Media Release
Puttur July 30: In a commendable effort to promote education and understanding of tribal culture, the Post Graduate Department of Social Work at St Philomena College, Puttur, inaugurated an educational tribal camp at DEED Center, Hunsur, Mysore on July 26.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by Dr S Srikanth, director of DEED, who symbolically lit a solar lamp, watered plants, and offered flowers to honour the visionary social workers of our society. In his address to the students, Dr Srikanth highlighted the importance of understanding and experiencing tribal culture, drawing parallels to Mahatma Gandhi's involvement in social work and his love for humanity. He also shed light on the struggles faced by tribal communities in asserting their rights and the prevailing violence against women and related issues.
Prakash, a dedicated social worker associated with DEED, also spoke at the event, vividly describing the challenges faced by tribal communities, such as the deprivation of forest rights and inadequate government facilities.
The camp officers, Pratibha K and Sheetal Kumar, introduced the purpose of the educational camp and extended their best wishes to all the participants. Student leaders, Muhammad Ashif and Kumari Pavitra N, then elaborated on the comprehensive plans for the educational camp.
The inaugural programme witnessed the presence of tribal leaders such as PK Ramu, Jayappa, Girija, Vithal, and Bommi, who explained the arrangements made to ensure the smooth functioning of the educational camp.
Hostel students and First-year MSW campers from St Philomena College, Puttur actively participated in the event, making it a truly collaborative effort.
The ceremony was compered by Vaishnavi. Pavitra N extended a warm welcome to all the attendees. The vote of thanks was proposed by Disha, expressing gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the educational tribal camp.
The educational tribal camp initiated under the guidance of the Principal of the College Rev. Dr Antony Prakash Monteiro marks a crucial step in fostering cultural understanding and empowering the tribal community through education. With such initiatives, StPhilomena College continues to play a vital role in promoting social work and making a positive impact on society.