Mangalore Diocese News

Media Release

Mangaluru, Feb 19 : St. Agnes PU College initiated an outreach programme during the academic year 2023–'24 that focused on engaging students in community service. One of the goals of education is to train students to become good citizens of the country, and therefore, such initiatives are of critical importance. The programme served as a powerful tool aimed at creating awareness of social disparities, cultivating empathy, social responsibility, and personal growth among the students. It sensitises them about their duties and responsibilities and spurs them to become useful and productive members of the community, as it makes them aware of the problems and issues faced by marginalised sections that exist in our society.

Activities included visits to orphanages like Bala Griha, Maryhill; old-age homes, which included Cheshire Home, Kankanady; Mother Theresa’s Home, Attavara; and Hongirana, Bendoorwell. Some students visited St. Agnes Special School for children with special needs; White Doves, Psychiatric Nursing and Destitute Home; St. Antony’s Ashram, Jeppu; and Prashant Nivas, a home for the destitute, mentally challenged, and physically handicapped in Jeppu. During these visits, students spent time interacting with residents, listening to their stories, conducting recreational and cultural activities, and distributing essential supplies and groceries.

Students learned to appreciate their parents and the privileges they enjoy. This venture provided students with a wonderful opportunity for personal reflection and growth through meaningful interaction with the most marginalised sections of society. Students felt that the initiative has sparked positive changes in them, including increased empathy, a greater appreciation for their privileges, and a desire to contribute positively to society.

The college aims for a greater commitment to sustaining and expanding the programme in the years to come to further benefit both students and communities.