Students should strive for academic excellence and social responsibility: Yashpal Suvarna

Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi

Udupi, Sep 29: The student council of Dr G. Shankar Government Women’s First Grade College and Postgraduate Study Centre, Ajjarkadu, was inaugurated on Tuesday.

As part of a programme that also featured the college’s Talents Day celebrations and the release of its annual magazine, Kalasha.

Speaking after inaugurating the programme, college patron Dr G. Shankar said the institution, which was established with the dream of providing quality education to women nearly 25 years ago, had now grown to serve students from 16 districts.

He said steps would be taken to construct a well-equipped auditorium for the college. He also announced that ?25 lakh would be earmarked for meeting students’ requirements and developing infrastructure.

For quality education, not only students but also teachers should work with discipline and responsibility, he said, adding that teachers should serve as role models for students. Students should grow into responsible and cultured citizens who contribute to the well-being of their parents and society, he said.

*Education facilitates social change*

Udupi MLA and College Development Committee president Yashpal A. Suvarna said elected representatives would extend all necessary support to the institution. He urged students to bring recognition to the college through good academic performance and said the institution should strive for university ranks.

He said the college was among the government colleges in the district with a large number of women students and assured support for their educational advancement. He also said he would discuss the institution’s requirements with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and seek necessary support for education.

“Education is not merely the acquisition of textbook knowledge. It is a means of building individuals and bringing about social change,” Mr. Suvarna said.

*Students urged to dream big*

Udupi District POSH Committee chairperson Vidya Bhat urged students to dream big and never stop learning. She asked them to overcome feelings of inferiority, develop a positive outlook and work hard to achieve their goals.

Students should also develop the ability to adapt to changing times, she said. Legal awareness and economic independence were essential for women’s empowerment, and students should be aware of their rights and laws while striving for financial independence, she added.

Presiding over the programme, college principal Prof. Nikethana said students should grow into resource persons for society and use the opportunities available to them constructively to contribute to society.

*Give back to the institution*

Lions Club First Vice District Governor Hariprasad Rai said students should pursue education, become professionals and entrepreneurs, and eventually return to their alma mater and contribute to its development.

*Student council oath and magazine release*

The newly elected office-bearers of the student council for the current academic year took the oath. Electoral Literacy Committee coordinator Manjunatha administered the oath.

The college’s annual magazine, Kalasha, edited by librarian Venkatesh, was also released. The magazine provides a platform for students to showcase their literary interests.

*Felicitation and Talents Day*

Retired Head of the Department of Commerce Prof. Krishna Bhat was felicitated by Dr G. Shankar and MLA Yashpal A. Suvarna. Dr G. Shankar and Mr. Suvarna were also felicitated on behalf of the college.

Students showcased their talents through songs, dances and other cultural programmes. Vishwaroopa Madhyastha, Kusuma Kamath and Sharath Kumar served as judges.

Student Welfare Officer Prof. Rajendra K. welcomed the gathering. IQAC coordinator Prof. Srimathi Adiga and Assistant Professor Kavitha introduced the guests. Cultural Committee coordinator Asha proposed the vote of thanks. Assistant Professor Sharath Kumar compered the programme.