NONGPOH, April 16: In a significant step towards promoting healthy school environments, the Office of the Block Mission Coordinator (BMC) of SSA-SEMAM, Umling Block Resource Centre, on Wednesday, handed over appreciation awards to 15 schools under Umling Block for their outstanding commitment to the Tobacco-Free Educational Institution initiative for the year 2024.
The awards were presented as part of a special programme held in Nongpoh, recognising the schools’ active participation in implementing tobacco-free measures. The initiative falls under the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP), aimed at ensuring educational institutions remain free from all forms of tobacco consumption.
In addition to schools, BMC-Umling staff members were also felicitated for their dedicated efforts in successfully implementing the ToFEI campaign within the block.
Nongpoh MLA Mayralborn Syiem attended the event as the chief guest, accompanied by Joint Director of the District School Education & Literacy (DSEL), Ri-Bhoi, Ruby Z Das, and District School Education Officer (DSEO), KB Jyrwa, along with other dignitaries.
Speaking on the occasion, Nongpoh MLA Mayralborn Syiem lauded the 15 schools for their proactive stance against tobacco use. He emphasised that the fight against tobacco and drug abuse is a moral and public health obligation, pointing out that tobacco use is among the leading causes of preventable deaths. He also proudly shared that he has never used tobacco and consistently campaigns against tobacco, drug abuse, and other harmful substances at every public platform he addresses.
Syiem also commended the BMC SSA-SEMAM Umling BRC for holding the recognition ceremony, stating that acknowledgment of hard work is essential. “Recognition and encouragement boost morale and inspire individuals and institutions to work even harder,” he said. “Without appreciation, people may lose motivation and interest in contributing meaningfully.”
He further highlighted alarming health statistics, stating that according to data from the Health department, around 60 to 65 per cent of deaths are attributed to cancer, with men being more affected than women. While cancer can be caused by several factors, he said, one of the primary contributors remains the consumption of tobacco in various forms.
