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STAFF WRITERSRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST), in collaboration with Karna Vidya Foundation and under the guidance of the Directorate for Welfare of the Differently Abled, Government of Tamil Nadu, successfully organised %u201c%u00dc%u00bc%u2026%u00aa%u00ea%u00f2%u2122 2.0%u201d, a state-level skill competition for students with visual impairment. Held at the TP Ganesan Mini Hall I Auditorium, the event marked a special Children%u2019s Day initiative aimed at celebrating inclusivity, talent, and excellence.The competition brought together visually impaired students from across Tamil Nadu, following preliminary rounds conducted in schools and SSA-inclusive institutions across Chennai, Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu, and Krishnagiri. Participants showcased remarkable confidence, skill, and determination throughout the selection process.The event was graced by distinguished dignitaries, including Thiru. Kumar Jayant, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary and CMD%u2013TIIC; Dr. D. Kathirvelu, District Differently Abled Welfare Officer, Chengalpattu; Ms. S. Sangeetha, District Social Welfare Officer, Chengalpattu; and Mr. G. Mathiyazhagan, Managing Trustee, Good Service Trust.The programme commenced with a cultural performance by children from Karna Vidya Foundation, followed by an invocation, traditional lamp lighting, and a welcome address by Dr. P. Supraja. Dr. M. Leenus Jesu Martin, Dean (CET), SRMIST, delivered the felicitation address, highlighting the institution%u2019s continued commitment to inclusive education and social responsibility.In their addresses, the chief guests commended SRMIST for creating meaningful platforms that empower visually impaired students through skillbased competitions. They appreciated the university%u2019s infrastructure, supportive environment, and collaborative approach in fostering the growth and confidence of differently abled learners. They also expressed their willingness to continue partnerships with SRMIST for future initiatives promoting accessibility and inclusion, recognising %u201c%u00dc%u00bc%u2026%u00aa%u00ea%u00f2%u2122 2.0%u201das a model programme.The final round of the competition featured five categories: Reading Skills (Tamil & English), Writing Skills (Typing in Notepad), Poetry Writing (Tamil), Speaking Skills (Tamil & English), and Thirukkural Recitation. Participants were assessed based on accuracy, clarity, creativity, originality, and expression. Winners were honoured with gifts and cash prizes.The valedictory session was marked by an inspiring address from Thiru. Kumar Jayant, IAS, who emphasised the importance of educational institutions leading impactful initiatives that empower children with disabilities. He applauded the participants for their enthusiasm, courage, and determination to excel.Dr. V. Thirumurugan, Associate Director %u2013 Campus Administration, SRMIST, in his valedictory remarks, expressed pride in hosting the event and affirmed that %u201c%u00dc%u00bc%u2026%u00aa%u00ea%u00f2%u2122 2.0%u201d would continue as an annual initiative.The programme concluded with a prize distribution ceremony honouring 144 school-level winners, followed by student feedback, cultural performances, a vote of thanks by Dr. Subalalitha, and the National Anthem.The successful execution of the event was supported by over 80 volunteers from Karna Vidya Foundation, Cognizant, and other partner organisations. The organisers reiterated their commitment to fostering inclusive platforms that celebrate the strength, creativity, and potential of visually impaired students, reinforcing SRMIST%u2019s vision of value-driven and inclusive education.SRMIST Hosts State-Level Skill Competition for Visually Impaired StudentsSTAFF WRITERThe SRM College of Pharmacy, SRMIST, in association with the Red Ribbon Club (RRC) and the Tamil Nadu State AIDS Control Society (TANSACS), successfully organized a Student-Driven HIV/AIDS Awareness Initiative for the Community on 18th December 2025, at Mini Hall-II, Dr. T. P. Ganesan Auditorium, under the guidance of Dr. V. Chitra, Dean, SRM College of Pharmacy.The awareness session was conducted by Mrs. Uma Maheswari, Mrs. Nirmala (ICTC Counselors), and Mr. G. Murugan (NGO), who highlighted the causes of HIV/AIDS, preventive measures, and the role of healthcare professionals in community education. The event was efficiently coordinated by the Outreach Activities Team comprising Dr. Jagadeesan M, Dr. S. Sarumathy, Dr. K. Gowri, Dr. B. Shanthakumar, and Dr. K. Gayathri. The program witnessed active participation from 160 students of B.Pharm III Year, B.Pharm Final Year, and Pharm.D IV Year, along with faculty members.HIV/AIDS Awareness initiative for the community driven by students20 2026 | Spectrum | Volume 19 Number 2