Smile Train, the world’s largest cleft-focused NGO, joined hands with the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) to host a groundbreaking student awareness and fundraising activity. This pioneering initiative witnessed the active participation of nearly 2000 students at the USTM campus.
The campaign was graced by Shri Mahbubul Hoque, Chancellor USTM, Prof GD Sharma, Vice Chancellor USTM, Dr D.M. Momin, Senior Medical Officer cum District Nodal Officer, RBSK, Smt. M. Tomang (DEIC Manager, Ri Bhoi District), Mr Johnson, State Coordinator, National Health Mission; representatives from Smile Train, Woodland Hospital, and a large number of USTM students.
In India, it is estimated that more than 35,000 children are born with a cleft lip and/or palate every year. Untreated clefts cause hundreds of thousands of children to live in isolation and face challenges in eating, breathing, hearing, and speaking due to financial constraints for life-changing surgery and care. Speaking in this regard, Shri Mahbubul Hoque, Founder Chancellor, USTM, expressed, “The commitment to diversity and the welcoming atmosphere make it a place where everyone feels valued and respected. Smile Train is providing a great service to humanity, and I hope this campaign will create considerable awareness among the masses.”
