Patna, February 04, 2026: Reaffirming its commitment to gender equality, women’s health, and inclusive sensitisation, the International School of Management (ISM), Patna, through its Internal Complaint Committee (ICC) in collaboration with the Gender Sensitization Cell, organised a Doctor-Led Cervical Cancer Awareness Session on the occasion of World Cancer Day. The programme was held in association with Gulmohar Maitri, a not-for-profit organisation working extensively in cancer prevention, early detection, and women’s health awareness. The session was graced by Mrs. Nivedita Singh, Hon’ble Member of the Bihar Legislative Council, as the Chief Guest. Ms. Manju Sinha, Founder and Secretary of Gulmohar Maitri, was the Special Guest of the programme. Ms. Manju Sinha is also associated with Aarogya Maitri E-Clinic, has served as Architect – Operation 1971 (War Play), and is a Member of the Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) & Surrogacy Board, Health Department, Government of Bihar.
The initiative was organised under the leadership of Vice-chairman, Mr. Deval Singh, with guidance from Dr. Sandeep Kumar, Director, ISM, Patna, Dr. Sweta Rani, Academic Head, and Ms. Neeru Kumari, Admin. The event was efficiently coordinated by Ms. Swati Savarn, Chairperson, Cultural Committee, and witnessed active participation from undergraduate and postgraduate students of the institute.
The Keynote Address was delivered by Dr. Tanvi Raj, a renowned Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Mediversal Maatri, Patna, who provided a medically sound and student-friendly overview of cervical cancer, the second most common cancer among women. Dr. Raj elaborated on the causes of cervical cancer, the role of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), early symptoms, and the critical importance of prevention through early detection and HPV vaccination. She also informed the students about the free HPV vaccination initiatives by the Government of India, stressing the need for awareness and timely action.
The programme commenced with a Welcome and Inaugural Address by Ms. Neeru Kumari, Administrator, ISM, Patna, who underscored the institute’s vision of gender equality and women’s health sensitisation without any gender bias. She emphasised that health awareness is not a women-only issue, but a shared social responsibility requiring informed participation from all genders.
In her impactful address, Mrs. Nivedita Singh drew attention to the alarming statistic that every ninth person is affected by cancer, urging students, especially young women, to take preventive health measures seriously. She lauded the sustained efforts of Gulmohar Maitri and ISM, Patna, to bring such crucial conversations into academic spaces and empower youth with life-saving knowledge.
Addressing the gathering, Ms. Manju Sinha highlighted the interconnection between physical and mental health, emphasizing personal hygiene, lifestyle choices, and emotional well-being as essential components of cancer prevention and overall health. Her address resonated strongly with students, particularly in its focus on practical, everyday health practices.
The event also saw the presence of several dignitaries and faculty members, including Dr. Sunita, Chairperson, Gender Sensitization Cell, Mr. Rajeshwar Dayal (Management), Ms. Pooja Dubey (Commerce), Mr. Sudhir Kumar Sinha, and HoD, Computer Applications, who collectively reinforced the institute’s commitment to holistic education and student well-being.
Proposing the Vote of Thanks, Ms. Neeru Kumari expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Chief Guest, Special Guest, keynote speaker, organisers, and participants for making the programme meaningful and impactful. In her concluding takeaway note, she remarked: “Today’s session reminds us that awareness is the first step towards prevention. When young minds are informed, they become ambassadors of change, not only for themselves, but for families and communities. Let us take forward the message that health awareness, dignity, and equality go hand in hand, and that an informed society is a healthier society.”
The session concluded with an interactive discussion, leaving students more informed, confident, and motivated to prioritise preventive healthcare and spread awareness within their social circles.
