Media Release

Mangaluru, Aug 16: As part of Sambrama Shanivara, Nehru Chinthana Kendra, Mangalore University, organised a series of four special lectures on August 16 at the adopted schools of the University to create awareness among children about the misuse of mobiles and its impact on childhood, education, and human values.

Prof Mohan Singhe, Department of Social Work, Mangalore University, spoke at Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Government High School, Konaje. He made the session highly interactive and discussed how the growing habit of watching web series and overusing mobiles disturbs students’ studies, sleep, and mental health. He urged the children to use technology wisely and not let it become a barrier to their personal and career growth.

At Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Higher Primary School, Konaje, Dr Nayana Krishnapura, research assistant, Nehru Chinthana Kendra, narrated stories of children who suffered due to mobile addiction. She explained how dependency on mobiles makes children miss out on outdoor play, imagination, and creativity, and encouraged the students to discover happiness in reading, playing, and creative activities.

Dr Sabitha, Department of Sociology, Mangalore University, spoke at Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Higher Primary School, Urumane, Manjanady. She explained how excessive mobile use can make children dull and demotivated. To inspire them, she conducted activities like group discussions and creative exercises, helping the children realise that there are many joyful and meaningful activities beyond mobiles and the internet.

At Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Government Higher Primary School, Deralakatte, Zubair interacted with the students in a thought-provoking way. He began by asking, “How have we become puppets in the hands of mobiles?” and went on to explain how human relationships and values are weakening because of excessive screen time. He reminded the children that families often sit together without talking, each busy with a device, and urged them to give importance to conversation, bonding, and real friendships.

The sessions left a strong impression on the children and concluded with a pledge to reduce mobile usage and spend more time in activities that build knowledge, relationships, and happiness.