GENDER AWARENESS PROGRAMME ON GREEN CHEMISTRY & WOMEN’S HEALTH CAMPAIGN – SAFER CHEMICALS FOR SAFER LIVES”

The Research & Postgraduate Department of Chemistry organized an online awareness programme on 16th April 2026 on the theme “Green Chemistry & Women’s Health Campaign-Safer Chemicals for Safer Lives” for female students with the objective of promoting awareness about hazardous household chemicals, indoor pollution, toxic chemical exposure, and the importance of eco-friendly alternatives in daily life. The programme was conducted as part of the department’s gender sensitization and environmental awareness initiatives, connecting scientific concepts of chemistry with women’s health and sustainable living practices. The session was inaugurated by respected Principal Prof. (Dr) Jasmine PM. The session was coordinated under the leadership of Dr. Mohammed Musthafa TN, Head of the Department, with active participation and guidance from Dr. Ajay Ajith, Assistant Professor, Ms. Basira KT, Research Scholar and Ms. Nihala Nasarin, Research Scholar, Department of Chemistry The programme began with an introductory session emphasizing the importance of Green Chemistry in minimizing the harmful effects of chemicals on human health and the environment. The faculty members & research scholars explained that Green Chemistry focuses on the design and application of safer chemical products and processes that reduce the use and generation of hazardous substances. The discussion included the principles of Green Chemistry such as waste minimization, use of safer chemicals, energy efficiency, biodegradability, and pollution prevention. The session highlighted how scientific awareness and sustainable practices can contribute significantly to the health and safety of women and children, who are often more exposed to household chemicals and indoor pollutants. During the programme, detailed scientific explanations were given regarding the harmful effects of commonly used household chemicals such as detergents, bleaching agents, disinfectants, air fresheners, insecticides, cosmetics, and cleaning products. The faculty members explained that many of these products contain toxic substances including ammonia, chlorine compounds, phthalates, formaldehyde, and volatile organic compounds, which may cause respiratory disorders, skin allergies, eye irritation, hormonal imbalance, and other long-term health problems. Students were also made aware of the dangers associated with improper mixing of cleaning chemicals, especially bleach with acids or ammonia, which can produce toxic gases harmful to health. Special attention was given to the issue of indoor pollution and its impact on women and children. The session explained the sources of indoor air pollution including smoke from cooking fuels, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds, and toxic vapours released from household cleaning agents. The faculty members discussed how prolonged exposure to indoor pollutants can contribute to asthma, chronic respiratory diseases, cardiovascular disorders, headaches, and reduced immunity. Scientific concepts related to air quality, toxicology, and environmental chemistry were effectively connected with everyday household practices, helping students understand the relevance of chemistry in public health and safety. The programme also addressed the effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals and toxic substances present in plastics, cosmetics, pesticides, and personal care products. The faculty members explained that women and children are biologically more vulnerable to certain chemicals due to hormonal and developmental factors. Awareness was created regarding safer alternatives, proper handling of household products, and the importance of reading chemical labels and hazard symbols before use. An interactive discussion session was held at the end of the programme, during which students actively participated by asking questions related to chemical safety, cosmetic usage, waste disposal, biodegradable products, and sustainable household practices. The faculty members clarified the doubts of the participants and encouraged them to adopt environmentally responsible and health-conscious lifestyles. The programme was highly informative and beneficial for the participants. It successfully enhanced awareness among female students regarding the importance of Green Chemistry, the health impacts of toxic chemical exposure, and the need for eco-friendly alternatives in daily life. The programme effectively connected chemistry concepts with gender sensitization, environmental protection, and women’s health, thereby promoting scientific awareness and social responsibility among students. Under the guidance of Dr. Mohammed Musthafa TN, Head of the Department, and with the support of Dr. Ajay Ajith, Assistant Professor, Ms. Basira KT, Research Scholar and Ms. Nihala Nasarin, Research Scholar, Department of Chemistry the programme became a meaningful initiative that encouraged students to adopt safer and more sustainable practices for a healthier society.