Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 4: St Aloysius College Higher Primary School hosted the Nu-Trifit (Nitte University Nutritional Fitness Programme) Season 4 on September 3 as part of the observance of National Nutrition Week (September 1–7). The programme was organized in collaboration with the Department of Public Health, Nitte Institute of Allied Health Sciences (NIAHS), Nitte (Deemed to be University), marking the second partnership between the school and the institute.
The event brought together nearly 430 students from classes 5, 6, and 7, along with the school's dedicated teachers and enthusiastic members of the parent-teacher association, filling the school hall with a lively spirit of learning and celebration.
This year’s programme was anchored to the national theme, “Eat right for a better life.” It was designed and executed by the Master of Public Health (MPH) scholars, batch of 2025, who took a highly creative approach. Instead of limiting the activities to lectures, they used interactive, engaging, and enjoyable methods that connected nutrition concepts to the everyday lives of the students.
The day unfolded with excitement from the very beginning. Students eagerly awaited the first major activity, a debate on healthy foods versus junk foods. Through pairs such as chips vs salted peanuts, dark chocolate vs milk chocolate, fizzy drinks vs coconut water, fruit bowls vs fruit shakes, and pastries vs eggs, the students passionately defended their sides. Initially, the fondness for junk food was clear, but as arguments progressed, the merits of healthy foods became more convincing. The debate was not only humorous and lively but also eye-opening, and by the end, many children who had been defending junk foods began to rethink their stance.
The next highlight was the group song competition, where each class section came forward with original compositions around nutrition, health, and hygiene. The students amazed everyone with their creativity, writing witty lyrics, composing catchy tunes, and performing with enthusiasm. It was inspiring to watch how well they internalized lessons of good nutrition and transformed them into art. Teachers and parents took pride in seeing students shine with such creativity and confidence.
A thought-provoking session followed, titled “Eat the Ad.” Here, students were shown how popular packaged foods often advertise health benefits that do not match reality. Everyday products like cereals, chocolates, and fruit juices were dissected to reveal their high content of palm oil, refined flour, and sugar. Students were surprised, even shocked, to realize how marketing often hides the truth. The session encouraged them to become critical thinkers and conscious consumers by reading labels and questioning what they buy.
The “Sugar Board” demonstration left a lasting impression. By visually displaying the actual teaspoons of sugar hidden in soft drinks, chocolates, and snacks, students could see with their own eyes the impact of these products. The sight brought gasps, whispers, and wide-eyed wonder, sparking meaningful conversations that extended even beyond the event.
To keep the atmosphere dynamic, students took part in interactive games and puzzles, from nutrition crosswords to emoji-based food guessing games, quick-response rounds like “Simon Says,” and general knowledge quizzes. The laughter, cheers, and competitive spirit filled the hall, making nutrition learning feel like play.
The seriousness of the day returned with a short awareness video on the ill-effects of fast foods, excess sugar, and sedentary lifestyles. It also offered practical lifestyle tips, reminding everyone that small, conscious choices can prevent future health problems. Watching the video together as a school community reinforced the importance of healthy living for both students and families.
In the closing session, all participants received fresh guavas, a symbolic and practical way of putting learning into practice. Alongside the fruit, MPH professors shared facts about the nutritional richness of guava, making the experience not just tasty but educational. Students enjoyed the fruit with an awareness that it was not just a snack, but a healthy, informed choice.
The programme concluded with the announcement of winners, as champion trophies were awarded to the best-performing sections from each standard. More than victory, the moment celebrated teamwork, creativity, and the joy of participation.
By the end of the day, the school community felt a sense of pride and purpose. The event was not just a commemoration of National Nutrition Week, but a transformative experience that combined science, creativity, and fun. Nu-Trifit Season 4 turned into a platform where our students learned, questioned, and celebrated the importance of nutrition in their daily lives.
The management has expressed gratitude that this initiative was conducted in its school once and hailed the efforts and enthusiasm of the students, teachers, and parents, which made the program a grand success. Through such collaborations with the public health department, the management hopes to continue shaping a healthier, more conscious generation of students at St Aloysius College Higher Primary School.