The Centre for Social Work Studies, Dibrugarh University, in collaboration with Pratishruti Cancer and Palliative Trust, organised a one-day training programme on “Cancer and Palliative Care” on 24th September 2024, at the Indira Miri Conference Hall, Dibrugarh University. The primary objective of the programme was to raise awareness and provide comprehensive training on cancer and palliative care, with a special focus on community-level initiatives.
The event was inaugurated by Prof. Jiten Hazarika, Honourable Vice-Chancellor of Dibrugarh University, who underscored the importance of holistic approaches to cancer care. Following his address, Dr. Paramananda Sonowal, Registrar of the university, and Prof. N. K. Gogoi, Chairperson of the Centre for Social Work Studies, spoke about the university’s commitment to social welfare. A key highlight of the session was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Dibrugarh University and Pratishruti Cancer and Palliative Trust, formalizing their partnership in cancer care services.
Dr. Gayatri Gogoi, Associate Professor at Assam Medical College and Hospital, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the critical role of palliative care in enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients, and the need for community-driven initiatives in this field.
The training included a series of insightful sessions. Miss Panna Bharali, Secretary of Pratishruti Cancer and Palliative Trust, introduced the “Pratishruti Model Activities in Cancer Care for Communities.” This was followed by a session on palliative care led by Dr. G. S. Borgohain, Vice-President of the Trust, and a session on nutritional support for cancer patients, conducted by Mrs. Lukimaa Baruah.
Further sessions focused on practical experiences in the field. Mrs. Deepali Saikia, Vice-President of the Trust, shared her experience in managing the Pratishruti Helpline, while Mrs. Asmita Kalita discussed the vital role of volunteers in cancer care. These interactive discussions were enriched by personal experiences shared by other members of Pratishruti Trust.
In the fourth session, participants engaged in hands-on activities, including blood pressure and blood sugar monitoring, facilitated by volunteers, and demonstrations of first-aid techniques such as dressing and bandaging, led by members of the Trust.
The final session featured talks on oral cancer by Dr. Foujia Shireen Hakeem, and the role of media in cancer awareness, presented by Mr. Ratan Hazarika. The day concluded with a discussion on “Project Sambhav,” focusing on community funding for cancer care, led by Mr. Padum Poona Baruah.
The programme successfully fostered collaboration and knowledge-sharing between academic institutions and healthcare organisations, promoting a collective effort in improving cancer care services. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Kristy Rekha Chamuah, Assistant Professor at the Centre for Social Work Studies, who expressed gratitude to all speakers, organisers, and participants for their contributions.
The event was coordinated by Dr. Monuj Dutta and Ms. Bristi Buragohain of the Centre for Social Work Studies.
