Oath-Taking Ceremony of College Union Members and Kerala Piravi Day Celebration at Baselios Marthoma Mathews II Training College, Kottarakkara

On a vibrant and culturally rich day, Baselios Marthoma Mathews II Training College, Kottarakkara, hosted a memorable event that brought together the spirit of leadership and cultural pride. The occasion marked the Oath-Taking Ceremony of the College Union members and the celebration of Kerala Piravi Day, along with a spectacular Malayali Manka Competition, which added to the festive atmosphere of the day.

Oath-Taking Ceremony of College Union Members

The day began with great enthusiasm as the newly elected members of the College Union stepped forward for the Oath-Taking Ceremony. Held in the college auditorium, the ceremony was attended by students, faculty, and staff members who witnessed this important event. It was a moment of pride, where the student leaders took their solemn oaths to serve their peers with responsibility, dedication, and integrity.

The Principal of the college Riju Sir , along with other faculty members, administered the oath. The newly elected Union members pledged to represent the student body, uphold the values of the institution, and work tirelessly towards the welfare and betterment of the college community. Their commitment to fostering a supportive and progressive environment within the college was evident, as they expressed their excitement to take on the responsibilities entrusted to them.This ceremony not only marked the beginning of their leadership journey but also set a tone of camaraderie and collaboration among students and teachers alike. The event reminded everyone of the importance of student leadership in shaping the culture and activities of the college.

Kerala Piravi Day – Celebrating Kerala's Heritage

Following the Oath-Taking Ceremony, the college moved into the celebration of Kerala Piravi Day, commemorating the formation of the state of Kerala on November 1st, 1956. The celebration was a tribute to the cultural heritage, traditions, and pride of the state. Students and faculty members dressed in traditional Kerala attire, showcasing the state's unique customs and history.

The entire college was adorned with posters and decorations celebrating Kerala’s natural beauty, rich history, and diverse culture. From the backwaters to the mountainous regions, the celebrations were a visual and emotional journey through Kerala’s majestic landscape. The festivities were designed not just to mark the historical significance of the day but also to instill a deeper sense of pride in the cultural legacy of Kerala.

Malayali Manka Competition – A Cultural Showcase

One of the major highlights of the Kerala Piravi Day celebration was the much-awaited Malayali Manka competition. This event brought out the grace, beauty, and cultural pride of the female students, as they donned the traditional Kerala saree or mundu attire, symbolizing Kerala's elegance and timeless beauty.

The participants walked with confidence and grace, showcasing their poise, cultural knowledge, and love for Kerala. The competition wasn’t just about beauty but was also an opportunity for the participants to express their connection with the culture and heritage of Kerala. Contestants were judged on several criteria including their presentation, confidence, and how well they represented the cultural essence of Kerala.

Each contestant shared insights about the history of Kerala or their personal connections to the state's traditions, making the competition a truly enriching experience. Their heartfelt speeches and graceful presentations left the audience in awe of the deep-rooted cultural pride that the students had for their home state.

Reflections on the Event

The combination of the Oath-Taking Ceremony and Kerala Piravi Day celebrations created an atmosphere that blended leadership with cultural pride. The day was a perfect blend of responsibility and tradition, where the newly elected Union members took their pledge to lead their peers while the college came together to celebrate the shared heritage of Kerala.

The Malayali Manka Competition added an extra layer of vibrancy to the celebrations, as it showcased the beauty, strength, and resilience of Kerala’s women. It was a day that not only celebrated Kerala’s formation as a state but also reflected the unity and pride of its people.

Conclusion

The Oath-Taking Ceremony at Baselios Marthoma Mathews II Training College, Kottarakkara, was more than just the beginning of a new leadership journey. It was an opportunity to connect with the values of responsibility, collaboration, and service to the community. The Kerala Piravi Day celebration, coupled with the Malayali Manka Competition, reminded everyone of the deep cultural ties that bind the students and staff together, fostering a sense of pride and unity.

As the event came to a close, it left everyone with a sense of accomplishment, not only for the Union members but also for the entire college community, who celebrated their shared heritage and commitment to the future with pride and enthusiasm. It was a day of reflection, celebration, and unity—an embodiment of the spirit of leadership

 and Kerala’s rich cultural legacy.

 School Induction Day 5 at St. Goretti HSS, Punalur

The 5th day of the School Induction Program at St. Goretti Higher Secondary School, Punalur,observed two mathematics classes which provided a unique opportunity and also we got a chance to interview with students 

These sessions required flexibility and adaptability as we stepped into unfamiliar classrooms. I, along with my colleagues, ensured that the time was utilized effectively by incorporating interactive discussions and activities. Depending on the students' grade levels, we introduced topics that were both engaging and educational, fostering a positive learning environment.

The day concluded with a reflective session where we shared our experiences, challenges, and the lessons learned. It was a productive day that enriched our understanding of handling dynamic classroom situations while maintaining a positive connection with students.

Class observations 

On Day 5 of the School Induction Program, my colleagues and I observed two Mathematics classes, one conducted by Roshi B. Raju for Grade 9 F and the other by Femina Joseph for Grade     9 E.

Class 9 F with Roshi B. Raju

Roshi B. Raju’s class was highly structured and engaging. She began the lesson with a clear explanation of the topic, ensuring that the learning objectives were outlined. Her approach to introducing concepts was methodical, using both verbal explanations and visual aids to help students understand complex mathematical problems.

The teacher's use of questioning techniques encouraged student participation, allowing students to voice their thoughts and engage in discussions. Roshi maintained excellent classroom discipline, ensuring that students stayed focused while also creating a comfortable environment where students felt confident asking questions.

The pacing of the lesson was just right, as she balanced theory and practical exercises, giving students ample time to absorb the information and practice. We noticed that she encouraged peer learning, with students helping each other understand the concepts, which further enhanced the collaborative atmosphere in the classroom.

Class 9 E with Femina Joseph

Femina Joseph’s class followed a similar structure but with a slightly more dynamic approach. She used real-world examples to make the subject matter more relatable, helping students connect the mathematical concepts with their daily lives. Femina’s teaching was interactive, and she frequently paused to ask the students questions, encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

She used various teaching aids, including a black board and handwritten notes, making the lesson visually stimulating and easy to follow. Femina was particularly good at managing the class’s energy, maintaining a good balance between keeping the students engaged and ensuring they stayed focused on the task at hand.

The students in both sections seemed comfortable with the teaching styles and participated actively. Femina also used formative assessments, like asking students to solve problems on the board, allowing her to gauge their understanding in real-time and give immediate feedback.

Reflection with Colleagues

After the observations, my colleagues and I discussed our observations and reflections. We noted that both teachers exhibited strong classroom management skills and effective teaching strategies. We admired their ability to make complex topics accessible and engage students actively. The use of real-life examples, interactive methods, and peer discussions were aspects we found particularly valuable and hoped to incorporate into our future lessons.

Overall, the experience was a great learning opportunity, offering insights into how experienced teachers conduct their classes and manage diverse classroom dynamics.

Interview with students 

Conducting interviews with the students gave us valuable insights into their academic lives and helped us understand their preferences, challenges, and ideas for improving the learning environment. Their feedback will be useful in adapting teaching methods to better support their learning needs and foster a more engaging and productive classroom environment.

 School Induction Day 3 at St. Goretti HSS, Punalur

On the third day of the induction program at St. Goretti HSS, Punalur, I, along with my colleagues Ansha and Fejina, took substitution classes for Grade 9 students in sections 9 F and 9 E and interviewed some students.

We began the day with a well-coordinated lesson plan tailored to suit the interests and learning levels of the students. The topics were divided among us to ensure a smooth flow of the session. Ansha introduced the topic with a thought-provoking question to engage the class. I handled the core content, incorporating relatable examples and visuals, while Fejina concluded the session with an interactive activity to reinforce the key concepts.

The students in both sections displayed keen interest, participating actively in discussions and activities. Their enthusiasm and insightful responses made the sessions lively and rewarding. The collaborative teaching approach allowed us to combine our strengths and create a dynamic learning environment.

Teaching in two different sections also gave us an opportunity to adapt our strategies based on the classroom dynamics. This experience enhanced our confidence and understanding of managing diverse groups.

The day was both challenging and fulfilling, marking another step forward in our journey as educators. It reinforced the importance of teamwork and adaptability in creating meaningful learning experiences.

School Induction Day 2 at St. Goretti HSS, Punalur

The second day of the induction program at St. Goretti Higher Secondary School, Punalur, was a collaborative and enriching experience as I, along with Ansha and Fejina, conducted a shared class for Grade 8 A.

We planned the session together, dividing the topics to ensure a seamless flow and equal participation from each of us. Our teamwork allowed us to bring different teaching approaches and ideas into the classroom. I  began the lesson with an interactive introduction to the topic, followed by individual segments handled by each of us.

Ansha focused on delivering the theoretical aspects, while Fejina facilitated an engaging activity that encouraged students to apply their understanding. I concluded the session by summarizing key points and conducting a quick question-and-answer round to assess their learning.

The students responded enthusiastically to the collaborative approach, actively participating in discussions and activities. The shared teaching experience not only enhanced the effectiveness of the lesson but also helped us learn from each other’s teaching styles.

This joint effort reinforced the importance of teamwork in creating a dynamic and engaging learning environment. It was a productive day that strengthened our teaching strategies and deepened our connection with the students.

The Spirit of Togetherness: serving Meals to students 

The act of serving food to the students was a reflection of the school's deep commitment to ensuring that each student feels cared for and valued. It wasn’t just about feeding the body, but also nourishing the spirit of unity and togetherness that is so important in the early days of school. The staff, teachers, and even senior students played a role in serving the food, further strengthening the sense of community within the school.On day two me and my colleagues become a part of it by serving the food to students.

School Induction Day 1

The first day of the School Induction Program at St. Goretti Higher Secondary School, Punalur, was a remarkable experience dedicated to understanding the school and its surroundings.

We began by familiarizing ourselves with the school's history, infrastructure, and mission. The faculty provided valuable insights into the school’s culture, emphasizing its focus on academic excellence, discipline, and co-curricular activities.

A tour of the campus revealed a well-maintained environment, including spacious classrooms, a library, a science lab, and playgrounds, reflecting the institution's commitment to holistic education. Interaction with students and staff offered us a glimpse into the vibrant school community.

Exploring the surrounding area helped us understand the socio-cultural and geographical context in which the school operates. This understanding is crucial for connecting classroom activities with students' real-world experiences.

The day concluded with a reflective session, encouraging us to link our observations to the broader objectives of teaching and learning.

This initial interaction set a solid foundation for the upcoming days of the program.

 Micro-Teaching Workshop: Enhancing Teaching Excellence

Teaching is both an art and a science, requiring a delicate balance of knowledge, skill, and passion. To hone these skills and prepare educators for the dynamic classroom environment, a Micro-Teaching Workshop was recently conducted. This immersive session offered an excellent platform for participants to refine their teaching strategies and methodologies.

Objective of the Workshop

The primary goal of the workshop was to help teachers and educators:

1. Understand the nuances of effective teaching.

2. Master specific teaching skills such as lesson planning, communication, questioning, and classroom management.

3. Develop confidence through peer feedback and self-reflection.

What is Micro-Teaching?

Micro-teaching is a scaled-down teaching encounter designed for training purposes. In this setting, participants deliver short lessons to a small group of peers, followed by constructive feedback. This method emphasizes focused skill development in a controlled environment, fostering continuous improvement.

Workshop Highlights

1. Introduction to Micro-Teaching

The session began with an interactive discussion on the principles of micro-teaching. The facilitators highlighted its role in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

2. Skill Development Sessions

Participants explored various core teaching skills:

Set Induction: Engaging students at the beginning of a lesson.

Explaining Skills: Presenting concepts clearly and concisely.

Reinforcement: Encouraging participation through positive reinforcement.

Closure: Summarizing and connecting the lesson to real-life applications.

3. Practice and Feedback

Each participant delivered a 5-10 minute lesson, demonstrating one specific teaching skill. The sessions were followed by peer feedback and suggestions for improvement. Facilitators emphasized positive reinforcement, creating an environment of mutual respect and growth.

Reflection 

Enhanced Teaching Skills: Teachers left the workshop with improved techniques and strategies for engaging students.

Increased Confidence: The practice sessions helped participants feel more confident in their ability to manage classrooms effectively.

Collaborative Learning: Peer feedback fostered a sense of camaraderie and collective growth among participants.

Importance of Self-Reflection: Reviewing one’s teaching style through video analysis proved invaluable for personal and professional development.

The Micro-Teaching Workshop was a resounding success, providing participants with a deeper understanding of the teaching process. By focusing on specific skills and encouraging constructive feedback, the workshop empowered educators to become more effective and reflective practitioners.

Such initiatives remind us that teaching is an evolving journey, and every step toward self-improvement ultimately benefits the learners.

 Exploring Creativity Through Workshop-Based Activities

In today's fast-paced world, it's refreshing to pause and reconnect with creativity. Engaging in art not only enhances our skills but also gives us a sense of accomplishment, reduces stress, and opens up a world of possibilities. Recently, we hosted a workshop that took participants on a journey through various forms of art: drawing, bottle art, glass painting, and paper art. Each class offered a unique experience, encouraging participants to express themselves and learn new techniques. Here’s a glimpse into each of these creative sessions.

Drawing Class: Exploring Lines and Shades

Drawing is the foundation of visual art, and our class started with a focus on the essentials. Participants were introduced to basic techniques like pencil sketching, shading, and perspective.

Activities: Divided into groups, participants worked on specific themes, such as nature, still life, and abstract art. Each group received sketching supplies and instructions on using different types of pencils and charcoal to achieve various shading effects. Beginners and seasoned artists alike enjoyed experimenting with blending, shadowing, and adding depth to their work.

Outcome: The class concluded with a mini-exhibition where everyone displayed their artwork. The variety of styles and subjects showcased the unique perspective each participant brought to the table, turning simple sketches into expressive pieces.

 Bottle Art Class: Turning Waste into Wonder

In this bottle art class, we celebrated the beauty of upcycling by transforming everyday bottles into pieces of art. Using paint, fabric, and various embellishments, participants learned how to give discarded bottles new life as decorative items.

Activities: Participants chose glass or plastic bottles and explored various decoration techniques like painting, decoupage, and using 3D elements. With a splash of acrylic paint and a sprinkle of beads, each bottle evolved into a unique work of art. Our instructor guided them through color selection and pattern-making, encouraging everyone to experiment with their designs.

Outcome: At the end of the session, each participant had a beautifully decorated bottle to take home, which served as both a memento of their creativity and a conversation starter for sustainable art practices.

Glass Painting: Bringing Color to Transparency

Glass painting offers a wonderful way to create art that interacts with light, making it an elegant addition to any room. In this session, participants learned techniques to paint on glass surfaces, creating designs that could serve as sun-catchers or decor.

Activities: Participants began by choosing a simple design and tracing it onto a glass panel or plate. Using special glass paints, they learned techniques for layering colors and creating gradients. The focus was on creating clean, vivid patterns that capture light beautifully. The session included tips on drying, finishing, and caring for glass-painted pieces.

Outcome: Each participant went home with a stunning glass painting, perfect for brightening up any window or as a decorative item on a shelf.

Paper Art: Crafting with Paper Magic

Paper art is versatile and can range from delicate quilling to bold origami or intricate paper-cutting. In this class, participants were introduced to various paper-crafting techniques, each with its own charm and creative possibilities.

Activities: With an assortment of colorful papers, scissors, glue, and other supplies, participants were guided in making paper flowers, animals, and decorative shapes. For those interested in quilling, there was a mini-tutorial on rolling and shaping paper strips to create intricate patterns. The room was filled with creativity as everyone tried their hand at different paper art styles, producing everything from greeting cards to small paper sculptures.

Outcome: Each participant left with a unique paper creation that could be framed, gifted, or displayed at home as a reminder of their artistic journey.

Final Reflections

The workshop was more than just learning new skills—it was a chance to explore different mediums and let go of inhibitions. Each activity encouraged participants to try something new, creating a warm, collaborative environment. The feedback session at the end of each class allowed everyone to share their experiences and connect with fellow creatives.

Workshops like these are a fantastic way to nurture one’s creative potential, find joy in self-expression, and develop a newfound appreciation for the art-making process. Whether you're an experienced artist or a curious beginner, there’s always something to learn and discover in the world of art. We look forward to hosting more of these workshops, where creativity knows no bounds!

 International Teachers' Day Celebration: Snehapoorvam – A Tribute to Our Guiding Lights

On October 7 2024, our college celebrated International Teachers' Day with the event Snehapoorvam, a heartfelt tribute to the mentors and educators who shape our lives and inspire us every day. The celebration was filled with love, gratitude, and respect for the tireless efforts of our teachers who continuously guide us towards success and personal growth.

A Day to Honor Educators

The event, aptly named Snehapoorvam (meaning ‘With Love’), reflected the deep bond between students and teachers. It was not just a celebration but a moment to recognize the pivotal role teachers play in shaping our futures, molding our character, and igniting the spark of knowledge.

The day began with a warm welcome by the students, as teachers were greeted with flowers and handmade cards. The atmosphere was filled with appreciation and respect, setting the tone for what was to be a memorable celebration.

Inaugural Ceremony and Felicitations

As part of the ceremony, several teachers were honored with special gifts and tokens of appreciation, recognizing their years of service, dedication, and commitment to the institution. The teachers, in turn, expressed their gratitude and shared how meaningful it was to be part of the students' journey.

Cultural Performances by Students

One of the most exciting parts of the celebration was the cultural performances by students, which were specially prepared to entertain and express love for their teachers. contemporary dances performed by students added a lively touch to the event. Each performance symbolized the joy of learning and the invaluable role of teachers in our lives.

Words of Wisdom: Teachers Reflect

The day was made even more special by the heartfelt speeches from some of the senior faculty members. They shared their experiences as educators, the challenges they faced, and the joy of watching students grow and succeed. Their words were not just filled with wisdom but also reflected the deep passion they have for teaching.

One of the teachers remarked, "A teacher’s role goes beyond textbooks. It’s about being there for students when they need guidance, encouragement, and sometimes even a little push. Days like Snehapoorvam remind us of why we chose this noble profession."

Gratitude and Goodbyes

The event concluded with a vote of thanks from the students, expressing their sincere gratitude to every teacher for their relentless efforts. A group photo captured the joyful mood, with students and teachers beaming with smiles and warmth. As the celebration came to an end, the lasting feeling was one of love, respect, and the shared bond between teachers and students.

Conclusion

Snehapoorvam was not just a celebration of Teachers' Day, but a reminder of the profound impact teachers have on our lives. The event highlighted the special connection between students and teachers, showcasing how education is not just about academic learning but about fostering relationships built on trust, guidance, and love.

The event left both students and teachers with a renewed sense of pride and joy. As we left the auditorium that day, the message was clear — teachers are, indeed, the unsung heroes who light the path for generations to come. Snehapoorvam was a small yet meaningful gesture to say "Thank You" to those who

 have dedicated their lives to shaping ours.

 Exploring Culture, Science, and Nature: A Field Trip to Thiruvananthapuram 

Our recent field trip to some of the most iconic spots in and around Thiruvananthapuram was an unforgettable blend of literature, science, culture, and nature. The journey took us to four fascinating destinations - the Kumaranasan Memorial in Thonnakkal, the Planetarium, the Kerala Arts and Crafts Village, and the serene Kovalam Beach. This day-long trip not only enriched our knowledge but also gave us a chance to connect with Kerala’s heritage and scenic beauty.

Kumaranasan Memorial, Thonnakkal: A Tribute to a Literary Giant

Our first stop was the Kumaranasan Memorial in Thonnakkal, dedicated to one of Kerala’s most revered poets, Mahakavi Kumaran Asan. The serene memorial, surrounded by greenery, is a fitting tribute to a poet who shaped the Malayalam literary landscape. As we walked through the premises, we were immersed in Asan’s world of poetry that often spoke of social reform, human dignity, and the search for truth.

The guide at the memorial shared insightful details about Asan’s life and works, particularly his role in the renaissance of Malayalam literature. We had the opportunity to see manuscripts, letters, and photographs that offered a glimpse into his personal and literary life. The visit was a deeply reflective experience, leaving us inspired by Asan’s contributions to both literature and society.

Priyadarshini Planetarium: A Journey Through Space

Next on the itinerary was the Priyadarshini Planetarium in Thiruvananthapuram, one of the most advanced planetariums in India. This stop took us from the literary world into the realm of science and the cosmos. We watched a stunning show about the universe, stars, and planets, which felt like a journey through space and time.

The immersive visuals and engaging narration sparked a sense of awe as we learned about distant galaxies, black holes, and the mysteries of the universe. The planetarium’s interactive exhibits further deepened our understanding of space science. This part of the trip was a thrilling experience for those fascinated by astronomy and scientific exploration.

Kerala Arts and Crafts Village: A Celebration of Tradition

Our visit to the Kerala Arts and Crafts Village in Vellar, Thiruvananthapuram, was a vibrant dive into Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. This sprawling campus, designed to preserve and promote traditional arts and crafts, is a creative haven for artisans and craftsmen. As we walked through the various workshops, we witnessed artisans at work — from weaving and pottery to intricate wood carving and mural painting.

The village not only showcases the craftsmanship but also offers visitors the chance to interact with the artists and understand the techniques behind these time-honored practices. The highlight was watching the creation of Kerala’s famous Netti pattam (elephant caparison) and traditional jewelry. Many of us purchased souvenirs, supporting the local artisans and taking home a piece of Kerala’s cultural legacy.

Kovalam Beach: Serenity by the Sea

The final stop on our field trip was the picturesque Kovalam Beach, one of Kerala’s most famous tourist destinations. After a day filled with learning and exploration, Kovalam provided the perfect spot for relaxation. With its crescent-shaped shoreline and gentle waves, the beach offered a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

We spent the evening strolling along the sandy shores, watching the sun dip into the horizon. Some students enjoyed the water, while others relaxed on the beach, soaking in the beauty of the Arabian Sea. The lighthouse at Kovalam added to the scenic charm, creating a postcard-perfect view that left us in awe of nature’s beauty.

Reflections on the Trip

This field trip was a holistic experience, offering us the chance to explore Kerala’s literary, scientific, cultural, and natural treasures. Each destination taught us something new — whether it was Kumaran Asan’s profound influence on Malayalam poetry, the wonders of space, the rich tradition of Kerala’s craftsmanship, or the peaceful rhythm of the sea at Kovalam.

As we boarded the bus to head back, we carried with us not just memories, but also a deeper appreciation for the diverse experiences Kerala has to offer. The trip was a perfect blend of education and relaxation, leaving us enriched, inspired, and ready for more adventures.

From the quiet reflections at the Kumaranasan Memorial to the expansive view of the cosmos at the planetarium, the intricate artistry at the crafts village, and the serene sunset at Kovalam Beach, this field trip was truly an experience to cherish.