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Outreach Programmes and Projects in the Local Community

Outreach Programmes and Projects in the Local Community

Centurion University actively delivers a range of outreach programs and projects in the local community to improve and promote health and well-being, covering various aspects such as hygiene, nutrition, family planning, sports, exercise, ageing well, and other health and wellness topics. Our approach is both programmed and ad-hoc, ensuring sustained impact through regular, structured programs and addressing specific community needs as they arise.

Essilor Collaborates with Centurion University for Rural Eye Screening and Spectacle Distribution programs

In a groundbreaking initiative to enhance ocular health in rural India, Essilor, the global leader in ophthalmic optics, has partnered with Centurion University to launch comprehensive eye screening and free spectacle distribution programs. This dynamic collaboration aims to provide vital eye care services to underserved communities in Titlagarh, Totapada, Panabaraj, Puri, Bhawanipatna, Pandua, Balasore, Jolda Bisra, Kuarmunda, Kapatmunda, Dareikela, Dalki, Salangabahar, Dumerjhore, Gangapada, Lathikata, Suidhi, Rourkela and Bhubaneswar. The impact has been profound. In 2023, these camps have benefitted more than 12000 patients by providing free spectacles and vision screenings, which have been conducted for approximately 17806 individuals. These meticulously organized camps identify common vision problems and provide high-quality spectacles to those in need, effectively transforming lives. Centurion University’s robust community outreach has been instrumental in this endeavour. Young students and faculty members have played a crucial role in raising awareness and supporting these events, ensuring that the initiative reaches those who need it most and for collaborative research. The enthusiastic participation of the university’s community highlights the power of education and social responsibility working hand in hand.

Free vision screening camp organised at Panabaraj Panchayat in February 2023
Free spectacle distribution during the vision screening camp organised at Totapada in June 2023
Free vision screening camp for the local community of Titlagarh

The local communities have responded with overwhelming positivity, showcasing the significant impact of strategic collaborations on social welfare. This partnership between Essilor and Centurion University is about providing immediate eye care and fostering a culture of regular eye health check-ups and proactive vision care in rural areas. With plans to expand these efforts, Essilor and Centurion University are paving the way for a brighter, more transparent future for rural India. This initiative is a testament to the transformative power of collaborative research, education resources, and a shared commitment to improving lives.

Centurion University Drives Vision Care Revolution with “Healthcare on the Wheels”

Centurion University, a trailblazer in community-centric healthcare, continues its transformative impact by launching the “Healthcare on the Wheels” vision care vehicle in November 2023, marking a historic milestone as the first university in Odisha to pioneer such an initiative. Good Health and Well-being can be achieved by expanding the University’s longstanding commitment to serving rural Odisha with essential healthcare solutions. For years, Centurion University has led health screening and vision care camps across rural areas of Odisha, reaching marginalised communities and providing essential health and eye care services. These camps have played a crucial role in providing preventive health measures. Building on this legacy, the “Healthcare on the Wheels” initiative, funded by LTIMindtree, delivers free doctor consultations, routine health check-ups, and comprehensive eye tests, connects patients with medical professionals, and offers affordable eyewear solutions directly to those in need. Dr. Mukti Kanta Mishra, President of Centurion University, highlights the profound impact that accessible eye care has on individuals and communities. He highlighted that the initiative represents a continuation of the University’s mission to empower underserved populations with essential healthcare services, addressing the urgent need for accessible eye care in rural Odisha through strategic partnerships and a focus on community engagement. Ms. Sonalika Mohapatra, a School of Paramedics faculty member, oversees the initiative. Under her supervision, the Healthcare on the Wheels has facilitated camps in remote locations of Chhanaghara, Haripur, Kantia, Jaipur and several other villages of Odisha. The University’s new mobile health unit promotes awareness of eye health, preventive measures, and the importance of regular check-ups, embodying the principles by ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages. Centurion University’s commitment to holistic education and community development, through initiatives like the “Healthcare on the Wheels” healthcare vehicle, sets new benchmarks in healthcare accessibility and community engagement. The initiative also underscores the importance of youth engagement by involving students in outreach activities, fostering a sense of social responsibility and practical experience.

Healthcare on the Wheels, a mobile healthcare service by Centurion University

Vision Care Camp, in collaboration with Rourkela Steel Plant

Centurion University, in collaboration with Rourkela Steel Plant, has launched a transformative initiative in May 2023 to address uncorrected refractive error, a leading cause of preventable blindness globally. Through its Optometry Department, the University spearheads social outreach vision camps across Odisha and neighbouring states, providing free visual treatment and spectacles to underprivileged individuals in alignment with the Vision 2020 initiative to eliminate preventable blindness. The drive was planned in 3 phases covering several villages of Odisha under the supervision of Ms. Salony Pattnaik and Ms. Sushree Swagatika. The 1st Phase 1 of it was held on the outskirts of Rourkela, covering the villages of Suidhi, Lathikata, Jolda, and Bisra panchayats. The camp conducted 540 free eye screenings, diagnosing various visual impairments and providing 450 individuals with prescription glasses. Phase 2, extended the Mobile Vision Care Service to peripheral zones of Rourkela, including Bisra, Santoshpur, Kapatmunda, HA English School, and Dareikela, resulting in 589 eye screenings and 502 individuals receiving spectacles. Phase 3 reached six more Panchayats—Dalki, Sarangabahara, Dumejhore, Usra, Padmapur, and Kuarmunda—where the team conducted over 900 eye tests and distributed free spectacles. Centurion University also established an in-house optical outlet within its Bhubaneswar campus, operating under the Community Diagnostic Centre banner. This initiative serves the University community, contributes to the local economy, and fulfils its social responsibility.

The partnership with Rourkela Steel Plant has facilitated extensive eye screening and lens dispensing for over 6000 patients in underserved communities. Centurion University promotes overall health and well-being by providing essential eye care services to rural communities. The comprehensive eye examinations and screenings facilitate early detection of vision impairments and other ocular diseases, contributing to preventive healthcare measures. The provision of free spectacles and affordable eyewear solutions ensures financial constraints do not hinder access to essential eye care services, aligning to achieve universal health coverage. Improved vision enhances individuals’ quality of life, enabling more effective participation in educational resources and economic activities, thereby contributing to community development and well-being.

Centurion University’s mobile vision care unit brings essential health care services to rural communities in Odisha
Students from the Optometry department documenting patient data at the Usra eye camp
Faculty and volunteers assisting patients at Kuarmunda village camp
Free eye screening and Spectacle distribution camp in remote panchayat of Khordha district
Registration counters at the eye camp in Santoshpur, where patients are guided through the check-in process

Health Camp at Bulan Bhai Sambadik Bhawan, Bhubaneswar

The University facilitated free elderly care services through a health camp in collaboration with Jai Maa Bhawani Charitable Trust, at Bulan Bhai Sambadik Bhawan, Bhubaneswar. A dedicated team of students and faculty assessed patients, conducted evaluations, and provided physiotherapy treatments, including personalized home exercise programs. This initiative supported public health improvement by addressing the healthcare needs of the elderly in the community, offering essential care while providing students with invaluable hands-on learning under faculty mentorship. The camp further strengthened the University’s commitment to community health and education.

Physiotherapy camp at Bulan Bhai Sambadik Bhawan in Bhubaneswar

Mega Blood Donation Camps

The University has actively contributed to healthcare services by organising multiple blood donation camps to support local blood banks. A significant camp was held off-campus at AIIMS Blood Bank, Bhubaneswar, on 21st April 2023, inaugurated by Dr. Dillip Kumar Parida, Medical Superintendent of AIIMS Bhubaneswar. Additionally, the University hosted mega blood donation drives on its premises on 30th September 2023 and organised voluntary camps at Capital Hospital Blood Bank. These initiatives demonstrate the University’s commitment to community health and its proactive role in promoting life-saving practices.

Volunteers donating blood at AIIMS, Bhubaneswar, marking the 24th blood drive conducted by Centurion University

Transforming healthcare service with innovative medical kiosk machine – spotcare™

Spotcare is transforming healthcare accessibility in India with its innovative, patient-centric platform, the medical kiosk machines in the diagnostic facility of Centurion University since 2022. Reaching difficult geographies like Rayagada and Balangir, Spotcare, a state-of-the-art medical kiosk machine is on a mission to make healthcare services more accessible and convenient for all. These kiosks are strategically promoting wide health coverage and ensuring access to quality essential healthcare services. With the ability to facilitate remote consultations, these kiosks provide patients with the same comfort and support as traditional face-to-face doctor visits, revolutionising the way healthcare is delivered. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, Spotcare brings significant value to healthcare delivery, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness. Expanding its reach, Spotcare is bridging the gap in healthcare access, reducing geographical disparities, and ensuring that even the most remote populations receive the care they need. This initiative is not just about healthcare; it’s about fostering healthy lives and promoting well-being for people of all ages. Spotcare’s strategic placement of medical kiosks and utilisation of advanced technology underscores its commitment to improving health outcomes. By ensuring more accessible healthcare services, Spotcare is paving the way for a healthier, more equitable future for all.

Free doctor consultation through teleconsultation using the mobile kiosk machine

Exercise and Aging Well Programs

Ongoing yoga sessions and tailored exercise routines to promote physical fitness and support healthy ageing are in alignment with IKS principles. Yoga practices encourage relaxation and emotional balance, helping seniors cope with life changes, potential loneliness, or other age-related stressors.

Embracing calm, resilience, and wellness together
Yoga Practice for promoting physical fitness in ageing group

Hygiene, Family Planning, and Sexual Health Education

The University Organizes Workshops and counselling sessions that educate on reproductive health, family planning, and hygiene practices to empower community members with knowledge for informed choices.

Counselling Session on Hygiene and Family Planning in a near Panchayat

Sports and Physical Fitness Sessions

The University organises sports activities, including regular fitness camps, tournaments, and training sessions, to encourage physical activity and promote a healthy lifestyle. These programs target various age groups and abilities, making fitness accessible to all.

Participants from nearby communities for sports activities at Centurion University

Student Volunteering and Community Engagement

Our students are encouraged to actively engage in these outreach initiatives as volunteers, gaining practical experience while fostering community development. This engagement provides valuable hands-on learning and reinforces our commitment to SDGs related to health, well-being, and social equity.

Bridging Healthcare Access for Nearby Villages

The Jan Aushadhi Center being an integral part of the Community Diagnostic Centre provides affordable and accessible healthcare solutions for people from surrounding villages. Offering a range of essential medicines at reduced prices, this centre is dedicated to improving health outcomes and supporting community wellness. By bringing high-quality, low-cost medication closer to rural areas, the centre serves as a vital healthcare resource for those in need

Jan Aushadhi Center within the University’s Bhubaneswar Campus
Medicine Distribution at Jan Aushadhi Center, Centurion University

Agri-Entrepreneurship Development Training Programme to address Nutritional issues in the community

A training program on Agri-entrepreneurship Development was organised from 4th August to 9th August 2023 at Centurion University Paralakhemundi campus. CUTM-GTET Services facilitated this training program with funding from APICOL (Agricultural Promotion and Investment Corporation of Odisha Limited). 28 residential trainees from different parts of Odisha participated in this training in two sectors, i.e., Nursery Development and Fisheries. This 5-day training program was planned as per the basic aspects, methods & lab visits, along with field applications (implementation).

Participants learning hands-on skills in nursery development and fisheries during the Agri-entrepreneurship training

Capacity building training program on “Sustainable improvement of rural livelihoods and restoration of coconut-based livelihoods through specific science-based interventions”

The M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture at Centurion University of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi, in partnership with the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Hyderabad, conducted a Capacity Building Training Programme on Mushroom and Spawn Production. This training took place from February 24th to 27th, 2023, at the Paralakhemundi campus of the University. A total of 26 farmers, accompanied by their coordinators, completed the programme. These participants were from four districts in South Odisha: Nabarangpur, Koraput, Rayagada, and Gajapati. Their training included visits to various commercial agri-based units such as the Spawn Unit, Mushroom Unit, Bakery Unit, and Microbiology Lab. They were demonstrated on the necessary steps and equipment/raw materials for spawn and mushroom production.

Farmers from South Odisha participating in training sessions on mushroom and spawn production techniques

Farmers’ Exposure Visit to Natural Farming

During the exposure visit, experts provided valuable advice and solutions on natural farming. Participants visited the Organic Research Farm (ORF), focusing on Dragon Fruit and Lemon Grass. They discussed the detailed cultivation practices for these crops and guided participants through the Dragon Fruit farming. Additionally, a detailed methodology for the nursery preparation of Dragon Fruit was shared. Participants explored the fruit block, consisting of crops such as Fig, Ber, Custard Apple, Sweet Tamarind, Rose Apple, Water Apple, Sapota, and Sweet Orange. Experts explained how these crops could be efficiently cultivated using natural farming techniques and hi-tech horticultural technologies like mulching and drip irrigation. They also learnt about Coleus cultivation under protected conditions, as an alternative to traditional crops.

Farmers learning about natural farming practices, including dragon fruit cultivation and organic farming techniques

Exposure Visit of Farmers under Odisha Livelihoods Mission (OLM)

In a one-day exposure visit organised by BMMO, OLM, Rayagada under the Department of Mission Shakti, Government of Odisha, approximately 19 members participated to explore various agricultural livelihood components. They visited multiple units including composting and vermicomposting, organic research farm, mushroom farming, apiculture, bio fertilisers and biopesticides labs, spawn unit, livestock and poultry management, dairy unit, horticulture nursery, hi-tech playhouse, Dragon Fruit cultivation, protected cultivation, and an under-exploited fruit block featuring diverse fruits.

Members of Odisha Livelihoods Mission exploring sustainable farming units, including mushroom farming and apiculture
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