Highlights and Achievements
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Department of Nutrition
Highlights and Achievements
2024-25
Guest Lectures
The Department organized a series of guest lectures and academic interactions addressing emerging areas in nutrition and allied sciences. Key sessions included:
- “Nutrition in Diabetes Care and Advances of Careers in Life Sciences” by Dr. Raju Padaya (3rd September 2024), attended by 93 participants.
- “Opportunities and Career Prospects in Public Health” by Ms. Sarah Jameel (23rd January 2025), with 58 participants.
- “Emotional Intelligence Unleashed: Mastering the Art of Connection” by Ms. Suhair Jamal (5th February 2025), engaging over 120 students.
These lectures enriched the academic discourse and exposed students to diverse perspectives from academia and industry.
Workshops and Symposium
- A Workshop on Precision Nutrition was conducted in collaboration with ION Supagene and Bugs Speaks (24th August 2024), benefitting 25+ students.
- A Hands-on Training in Basic Life Support (CPR) workshop was held on 30th November 2024 with Dhanwantri Trust, training 150+ UG and PG students in essential emergency response skills.
- Students also actively participated in intercollegiate competitions and symposiums, enhancing exposure to research and professional practices.
Research and Student Projects
The department strengthened its research culture with numerous student-led projects across UG, PG, and Diploma levels, covering innovative themes such as nutrigenetics, functional foods, lifestyle disorders, and food product development.
Faculty and students contributed to publications, community surveys, and case studies, fostering a strong research orientation.
Student Activities and Achievements
Student engagement was enhanced through various intra and inter-collegiate competitions:
- Healthy Millet Recipe Contest (June 2024)
- Slogan Writing Contest (9th September 2024) with 50+ entries
- Intercollegiate Infographic Competition (12th September 2024) with 90+ entries
- Poster Designing Contest (20th September 2024) with 60+ entries
- Nutrigames (18th–27th September 2024)
- Intercollegiate Reel-Making Contest (25th September 2024) with 52 entries
- Nutrivia Quiz Contest (19th December 2024) with 35+ participants
- Nestlé India Intercollegiate Recipe Contest “Make Bitter Better” (25th February 2025) with 30 participants
Students also participated in external seminars, field visits (Indian Institute of Millets Research, Ala Liberty Restaurant), and awareness programs, showcasing creativity and teamwork.
Alumni Interaction and Contributions
The department continued alumni engagement through interactive sessions, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Alumni contributed to career guidance and academic enrichment, supporting the vision of bridging past achievements with current student aspirations.
Faculty Development and Collaborations
Faculty members served as resource persons in academic events and engaged in continuous professional development through FDPs, seminars, and collaborations.
The department strengthened partnerships with organizations such as Nestlé India, GMR Varalakshmi Foundation, FHTS, Dhanwanthri Trust, SRNM, CoGuide, and Institute of Nutrigenetics, enriching academic-industry linkages.
Nutrition Awareness and Additional Courses
A series of community-oriented nutrition awareness activities were conducted during National Nutrition Month (August–September 2024) also in November on the occasion of world diabetes day celebration , impacting more than 300 beneficiaries.
The department also expanded academic enrichment through certificate courses in Health and Nutrition Informatics and Translational Nutrigenetics, conducted in collaboration with external partners.
Entrepreneurship and Other Initiatives
Innovative initiatives such as the Healthy Recipe Counter, Sustainable Meal Week (19th–26th September 2024), and Millet Lunch Box Policy promoted sustainable dietary habits.
Entrepreneurial activities included product development projects (energy bars, millet-based foods, fortified recipes) and collaborations with Nestlé for recipe contests and food production sessions, encouraging students’ entrepreneurial spirit
2023-24
International/National Webinars and Guest Lectures
The Deparment hosted a total of 8 international and national webinars, addressing critical topics such as Nutrigenomics, Chrono nutrition, Renal nutrition, Hyperglycaemia and its complications, Intersection between technology and nutrition among many others. These webinars provided a platform for knowledge exchange among experts and participants from across the globe. Additionally, a guest lecture on “Fad diets – Do they work” offered insights into popular dietary trends and their impact on health, enhancing students’ understanding of nutrition science.
Workshops and Symposium
– An E-Workshop focused on maximizing sports performance aimed to enhance practical skills among participants.
– A CPR workshop in collaboration with the Dhanwantri Trust aimed at equipping students with essential first aid and emergency response skills.
– A workshop for life sciences students on “Entrepreneurship and Innovation as Career Opportunities,” inspiring future leaders in the field.
Furthermore, the department organized a symposium dedicated to the “Management of PCOS,” providing a forum for discussing current research and clinical practices in addressing this prevalent health issue.
Research and Student Projects
The departement actively fostered research and academic excellence with 2 research papers published, 3 paper presentations at international conferences and ongoing work on 46 student projects. These initiatives not only contributed to advancing knowledge but also provided valuable hands-on experience to students in conducting scientific inquiries and publishing their findings.
Mrs. Urooja Birjis, Assistant Professor, Department of Nutrition was awarded Best E oral Presentation at the USFN Conference, Canada.
Student Activities and Achievements
Student engagement was bolstered through 9 extension activities and competitions like T Shirts painting contest, Nutri rangoli 2.0, Nutri Gehna, pulse recipe and photography contest, Vegan recipe contest, Millet ladoo competition, Christmas theme based recipe contest, Nestle Master chef competition within the college, fostering a spirit of innovation and healthy competition. Moreover, students showcased their academic prowess by participating in 10 external competitions and attending 12 workshops and seminars outside the college. The achievements of 40 students were recognized for their outstanding contributions across various disciplines.
Alumni Interaction and Contributions
The Department of Nutrition at St. Ann’s College strengthened its ties with alumni through several initiatives, including the institution of a Gold Medal for academic excellence and a series of motivational lectures titled “Udaan” delivered by distinguished alumni. These interactions not only inspired current students but also facilitated valuable networking opportunities and mentorship.
Faculty Development and Collaborations
Faculty members actively contributed to the academic community by participating as resource persons in 20 events and attending 7 Faculty Development Programs (FDPs) and workshops. The college also forged strategic partnerships through 7 Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with leading organizations, enhancing collaborative opportunities in research, education, and community outreach.
Nutrition Awareness and Additional Courses
The college promoted nutrition awareness through 45 programs aimed at educating the community on healthy eating habits and disease prevention strategies. The Department of Nutrition was acknowledged for the outstanding work in promoting Nutrition Education by Fatima Old age home. Additionally, St. Ann’s College expanded its academic offerings with the introduction of 3 new courses: Certificate in Health and Nutrition Informatics, Renal Nutrition, and Translational Nutrigenetics, catering to the evolving needs of students and professionals in the field.
Entrepreneurship and Other Initiatives
Innovative initiatives such as the Healthy Recipe Counter and ongoing Nutriprenuership activities demonstrated the college’s commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles and entrepreneurial spirit among students. Collaborative efforts with industry partners, including Nestle, further enriched practical learning experiences through activities such as Quantity Food Production sessions.
2022-23
– National Webinars and Guest Lectures: Organized two National webinars in collaboration with Nestle, focusing on eating disorders during World Eating Disorder Week and Newer Approaches in managing Type 2 diabetes. Conducted eight guest lectures on diverse nutrition topics, providing valuable insights to students.– Trainings and Workshops: Conducted a first aid and CPR workshop for UG Biological science students, enhancing health and safety awareness. Organised a pre-workshop on Research methods with hands-on training for students, improving their research skills.– Community Outreach: Actively participated in various community outreach programs targeting different audiences, benefiting over 1500 individuals. Programs included World Breastfeeding Awareness, Diabetes Screening Awareness Camps, National Nutrition Week Events, and Nutrition Awareness Programs.– Competitions: Organized various competitions and contests to promote nutritional awareness and creativity among students, fostering a competitive and innovative spirit.– Faculty Development and Exchange Programs: Conducted a faculty development program (FDP) for UG and PG faculty offering nutrition courses across colleges in Hyderabad. Facilitated faculty exchange programs with other institutions.– Student Achievements: A student from the R21 batch, Ms. Heena Kazmi, successfully completed the Study of the United States Institute for Student Leaders on Education and Future of Work, sponsored by the United States Government, highlighting the academic excellence of the department’s students.– Career Counselling: Organized multiple career counselling sessions to guide students in their future career paths.– Field Trips and Campus Connect: Provided students with firsthand experience through a field trip to KIMS Secunderabad, enhancing their practical knowledge. Students actively participated in extracurricular events, receiving prizes and presenting research papers.– Healthy Recipe Counter: Initiated a Healthy Recipe Counter, an ongoing activity driven by Nutripreneurs, promoting a healthy lifestyle.2021-22
– Training Program and Internship: Organized the Coordinated Clinical Nutrition Program (CCNP) in collaboration with the Department of Clinical Dietetics at Asian Institute of Gastroenterology. All 48 students of the MSc R19 batch successfully completed online internships, focusing on Nutrition Informatics and clinical internship at various hospitals.– Placements and Exchange Program: 28 out of 48 students from the MSc R19 batch secured placements. A student from the R21 batch was selected for the prestigious 2021 Study of the United State Institute for Student Leaders on Education and Future of Work.– Community Outreach and Competitions: Actively engaged in community outreach, conducting various awareness programs, including Diabetes awareness drives and nutrition programs. Organized competitions to foster creativity and healthy living.– International Webinar and Student Achievements: Conducted an international webinar on food security and the COVID-19 pandemic. Students actively participated in radio broadcasts and special programs.– Research and Start-ups: Both UG and PG students undertook research projects, with several papers published. Several students and alumni ventured into entrepreneurial activities, starting their own businesses in the field of nutrition.– Patent Filing: Noreen Akhtar, an MSc R19 student, along with faculty members, filed for a patent for her innovative Herbs Masala powder and Hot Puffs, developed as part of her MSc dissertation.2020-21
– National Webinars and Guest Lectures: Organized two impactful national webinars and a series of guest lectures on essential nutrition topics.– Outreach Activities: Engaged in community outreach programs during World Breastfeeding Awareness Week, including an e-collage competition and educational YouTube videos. Conducted various events and campaigns for National Nutrition Month, benefiting the community.– Faculty Contributions: Faculty members actively participated in various external events, enhancing the department’s outreach. Mrs. Jessie, Faculty, Dept of Nutrition participated in a UGC STRIDE Refresher Course by Mizoram University.– Online Internships: Successfully adapted to offer online internships, providing students with practical experience.– Faculty and Industry Collaborations: Facilitated collaborations with industry partners, including Nestle India Pvt Ltd. Faculty members participated in an entrepreneurship development program for aspiring entrepreneurs in the food processing sector.2019-20
– Introduction of Master’s Degree Program: Introduced a two-year Master’s Degree Program in Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics.– IGNOU Study Centre Recognition: Recognized as a Learner Study Centre of Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) in Hyderabad.– Participation in Unnat Bharat Abhiyan: Selected as a participating institution for a rural development and community engagement program.– Faculty Pursuing PhD: Two faculty members of the department were actively pursuing their PhDs, demonstrating the commitment to ongoing research and academic growth.– MOUs and Consultancy: Established collaborations with organizations like Nestle India Pvt Ltd and GMR Varalakshmi Foundation. Faculty provided consultancy to Waterlay pharmaceuticals foundation.– Academic Achievements: Outstanding academic results, active participation in academic events, and research excellence.– Awards and Recognitions:– Dr. Meena Patangay was honoured with an Honorary Doctorate D. Litt by the Dr. Radha Krishna Foundation for Education in November 2019, acknowledging her significant contributions to the field of nutrition education.– Dr. Meena Patangay Dean admin, HOD received the “Sadhana Award” from the jury of RND, recognizing her contributions to academic nutrition and dietetics.– Student Progression: Graduates continued their academic journey and secured employment in their field.– Internships: PG Diploma students completed internships at esteemed hospitals, gaining valuable practical experience.2018-19
– Exceptional Academic Results: Maintained a consistent record of academic excellence with high results for both UG and PGDip programs.– Nutrition Awareness Programs: Organized numerous nutrition education and awareness programs targeting diverse age groups.– Research Excellence: Both UG and PG students completed research projects, and faculty members published research papers.– Diet Counselling Cell: The department operated a fully functional diet counselling cell from 2006-07. This valuable service was extended to students, parents, staff of the institution, and the general public, offering expert guidance on nutrition and dietary concerns.– Academic Event and Guest Lectures: Organized a two-day seminar in collaboration with NSI and eight guest lectures.– Awards and Honors: Mrs. Meena Kumari, a dedicated faculty member, was recognized for her excellence in teaching and was awarded the State Best Teacher Award by the Telangana Government on 5th September 2018.– She was also honoured with a position on the Board of Studies (BoS) at RBVRR College and Anwar Uloom College, reflecting her influence in the academic community.– Student Progression: Graduates continued their academic journey and secured employment.– Internships: PG Diploma students completed internships at esteemed hospitals, gaining practical experience.