Inaugural Nutrition and Dietetics Cohort Hosts Symposium to Promote Health and Professional Collaboration
The first cohort of Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics recently held a symposium whose aim was to among others raise awareness of the critical role dietitians play in improving health outcomes across various sectors and Promote collaboration and networking among dietitians, health professionals, and other stakeholders.
Held under the theme “Dietetics for a Healthier Nation: Introducing the Role of Dietetics in Hospitals, Food Service Management, Community, Research, and Academia.” the symposium also aimed to inspire people and professionals to advance the field of nutrition and dietetics innovation and research.
Speaking during the event, Clinical dietitian in the Ministry of Health Triza Columbus said dietetics is key to disease prevention.
“Dietetics is a branch of knowledge that is concerned with diet and its effects on health, especially with the practical application of a scientific understanding of nutrition. Through dietetics, we provide nutrition to the people,” she said.
Head of the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at KUHeS, Dr.w Charles Mangani urged students to serve service seekers with professionalism.
Mangani said Malawi has very few dietitians who are trained beyond Master’s degree level, highlighting the need for further investment in the field.
Student representative Lusekelo Munthali said they were ready to serve service seekers and help people in the country meet their dietary needs.
Activities included student research presentations, panel discussions, exhibitions, and stakeholder presentations. The event was graced by officials from Nyasa Big Bullets Football Club, Blantyre Water Board, BeitCure, among others.
