KSHEMA celebrates Paediatric Surgery Week 2026 with awareness drives and patient engagement programmes
Mangalore Today News Network
Mangaluru, Jun 12, 2026: The Department of Paediatric Surgery at K S Hegde Medical Academy (KSHEMA) and Justice K S Hegde Charitable Hospital, Deralakatte, observed Paediatric Surgery Week 2026 from June 4 to 10 with a range of awareness campaigns, academic programmes and patient-engagement activities under the theme, "Safe Surgery for Every Child."
The week-long initiative was aimed at raising awareness about paediatric surgical conditions, encouraging early diagnosis and treatment, and reinforcing the institution’s commitment to providing safe, accessible and child-friendly surgical care.
As part of the observance, faculty members from the department participated in an awareness programme on a popular local television channel, educating the public about common surgical conditions affecting newborns and children. The experts highlighted the importance of timely medical intervention and informed viewers about the availability of affordable and specialised paediatric surgical services at the institution.
Several academic activities were organised during the week to promote learning and enhance awareness among healthcare professionals and students. Quiz competitions for undergraduate and postgraduate students, along with a poster competition for staff and students, witnessed enthusiastic participation.
In a gesture aimed at supporting families in need, the Department of Paediatric Surgery offered a 50 per cent concession on surgeries performed between June 4 and 10 for children attending the outpatient department during the week. The initiative benefited several families and reflected the hospital’s efforts to make quality healthcare more affordable and accessible.
The celebrations concluded on June 10 with a patient engagement programme attended by former paediatric surgical patients and their families. Around 50 children and 80 family members took part in the event, which featured face painting, tattoo art, balloon modelling and various interactive activities designed to create a cheerful atmosphere. Cultural performances by the children added vibrancy to the programme.
The event also included addresses by dignitaries, experience-sharing sessions by parents whose children had undergone successful surgeries, prize distribution and a cake-cutting ceremony. The programme received an overwhelming response from patients, families and hospital staff, celebrating resilience, recovery and compassionate care.
Through the observance of Paediatric Surgery Week 2026, KSHEMA and Justice K S Hegde Charitable Hospital reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that every child receives safe, timely and high-quality surgical care, enabling young patients to lead healthier and brighter lives.