Organization: National Programme for Prevention and Control of Deafness (NPPCD), Kerala
Title: World Hearing Day Observation
Al title (for format and translation – not permanent:
World Hearing Day observation
Description:
The National Programme for Prevention and Control of Deafness (NPPCD), Kerala, observed World Hearing Day during 2024–25 and 2025–26 through a series of coordinated, statewide activities aimed at strengthening awareness, early detection, and rehabilitation related to hearing impairment.
A key focus during both years was capacity building and sensitization of frontline stakeholders. Structured awareness campaigns were conducted for healthcare workers including LHI/PHN, RBSK nurses, and ASHA workers, along with Anganwadi workers, ICDS functionaries, and school nodal teachers. These sessions emphasized the burden of hearing impairment, common causes especially among children, and the importance of early identification and timely intervention. Information on available treatment and rehabilitation services under NPPCD was also highlighted to ensure better referral and follow-up practices.
To support community-level awareness, brochures and IEC materials adapted from WHO guidelines were developed and widely distributed. These materials were designed to present simple, practical messages on ear and hearing care, helping field-level workers engage effectively with the public.
The state-level inauguration of World Hearing Day 2025 was held on 3rd March 2025 at KSIHFW, Thiruvananthapuram. The event was inaugurated by the Honorable Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Veena George. Senior officials including representatives from the Directorate of Health Services, public health leadership, and district administration participated, reflecting strong institutional commitment to the programme.
The campaign theme for 2025 focused on addressing societal misconceptions and stigma associated with hearing loss. Activities were designed to promote positive behavioural change through awareness generation and information sharing among both the public and healthcare providers.
At the district level, activities were implemented in an inclusive and participatory manner. Schools, colleges, healthcare institutions, and community platforms were actively involved. Major initiatives included awareness classes in educational institutions and workplaces, quiz and poster competitions for students, and creative engagement activities such as reels competitions and skits by MBBS students. Cultural programmes involving children undergoing speech therapy and special education added a human dimension to the campaign, reinforcing the importance of rehabilitation and social inclusion.
The following activities were also been conducted in districts as regards:
● Quiz competition for school children
● Awareness classes at schools, colleges and at factories
● Distribution of ear plugs for NIHL patients
● Flash mob for public awareness regarding ear and hearing care
● Poster competition for nursing students
● Hearing screening for ambulance drivers, radiology department s staffs
● REELS competition for school and college students & gift distribution
● Banners with hearing day messages to public, anganwadi, school, hospital etc.
● Writing competition for parents of children attending speech therapy
● SKIT relating with Ear and Hearing care by MBBS students
● Hearing screening camp for health care staff in Nodal centres and Extension centres
● Pamphlets distributed regarding services provided under NPPCD.
● Cultural programs by children attending speech therapy and special education.
An innovative addition was a 10-day theatre-based campaign featuring pre-produced awareness videos focusing on ear and hearing care. This approach helped extend the campaign reach to diverse population groups in an engaging format.
Overall, the World Hearing Day observances in Kerala during 2024–25 and 2025–26 demonstrated a comprehensive approach combining awareness, screening, capacity building, and community engagement. The initiatives contributed to improved understanding of hearing health, encouraged early care-seeking behaviour, and strengthened linkages between community and health systems under NPPCD.
Primary site: SEAR- India
Region: SEAR
General Photos
The Kolayakkoottam program at Kasaragod in Kerala, India
State Level Inaguration of World Hearing Day Programme 2025
Sensitization Training for ASHAs and Anganwadi Teachers
Awareness sessions conducted at kalamandalam, Palakkad Dist
Types of Engagement:
Live event: Yes
Screening: Yes
Traditional media: Yes
Social media: Yes
Special needs populations: persons with disabilities (including hearing loss), children and adolescents, older adults, rural or remote population
Met with individual policymaker: Yes
Participation of policy makers: Yes
Participation of influencers: Yes
WHO technical tool used: Yes
WHO educational and social media used: No