Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Nov 14: Constipation, fatigue, hypothermia and cramps are few of the many health issues we face by not drinking enough water every day.
Today’s children who leave home early morning and come back late evening after their school and coaching classes, often skip drinking water. Many do not carry a bottle of water with them and many of those who do, take the bottle back home without drinking the water.
Dr Ananth Prabhu G, professor teaching at Sahyadri College of Engineering who is also the cyber security trainer for the Police and Judiciary came across a post on Facebook where students are made to drink water compulsorily every 3 hours.
A unique Water Bell is rung, to remind students to take out their water bottles and drink. Inspired by this post, Dr Prabhu wanted all students in Mangaluru and all over Karnataka to follow this concept. Therefore, along with Raichur superintendent of police, Dr Vedamurthy CB, he distributed water bottles to the students of St Agnes aided Kannada primary school.
He also requested the headmistress, Sr Jyothsna to incorporate Water Bell in the regular time table of the school every day for which she readily agreed. Thus, St Agnes became the first school in Mangaluru to follow the Water Bell concept. Around 230 bottles were distributed to the students present.
Dr Vedamurthy said, "For a student to succeed, we know that proper rest, a distraction-free study area, and good nutrition are paramount. But one simple fact is often overlooked. Drinking water can make a big difference in helping students to stay focused, creative, and energized. Yes, it’s that simple. Studies show that brain function can be improved by 14% with proper hydration. Just like a car, when we are running low on fluids, things don’t work so well. When the body goes for a long period of time without drinking water, brain cells lose efficiency and we have trouble staying focused and completing tasks."
Dr Prabhu hopes to create awareness on the initiative through social media and conducting interaction programmes. He also revealed his plans on bringing the initiative to the notice of MLAs, MPs and ministers to issue a directive to schools and colleges to compulsorily incorporate the water bell initiative in the school schedule.
Dr Prabhu has requested philanthropists to install water purifiers in schools and donate water bottles to children.
Rajesh Ram, Vaikunt Prabhu, Ganesh Mulky were present. Sr Jyothsna, delivered the vote of thanks.