They are at home at SJC

It is every student’s dream to get into a reputed college so that he/she can study well to face the competitive world and the new challenges of life. The freshers at SJC have begun their journey with hope and determination.

It has been more than a week since College has started to function. The first year students are excited about the College atmosphere. They are happy to be part of SJC family and are looking forward to have a fruitful year ahead.

Vedha

Benita

When asked to share their views about the college Vedha Nair from I CBZ, said, "I really liked the campus. As I come from a valley based college, I am very fond of nature. I had heard that the Science faculty is really good. So I opted for this college."

Aaron Abhishek from I VISCOM, said, "I did my PUC in St Joseph's College, so I am quite familiar with the surroundings and working of the college. I chose this field as I am interested in photography and also in animation. I also like doing a bit of reporting. I find the atmosphere very friendly."

Benita D, from I BCA, said, "St Joseph's is a well reputed college in India. It stands first in South India. I wanted to join Joseph's because it has good faculty and also eco-friendly atmosphere. I am happy to get into Joseph's and be a part of this college."

- Priyanka A., II M S Com

SJC pledges support for victims of torture

The victims of torture often go unnoticed and are often unheard because of lack of awareness about the issue in society. In an attempt to bring about awareness about the issue in College, the Centre for Social Concern (CSC), National Service Scheme (NSS) and Christian Students Association (CSA) organised a mime and a documentary screening in campus on Friday, June 24.

Azar Khan, President of CSC, pointed out that the events were being organised in order to observe the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture. He said, "Many people do not know what torture actually is. Torture can be physical, emotional and even psychological in nature. It is our aim to put this across to students through mime and documentary."

He further added that a rally would be carried out from College to Town Hall on Saturday, demanding the ratification of the UN convention of torture by India and also urging the government to follow the D.K Basu guidelines on arrest, interrogation and detention.

Explaining the role of the NSS in conducting such programmes, J S Gladson, President of NSS, said, "It is very important to bring about awareness among youngsters. We have the power to make a difference and this is one such opportunity."

Students eagerly watched as performers showed different aspects of torture. Kiran Kumar Sen, from I CEZ, emphasised on the oppression women faced in the country. He said, "India is a male dominated society and women are victims of a lot of torture. This was aptly shown by the mime. The youth should take up responsibility against such crime."

- Jame Lobo, II M S Com

Winds of change in campus

The new academic year has brought in a multitude of changes in the campus. From the newly painted walls to the spic and span toilets, SJC is on a constant drive to improve infrastructure and facilities for students.

A dedicated staff under the management of John Christy, Maintenance Officer, are rectifying all electrical and plumbing problems in the campus. He said, "We are fixing new electrical points wherever necessary and are also fixing any plumbing problems in the College." He further added that all the toilets were being given an acid wash, after which they would be cleaned twice a day to maintain hygiene.

Speaking about the role of students in maintaining cleanliness, Mr Christy said, "Hardwork is being put into cleaning the College. Students should maintain cleanliness the same way they would at home."

Cultural events are an integral part of the curriculum. In order to encourage cultural activities the Xavier Hall is being given a complete revamp. The hall will boast of a new sound system, stage lightings and also better acoustics. James J, in-charge of renovation, and his team, have been working round the clock to finish the work. "The hall will be much better than before. The interiors are being re-done to control echo and also to give the hall a new look." He added that the work in the Xavier Hall was in over-drive as it has to be completed by the end of the month.

Students with growling stomachs after a long day of lectures can now expect clean and hygienic food in the canteen. Asha Caterers, a well known catering service in the city, have taken charge of improving the canteen and providing fresh and delectable food to students. Hungry PG students may not have to make the long walk to the canteen anymore, as the management is planning to have a food counter in the PG block too.

Students who have seen the changes and transformation in the College are impressed by the work done by the management. Nikhil Muthukrishnan from III IES, said, "I find a lot of changes being done all around the College. The cleanliness in the campus and especially in the toilets is truly commendable."

- James Lobo, II M S Com