Avinashilingam institute for home science and higher education for women on Monday organized Dr Rajammal P Devadas annual oration award ceremony to commemorate the birth anniversary of nutrition pioneer Dr Rajammal P Devadas at its premises in the city.
Rajammal was a leading nutritionist of international repute, the first vice-chancellor of Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women during 1988 to 1994, and its chancellor from 1994.
She played a key role in formulating the mid-day meal scheme, aiming to eliminate child hunger and increase school enrolment. This initiative has brought lasting educational and economic impact to the state, empowering generations of youth.
Her legacy continues through numerous academic and welfare initiatives.
The award instituted in her memory, recognizes individuals whose contributions echo her values and commitment to social change. This year the award was presented to Sudha Ramalingam, professor and head of community education, director PSG FAIMER regional institute. The award was presented by Gowri Ramakrishna, assistant managing trustee of Avinashilingam education trust institutions.
Sudha presented the annual oration lecture on ‘Future proofing India: Working together for NCD prevention’. She highlighted the traditional risk factors for non-communicable diseases and stated that the onset of such NCD’s in a considerable percentage of the younger generation is an alarm.
V Bharathi Harishankar, vice-chancellor said that Rajammal created a legacy, which the current stakeholders of the institution must uphold, protect and cherish and said that the task of upholding her legacy requires hard work, setting higher benchmarks and taking the Institution to great heights.
S Amsamani, dean of School of home science welcomed the gathering, while H Indu, registrar delivered a vote of thanks.