Fiji National University team with Colgate-Palmolive (Fiji) PTE LTD Country Manager, Adrian Romanin at the launch.

The Fiji National University (FNU) will be conducting community oral health screenings as part of the 2024 World Oral Health Day campaign in partnership with Fiji’s Ministry of Health and Medical Services, the Dental Association and Colgate Palmolive.

Fiji National University’s (FNU) College of Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences (CMNHS), Dr Vidhant Nambiar, said the partnership symbolises the collective commitment to improving the oral health of our communities and fostering a culture of good dental hygiene from a young age.

“Through collaborative efforts, we aim to empower individuals with knowledge and resources to take charge of their oral health,” Dr Nambiar said.

“We kickstart our event with an impactful launch at Dudley Intermediate School on March 18, where our focus will be on engaging the future generation – our students. We have organised an oratory contest and poster competition, providing a platform for students to showcase their creativity and knowledge about oral health. This initiative aims to instil a sense of responsibility towards oral hygiene at a young age.

Dr Vidhant Nambiar at the launch.

“Our Bachelor of Oral Health programme students will participate in Oral Health Education talks, sharing valuable insights and practical tips on maintaining good oral hygiene. This interaction between students and professionals will foster a learning environment and inspire our youth to prioritise their oral health.”

Colgate-Palmolive (Fiji) PTE LTD handed over Bright Smiles, Bright Futures (BSBF) kits to its partners.

The company’s Country Manager, Adrian Romanin, said the aim of the company is to reach children with essential oral care resources and knowledge, setting them on a path to a healthier future.

“We are proud to collaborate with the local organisations that share our vision and dedication to the well-being of the Fijian communities,” Romanin said.

“The handover event is just one of the many initiatives Colgate-Palmolive has planned for Oral Health Month. The Company is dedicated to raising awareness and providing resources to support oral health education throughout Fiji, not just in March but all year round.”

Fiji Dental Association Representative Dr Leenu Maimanuku emphasised that oral health is achievable and oral diseases are preventable.

“The theme for this WOHD is A Happy Mouth is A Happy Body. Our mouths can be made happy by brushing twice daily for two minutes, using a soft toothbrush, fluoridated toothpaste and spitting instead of rinsing after toothbrushing. It takes less than 5 minutes a day, every day,” she said.

“In the past, we have celebrated independently, but today we are proud that we have representatives from all the institutions and we will launch the awareness campaign together.”