Khasi Women Drive COVID-19 Prevention Programs

UPDATE to the report below: The Seng Kynthei – Seng Kynphamlang, Ri Bhoi Circle, under the leadership of Mrs. Bahunshisha Mukhim, had planned for two COVID-19 Awareness Programmes on November 23 and December 11, 2021, including information on menstrual hygiene management. The two events, scheduled to take place in Nongthymmai Kyrdem and in Umtyrnga (Ri Bhoi District), had to be postponed due to COVID restrictions. Nonetheless, COVID-19 booklets, hand sanitizers, as well as sanitary pads for young girls will be distributed.



Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic throws a challenge to human sustenance. The Seng Kynthei, Unitarian Union North of East India (UUNEI) – having taken up various social projects for uplifting Khasi society – considers the need of the hour to extend support and reach out to the less privileged in the form of relief efforts and awareness programmes, especially in the rural areas. That is why the Seng Kynthei UUNEI explored the possibility of seeking financial support to launch initiatives to help in the fight against COVID-19. With the unfailing guidance and support from the International Women’s Convocation (IWC), the required amount of funding was raised for the programme; we know all the Big Hearts (project donors) played a part.

 

As reported earlier, on January 8, 2021, the Seng Kynthei conducted the first programme titled “Training Programme-cum-Awareness Programme for Prevention of Spread of COVID-19 in the Community” for the Seng Kynthei leaders at the state (Union) and at the district (Circle) levels at the Multipurpose Hall at Nongkhyriem, Nongthymmai.

 

Subsequently, Seng Kynthei formed District Task Forces and members planned to hold the awareness programme in their districts. However, due to the grim COVID-19 situation the partial lockdown was converted to a total lockdown, and the programme could not be realised at that time. The Seng Kynthei was forced to put the “Awareness Programme on Prevention of Spread of COVID-19 in the Community at the District (Circle) Level” on hold.


Online Covid Program India
However, it is heartening to report that Seng Kynthei, in collaboration with the Health Department, conducted the Awareness Programme online on August 28, 2021. The programme was very successful, in no small part thanks to the help and support extended by the resource persons Dr. Adreena Lyngdoh, Additional District Medical and Health Officer and Dr. Shiboleth Khonglah, District Immunisation Officer, both from East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya.

 

dr rica lamar addressing the audience
Dr. Rica Lamar addressing the audience
Major Elgiva Shullai moderated the sessions very effectively. Dr. Rica Lamar, keynote speaker, reiterated the need for community participation, understanding, and behavioural change to prevent the spread of the coronavirus in the community. She highlighted the role of the Seng Kynthei UUNEI, stressing that Seng Kynthei, through its members, has done its share during the crisis. It is worth mentioning that Mrs. Bahunshisha Mukhim, an active member of the Seng Kynthei, is one of the members of the District Task Force on COVID-19 for the Government of Meghalaya. She has been in constant touch with many women who have been very brave: who dared to come out to help others besides looking after their own families.


Online Covid Program India Slide
The online programme was very informative, meaningful, and fruitful. It has helped clear the doubts of many. The programme was also well attended. The recorded version was released on Sunday, August 29, just before the Special Anniversary Service of the Seng Kynthei UUNEI.

 

The Seng Kynthei Unitarian Union of North East India expresses its appreciation and sincere gratitude to the resource persons for dedicating their valuable time to this programme and for sharing their expertise.

 

Last but not the least, the Seng Kynthei would not be in a position to organise the COVID-19 awareness programme if not for the continued support and guidance from the IWC. Zsofia Sztranyiczki, Executive Director of IWC, has been extending support and guidance at every step, from fine-tuning the Faithify proposal to coordinating and supervising the fundraising effort.

 

On behalf of the Seng Kynthei Unitarian Union North of East India, I acknowledge with thanks the advice, guidance, and support of Zsofia and the love and concern of all members of the board of IWC. They have added strength to the Seng Kynthei UUNEI. I also place on record the support extended by the Big Hearts who have selflessly enhanced the efforts of the Seng Kynthei UUNEI to bring change in the lives of women and children.

           

May God bless you and your good work.

 

Dr. Creamlimon Nongbri, Secretary

Seng Kynthei Unitarian Union, North East India