The “Brushes against Superbugs” event, inaugurating the APSI project at St. Ann’s College, Hyderabad, marked a step forward in raising awareness on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). Spanning two action-filled days, on April 24th and 25th, 2023, the event was a confluence of art, education, interaction, and awareness, reaching out to over 150 attendees.
Day one of the “Brushes against Superbugs” event at St. Ann’s College, Hyderabad, began with an enlightening talk by Dr. Sisinthy Shivaji. He addressed the topics such as AMR surveillance, the historical timeline of AMR development, and the intriguing aspect of AMR in the context of eye infections, further emphasizing the multifaceted nature of this pressing issue.
Following the talk, the centerpiece of the event commenced: the collaborative painting of an 8X8 feet mural. First-year life sciences students from St. Ann’s College worked alongside the artist Dibyush Jena from Odisha, guided by a sketch they had designed three days before the event. The mural painting served as a creative expression of the complex interplay between antibiotics, superbugs, and public health.
Alongside the mural painting, day one also saw students engage in interactions with the SaS team and begin crafting a play titled “The Invisible War.” This part of the program provided an opportunity for participants to clear misconceptions and understand the real-world implications of AMR.
On day two, the students continued to work on the mural and finalized their play. The performance of “The Invisible War” set the stage for the unveiling of the mural. Both the play and the mural were a testament to the power of participatory arts in simplifying complex public health issues like AMR.
The event concluded with the “Bug Busters” quiz, conducted in a jeopardy style, showcasing the students’ knowledge while fostering a collaborative learning environment.
The AMR mural has taken on a life of its own as a symbol for AMR awareness. It is now traveling across the city to various hotspots, including public spaces, educational institutes, and hospitals. Serving as a visually arresting backdrop, the mural not only sparks dialogue but also sets the stage for conducting additional events. Its presence in prominent locations is transforming it into a powerful tool for awareness, allowing more people to engage with this crucial issue and inspiring ongoing conversations about AMR.