NATIONAL NUTRITION WEEK

The Centre for Counselling and Health Services (CCHS) at CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Pune Lavasa Campus, organized National Nutrition Week 2025 from 1st to 7th September. The week-long observance was planned with the purpose of creating awareness about healthy eating habits, clearing up common misconceptions about nutrition, and encouraging students and staff to adopt balanced dietary practices in their everyday lives. Rather than limiting the celebration to lectures or information sessions, the team ensured the activities were varied, interactive, and accessible to everyone on campus as well as through online platforms. This made the initiative not only informative but also engaging for a wide range of participants.

The first activity of the week was a Word Maze Challenge featuring nutrition and health-related terms. It was designed to introduce students to important concepts in a fun and interactive way. The maze was shared both in classrooms and digitally, which meant students across programmes could take part without difficulty. Many found themselves discussing the terms with peers, trying to finish the puzzle quickly while also learning something new. The exercise demonstrated how playfulness could be effectively combined with education, making the message of healthy eating memorable and enjoyable at the same time.

The second activity moved to the digital space with a week-long campaign on Instagram. Each day, the CCHS team posted stories and updates that highlighted practical tips, corrected misinformation, and emphasized the value of balanced meals. Topics included portion control, the importance of hydration, and how traditional Indian diets contribute to overall health. The content was visually appealing and interactive, featuring polls, quizzes, and question stickers that allowed students to actively participate rather than passively consume information. The response was impressive, with students engaging through comments and direct messages, sharing their personal reflections, and raising questions about diet and lifestyle. The team took the time to address these queries, turning the campaign into an open conversation rather than a one-way flow of information. This use of social media created a sense of virtual community around nutrition awareness, reaching even those who might not have participated in on-campus activities.

The third initiative focused on a more practical, everyday concern: the food choices students make in the campus canteens. To guide these choices, the team designed Diet Chart Displays placed prominently outside all canteen spaces. These charts suggested clear, affordable, and accessible meal options curated to match the canteen menu. By aligning advice with actual food available on campus, the charts turned general nutritional guidance into specific, actionable steps. Many students were seen reading the charts before placing their orders, which reflected an immediate influence on their decision-making. The simplicity of the display ensured it could serve as a quick yet effective reminder of healthier alternatives.

Taken together, the three activities provided a holistic experience that blended entertainment, digital outreach, and real-world application. The week succeeded in spreading knowledge, but more importantly, it encouraged students to reflect on their daily choices and make small but meaningful adjustments. The collaboration of faculty, student volunteers, and staff showed the collective commitment of the campus community to wellbeing. National Nutrition Week 2025, therefore, was not just a themed observance but a lively and impactful effort that left students and staff more informed, more engaged, and more motivated to lead healthier lives.

Conclusion: National Nutrition Week 2025 at CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Pune Lavasa Campus, was more than a series of activities. It was an opportunity for students and staff to pause, reflect, and act on something as fundamental as the way we eat. By combining fun, digital engagement, and practical guidance, the initiative turned awareness into action and learning into lived experience. The enthusiasm and feedback from the campus community made it clear that conversations about nutrition are not only necessary but also welcome. With this momentum, the CCHS has set the stage for continued efforts that support healthier habits and reinforce the university’s vision of holistic wellbeing.