Adolescence is a period where one transitions from being a child to an adult. Boys become men. It is an important phase of life where physical, mental and even social changes occur. The outlook of life changes, and how these changes are dealt with decides what kind of men they become. Hence, adolescent health is a very important multi-faceted topic which should be dealt with head-on and addressed to all preteens.

The event held at East Point Indian School, Ajman in June 2022, did just that. Dr. Edwin D’Souza, Senior Pediatrician at Thumbay University Hospital and Community Medicine Department of College of Medicine, Gulf Medical University deliberated all the health concerns the students would face as they grow and become teenagers and young adults as part of community engagement activity. The students seemed very curious and wanted to know more. It gave the children an opportunity to explore these sensitive topics with experts and clarify any misconceptions.

“Any University should be socially accountable to its immediate community. Conducting such community engagement activities to benefit the community is among the core values of Gulf Medical University”, said Prof. Manda Venkatramana, Vice Chancellor Academics and Dean, College of Medicine, Gulf Medical University. Around 350 teenage school students participated in this awareness program and benefitted.