World Patient Safety Day 2026 Observed at The Apollo University with Focus on Safe Care for Noncommunicable Diseases
The Apollo University, Chittoor, observed World Patient Safety Day 2026 with an awareness and academic programme on the theme “Safe Care for Noncommunicable Diseases.” The programme was organised by the School of Management, The Apollo University, in association with the Apollo Institute of Medical Sciences & Research (AIMSR) and Apollo College of Nursing, at the Dr. Prathap C. Reddy Knowledge Centre Auditorium. The programme commenced with the welcoming of the dignitaries, followed by an introduction to the significance of World Patient Safety Day and its relevance to the theme of safe care for noncommunicable diseases. Dr. Ramaiah Itumalla, Dean, School of Management and Coordinator of the programme, provided an overview of the programme and highlighted the importance of creating greater awareness of patient safety among students and future healthcare professionals.
The event was held under the patronage of Prof. (Dr.) Nitin M. Nagarkar, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, The Apollo University, who addressed the gathering as the Chief Patron. In his address, the Vice Chancellor emphasised that patient safety must remain a fundamental priority in healthcare. He highlighted the serious consequences that can arise from even minor lapses in healthcare delivery and stressed the importance of vigilance, adherence to established procedures, professional responsibility and effective teamwork. He also encouraged students to carry these principles into their future professional practice and contribute to a culture of safe and responsible healthcare.
Prof. (Dr.) H. Vinod Bhat, Professor Emeritus, Member, Board of Management, The Apollo University and Strategic Advisor, Apollo Knowledge, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour. In his address, he emphasised that patient safety is integral to improving the quality of healthcare services. He highlighted the importance of placing patients at the centre of care and implementing appropriate safety practices in healthcare institutions. He also stressed the value of incorporating patient safety education into professional training to prepare students to become competent, responsible and patient-centred healthcare professionals.
The programme was further enriched by an invited lecture on Patient Safety delivered by Prof. Ravi P. Mahajan, Director, Critical Care Transformation, Apollo Hospitals Group, India. His session focused on the importance of maintaining patient safety throughout healthcare delivery, particularly in the management of patients requiring long-term care for noncommunicable diseases. He emphasised that healthcare professionals must remain vigilant and systematic in their approach, as errors and lapses can have serious consequences for patients. He highlighted the importance of standardised procedures, clinical checklists and coordinated teamwork in reducing errors and strengthening the quality and safety of clinical practice.
The expert session also provided students with an opportunity to understand patient safety from a practical perspective. The interaction emphasised that safe healthcare is a collective responsibility requiring effective communication, adherence to protocols, teamwork and continuous attention to patient needs. The lecture was particularly relevant to students from medical, nursing and management backgrounds, demonstrating how clinical and organisational systems work together to support safe and effective patient care. As part of the World Patient Safety Day observance, a poster presentation activity was conducted to encourage students to explore and communicate important aspects of patient safety through creative and academic presentations. The programme also featured an interactive Question-and-Answer session, during which students and participants had the opportunity to engage with Prof. Ravi P. Mahajan and seek further insights into patient safety and its practical application in healthcare settings. The interaction encouraged students to connect the concepts discussed during the lecture with real-world healthcare situations.
The occasion was graced by several senior university and Apollo leadership members, including Dr. Alfred J. Augustine, Pro Vice Chancellor (Academics); Dr. Ramya Ramakrishnan, Dean, AIMSR; S. Balraj, Unit Head, Apollo Knowledge City; Dr. T. Jayanthi, Principal, Apollo College of Nursing; Prof. K. Bhaskar Reddy, Dean, School of Health Sciences; and Dr. Jagadeesan, Dean, School of Technology, among others. A large number of students from medical, nursing and management disciplines, along with faculty members and healthcare professionals, actively participated in the programme.