KARIMNAGAR: To promote health and personal hygiene among young women, Satavahana University and the Prathima Foundation jointly organised a health awareness programme titled ‘Empowerment Hygiene’ at the Ambedkar library auditorium at the university in Karimnagar on Tuesday.

During the event, Dr Boyinapalli Harini, founder of Pratima Foundation and director of Pratima Group, donated sanitary pad disposal machines to the university.

Harini emphasised the importance of breaking the silence surrounding menstrual health. She urged students to view menstruation as a natural process.

“Youth should contribute to a healthy society by staying aware of cleanliness. They are organising this programme to boost health, hygiene and self-confidence among girl students,” she stated, adding that the foundation remained committed to more such social service activities in the future.

Medical experts addressed the students during the session. Dr Satya Prabha, head of gynaecology, explained that proper hygiene from a young age can prevent several health issues. Dr Geetha Reddy, a specialist in general surgery and dermatology, warned that neglect in cleanliness could lead to skin infections. “Pad disposal machines not only keep the environment clean but also prevent the spread of infections.”

Vice-chancellor Prof U Umesh Kumar thanked the Pratima Foundation for the donation and urged them to organise more health camps on campus.