Gate Keeping Training Programme at Nithiravilai

The Changing the Way We Care (CTWWC) project team hosted an important gate-keeping program for the MathurJyothis members of the Nithravilai Forane, with 28 enthusiastic participants on August 4, 2024. The event, led by Miss Jenisha and Miss Rasmitha, case managers from CTWWC, aimed to stress the crucial idea that every child has the right to live safely and securely with their parents. The main job of the gatekeepers, as explained in the session, is to make sure that all children in their villages are protected and cared for. Miss Jenisha and Miss Rasmitha gave an informative presentation about the key responsibilities of the gatekeepers and the goals of the CTWWC project. Their talk helped clarify the project's purpose and the importance of keeping children safe. After their presentation, Rev. Fr. Jose Muttathupadam, Parish Priest of NithravilaiForane Church, spoke about the significance of the project, emphasizing how it benefits the community and supports child welfare. 

Breast Feeding Awareness Programme

The Changing the Way We Care (CTWWC) team from the Kanyakumari Social Service Society organized a Breastfeeding Awareness Program to mark World Breastfeeding Week on August 2,2024. The event was held at the Marappadi community hall and saw active participation from Assistant Director Rev. Fr. SubinPuthenpurackal, who also took part in honoring the participants.The program featured presentations from the Arumanai Health and Wellness Centre, Mid-Level Health Providers, and Village Health Nurses. These experts provided valuable insights into the importance of breastfeeding and discussed the critical role it plays in preventing malnutrition among children. They highlighted the rising concern of child malnutrition and shared the underlying causes, aiming to educate the community about effective practices for improving child health.The session was well-attended, with over 50 participants from the Arumanai Panchayat joining the event.

Empowering Students: Awareness Training on Addiction at Holy Family Higher Secondary School

Holy Family Higher Secondary School in Mukkootukal held a vital awareness training program for students from the 6th to the 12th grades on August 19th and 21st, 2024. This event, organized by the school management, aimed to address the pressing issue of addiction through a combination of educational and interactive sessions.     The training was divided into two informative sessions. The first session, led by Fr. Mijo, focused on addiction in its various forms. He provided a thorough analysis of addiction, including substance abuse, behavioural addictions, and notably, mobile and social media addiction. He highlighted the growing concern of excessive mobile and social media use, discussing its impact on mental health, academic performance, and social relationships. His systematic approach offered students valuable insights into recognizing signs of addiction and strategies for managing and recovering from it.

Empowering Future Social Workers: MSW Training Class at KKSSS

KKSSS hosted a comprehensive training class for MSW (Master of Social Work) students of Nanjil Catholic College, Kaliyakkavilai on August 14. The session began with an overview of the organization's mission and the role of social workers in community development. Key highlights included presentations by KKSSS Director Rev. Fr. Thomas Poovattummottil, who shared insights into successful community programs and innovative approaches to social issues. Students posed questions and received personalized advice on their future careers. The training class was a significant step in preparing these future social workers for impactful roles in their communities, reflecting KKSSS’s commitment for advancing social work education and practice.

The 9th edition of the VARNAM inter-district painting and drawing competition, organized by the Kanyakumari Social Service Society (KKSSS), took place on November 8, 2024, as part of the celebrations for National and International Children’s Day in the month of November. The event saw the enthusiastic participation of 35 schools from across Kanyakumari district, with students competing in various categories and winning numerous prizes.The inaugural ceremony began with a prayer song performed by the students of CSI Matric Higher Secondary School, Azhagiyamanadapam, setting a serene tone for the event. Rev. Fr. Thomas Poovathummoottil, the director of KKSSS, welcomed the chief guest, Rev. Fr. Michael Arokiyaswamy SDB, Principal of St. Alphonsa Arts and Science College, Soosaipuram, along with all the distinguished guests and participants.

In his inaugural address, Rev. Fr. Michael Arokiyaswamy SDB encouraged the students to explore and develop their artistic talents, emphasizing the importance of creativity in shaping their futures. Rev. Fr. Subin Puthenpurackal, Assistant Director of KKSSS, then provided the instructions for the competition, ensuring all participants understood the rules and guidelines. The competition was divided into two categories: Drawing for students from grades IV to VI, and Painting for students from grades VII to X. The students were given one hour to complete their artwork.Following the competition, Rev. Fr. Nelson, Director of the Thirupumunai D-addiction Centre, conducted an informative session on the dangers of addiction, underscoring the significance of healthy choices and the importance of staying away from harmful substances.

The concluding ceremony was held later in the day, where Rev. Fr. Thomas Poovathummoottil delivered the welcome address. The chief guest for the concluding session was Mrs. Jenusha Ajith, the President of Mulagumoodu Panchayat, who spoke about the artistic potential of children and congratulated the winners for their creative excellence. She also praised the event for providing a platform for students to showcase their talents.Prizes were distributed to the winners in each category, including First, Second, and Third place, along with consolation prizes. All participating schools were awarded a shield in recognition of their involvement. The event concluded with a speech by Rev. Fr. Subin Puthenpurackal, Assistant Director of KKSSS, who thanked everyone for their participation and support, and encouraged students to continue exploring their creative abilities.The VARNAM competition was a remarkable success, celebrating the artistic achievements of students from Kanyakumari district and fostering a spirit of creativity, unity, and social awareness among the young participants.