It is a simple yet significant way to save lives."
In conclusion, the "Simultaneous Blood Letting Activity and Symposia" was a powerful reminder of the positive impact of Education and community engagement. By raising awareness and encouraging participation, the event left a lasting imprint on the participants and the broader community, emphasizing the significance of collective action in pursuing better public health.
