RONO HILLS, 16 Jun: Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) joined the global observance of World Blood Donor Day on Tuesday by organising an awareness programme aimed at promoting voluntary and unpaid blood donation.

The event was jointly organised by the Rajiv Gandhi University Employees Association (RGUEA), in collaboration with the university health centre, NCC, and NSS at the university campus here.

The programme sought to raise awareness among students, faculty members, and staff about the importance of voluntary blood donation in ensuring safe and adequate blood supply for patients in need. The occasion also served to recognise the selfless contributions of blood donors and highlight the continuing demand for regular voluntary donations.

Around 150 participants, including teaching and non-teaching employees, NCC and NSS volunteers, and students from the Government Secondary School, RGU campus, took part in the awareness drive.

In his address, RGU Vice-Chancellor (i/c) Prof SK Nayak reaffirmed the university’s commitment to public service and social responsibility. He appealed to students, faculty members, and staff to actively participate in voluntary blood donation initiatives to help save lives and strengthen community health.

Addressing the participants, RGU Registrar Dr NT Rikam urged people not only to donate blood but also to consider organ donation, stressing the vital role such contributions play in saving lives and supporting patients in critical need.

RGU Health Centre Chief Medical Officer Dr Akin Tana Tara delivered an informative presentation outlining key medical facts about blood donation, including donor eligibility, safety measures, and the benefits of regular voluntary donation.

Earlier, RGUEA general secretary Eswar Kr Sunar emphasised the life-saving significance of voluntary blood donation. He encouraged members of the university community to come forward and contribute to the humanitarian cause.