I'm overjoyed to let you know that our institution has been assisting the underprivileged for the past 28 years, and we are quite proud of what we have accomplished. Despite obstacles, we were nevertheless able to advance significantly at the district and state levels. Our women Self Help Groups have developed into influential figures in their communities and have assisted numerous families who are battling with poverty. They have established enterprises and promoted community development.
We want to put more of an emphasis on educating and supporting kids and young people. We encourage everyone to take part in our activities and we will continue to assist the elderly, widows, and crippled. We want to express our gratitude to everyone who has helped us, notably the government and our donors.
With requests for ongoing assistance.
In the spirit of social action,
(A. Tamil Selvan) Secretary.
Read MoreThe Women and Child Development Society (WCDS) is an active organization that operates in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu State. They have been working for 30 years to help rural women, youth and children. WCDS works with both government and non-government organizations to provide services to the community. During the financial year from April 2020 to March 2021, WCDS was able to offer various services to the target community.
We can divide the development activities of WCDS into the following categories based on their priority services to the target community.
If you find yourself with any questions, concerns, or inquiries, please feel absolutely free to contact us. Our dedicated team is readily available to provide you with the assistance you need.
WCDS operates a Rural High School located at Kadamboduvalvu village in Tirunelveli district. The school is designed to benefit poor children from our target villages, and our goal is to make high-quality school education accessible and affordable to all, especially rural underprivileged children. This is a co-educational English Medium school that offers a wholesome quality education to bring out the best and noblest qualities in rural children, with the aim of making them good and loyal citizens. The school curriculum places due emphasis on the physical, intellectual, and spiritual development of the child's personality. Co-curricular activities of various types are provided to promote the harmonious development of both mind and body. Currently, our school provides quality education to approximately 500 rural children.
WCDS operates St. Joseph College of Education in Kadamboduvalvu, a rural area situated between Nanguneri and Kalakad. The college offers two courses –
WCDS offers a two-year Diploma course in Teachers Education (D.Ted) that accepts up to 100 students each year. The purpose of the course is to equip rural youth with professional teaching skills that will not only provide them with employment opportunities but also help them create good citizens. WCDS believes that a peaceful and prosperous society can only be developed through good education, and so they aim to produce teachers who are academically excellent and also good human beings. The course also emphasizes the importance of understanding the needs of the child, developing leadership qualities, and effective communication skills. This course is recognized by NCTE, Bangalore and affiliated with the Directorate of Teachers Education, Chennai.
WCDS also offers a 2-year Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) Degree Program, which admits up to 200 students annually. The program has core specializations in English, Science, Mathematics, Social Science, and Commerce. The College's objective is to provide quality learning experiences that develop the overall personality of the teacher-trainees. The institution aims to instil desirable values and attitudes in the trainees, develop their skills and creative potential, and equip them with modern trends in education to develop concern, commitment, and responsibility towards society. The program is recognized by NCTE and affiliated with Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University.
Apart from the D.Ted and B.Ed programs, WCDS also conducts other programs to trainees. These programs aim to increase their social awareness and community responsibilities.
We celebrated the World Food Day on 25th November 2020 with the exhibition of food varieties in our campus to commemorate the 77th year of establishment of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) on 16th October 1945. FAO as one of the specialised agencies of the United Nations makes efforts at international level to defeat hunger. The get-together of children and youth emphasised the importance of access and assurance of food security to the poor and the underprivileged. The theme of the World Food Day was ‘Safe food now for a healthy tomorrow’.
The guest speakers highlighted the problems of global hunger. They emphasised the importance of Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG 2) i.e., Zero Hunger. They stressed the need for everyone to play their part in bringing forward those left behind by making our agriculture food systems more inclusive and sustainable.
They requested the children and youth to promote worldwide awareness and action for those who suffer from hunger and for the need to ensure healthy diets for all. They told them to organize many awareness initiatives to educate people about malnutrition and obesity, both of which cause major health consequences.
One of the guest speakers informed that The Hunger Hotspots Outlook (2020-21), a report by the FAO and World Food Programme (WFP) — forebodes escalating hunger. Moreover The Global Report on Food Crises 2021 released in May by the Global Network against Food Crises underscored that about 180 million people across 40 countries will face inescapable food insecurity. The Global Hunger Report, 2021 says the globally, the progress against hunger has largely stagnated in recent years, with a global score of 18.2 in 2021 as compared to 19.1 in 2014, there is only a slight improvement,
It was pointed out that barring war-torn Afghanistan, India has performed worse than all the countries in the South Asian region in the Global Hunger Index 2021. It has ranked 107 out of 121 countries.
The guest speaker further pointed out that Eat Right India and Fit India Movement along with Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Jal Jeevan Mission and other efforts will improve the health of our people and heal the environment. He opined that there is a need to increase the ambit and effective implementation of the Food Security Act, 2013.
We celebrated Children’s Day on November 20th 2020 to mark the birth anniversary of independent India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. We celebrated the day with the participation of our school children and students in front of our college premises.
The former principal of our college Krishna Kumar and Chancellor Tamilselvan participated and conducted a sports competition for the school students and gave them prizes
While delivering the keynote address, the Chancellor said that Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru as the freedom fighter and politician was extremely fond of children and was fondly called ‘Uncle Nehru’ by them. Even after years of his death, he is remembered by that name and in honour of his legacy and fondness for children, his birth anniversary is celebrated as Children’s Day.
He further said that initially Children’s Day in India was celebrated on November 20 in accordance with the Universal Children’s Day declared by the United Nations. However, after Jawaharlal Nehru’s demise in 1964, a resolution was passed in the Indian Parliament that declared November 14 as Children’s Day to honour the legacy of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. The day, as opposed to popular belief, is not a gazetted holiday but children are encouraged to go to school and be a part of the celebrations of this day. In our educational institutions, this day is marked with special assemblies and functions. We organize events like quizzes, cultural activities, plays, fancy dress competitions, etc., to increase participation and make children aware of the rich historical past of the country and the eminent personalities that were a part of it.
In his special address, Mr Krishna Kumar said that in addition to commemorating the great leader, the day is also a reminder that every child, irrespective of their caste, creed, financial or political status, deserves basic amenities that include education, nurturing, healthcare and sanitation. He further said that since children are the future of the nation, they hold within them immense potential and to channel it constructively, is a responsibility that the entire nation should shoulder. Apart from providing basic rights to children, it is also important to save them from prominent social evils like child trafficking, assault and child labour, which is a sheer atrocity and wastage of priceless human resources.
Human Rights Day is a significant observance that commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. It is a day to celebrate and recognize the fundamental rights and freedoms that are inherent to every individual, regardless of race, gender, religion, or any other status.
Our college places great emphasis on human rights and its celebration, which is marked every year on December 10th. The college community organizes various activities and events to promote awareness and engagement with human rights issues. These activities aim to educate and empower students, staff, and faculty to become advocates for social justice and human rights.
Human Rights Day was celebrated on December 26th 2020 at S Joseph's College of Education, Kalakad. Advocate Maria Stephen and Advocate Murugan participated in the program as special guests. They gave special speeches to the students about the Judiciary with the idea that every human being has the right to live freely and get basic needs like freedom of expression, right to write, education, medicine, health and drinking water.
One of the highlights of the college's celebration of Human Rights Day is the keynote speaker event. This event features a renowned human rights advocate, who speaks on a topic related to human rights, social justice, or diversity and inclusion. The keynote speaker's presentations are usually followed by a question-and-answer session, where attendees can engage with the speaker and further their understanding of the topic.
Another popular activity during the celebration is the human rights film screening. The college screened a documentary that raised awareness of a human rights issue. After the screening, a panel discussion was held to allow attendees to discuss and share their thoughts and perspectives on the issue.
In addition to these events, the college also hosted workshops and training sessions that provide attendees with tools and resources to become active in promoting human rights. These workshops covered a variety of topics, including advocacy and lobbying, diversity and inclusion, and social justice.
The college also encouraged students to get involved in human rights activities beyond the campus. Students were encouraged to participate in human rights organizations, attend protests and rallies, and volunteer for human rights causes. The college provided resources and connections to organizations that focus on human rights advocacy, enabling students to engage in meaningful work in their communities.
The celebration of Human Rights Day was not only important for promoting awareness and engagement with human rights issues, but it also aligned with the college's mission of developing responsible citizens and leaders. By promoting human rights education and advocacy, the college aims to instil in its students a sense of social responsibility and a commitment to justice.
In conclusion, the college's celebration of Human Rights Day was an essential observance that promotes awareness, education, and advocacy for human rights. Through its various activities and events, the college provided students, staff, and faculty with the tools and resources they need to become effective advocates for social justice and human rights. By participating in the celebration, the college community reinforced its commitment to developing responsible citizens and leaders who are committed to making a positive impact in their communities and the world.
Independence Day was a patriotic event held to commemorate our independence from colonial rule. Independence Day is celebrated on the 15th of August every year, to mark the day in 1947 when India gained independence from British rule.
On August 15, 2020, we celebrated our 73rd Independence Day with zeal. Mr. Jebenesr Gnaniah, Manager, State Bank of India, Kalakad Branch, participated and hoisted the flag. The college campus was beautifully decorated with flags and balloons to commemorate the day. At 9.00 a.m., students, teachers, and non-teaching staff members gathered on the college grounds. The programme started at 9.30 am followed by a prayer. Mr. Tamilselvan, Chairperson, welcomed all the members present for the function. After that, SBI Bank Manager hoisted the flag, and we sang the flag song and National anthem together. Mr Tamilselvan gave brief introduction of the day. College students gave 3 inspiring speeches in Tamil and English.
A cultural programme was also held in the college campus, where students of all classes participated. Some students sung patriotic songs, some performed patriotic dances, and some dressed up as freedom fighters and played their roles. As a part of the occasion, different drawing activities were organised for the students on 13th August 2020 and also tree plantation was done by the teachers. Mr Jebenesr Gnaniah gave a message that we have to become good citizens of India. There were some parents who attended the whole programme along with their family members. The vote of thanks was given by the Principal. Sweets were distributed among all the students. The programme ended by 11.30 a.m.
International Women's Day is a global event celebrated on the 8th of March every year to commemorate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also highlights the ongoing struggle for gender equality and women's rights. The purpose of celebrating Women's Day is to raise awareness about the status and dignity of women among the students.
On March 8, 2021, we observed International Women's Day. Dr Saratha Venugopal and Advocate Ms Nithyanandhi were the function's special guests, and they delivered speeches on gender equality and women's welfare.
We organised an essay writing competition on Women's Day in the morning, and many of the students participated in that. It was interesting to know that boys have also participated. After the completion of the essay writing competition, a short program was conducted in the multipurpose hall of our college.
Dr Saratha Venugopal gave a short speech on Women's Day. Then some fun events were designed to make the boys realize the women's daily household work and, of course, to have fun for all. The events included-Sari draping. Hairstyling, button stitching. It was a lot of fun. At the end, prize distribution for the winners of essay writing competition was done.
We celebrated Elders’ Day on October 1, 2020. Mr. Tamilselvan, Chairman, participated and honoured the senior citizens with clothes and sweets.
The main aim of celebrating World Elder’s Day 2020 is to promote the happiness of the elderly. Some people have no concern for their own ageing parents. As a result, it is critical to begin the revival of sentiments towards the elderly. The celebration of World Elder’s Day thus maintains the importance of these elderly angels in our lives.
The main goal of the day is to educate people about the care and love that the elderly require. Moreover, the International Day of Older Persons was marked as a great hope for the elderly and a way to realize how much their kids and grandchildren love them.
Every year, we observe "Elder's Day" to ensure the rights of the elderly, as well as to recognise their significant contributions to society and to benefit from their knowledge and abilities. The day was celebrated to examine issues, promote public awareness, and focus on which type of behaviour can help older men, and women throughout their lives.
Washing our hands properly is the most effective way of preventing illness and the spreading of germs. Global Handwashing Day, is all about educating others on the importance of handwashing and promoting good hand hygiene amongst all. In current context of Covid-19, the importance of frequent handwashing with soap or using alcohol-based sanitizers, has been globally realized as one of the basic COVID-19 prevention measures.
TTo raise awareness on the importance of handwashing for children’s health and education, Mr. Tamilselvan, Chairman, celebrated Global Handwashing Day on October 15, 2020 with school children and college students.
Students were educated about personal hygiene and cleanliness through discussions. They were able to be active and produced their own thoughts regarding washing problems thanks to exciting and enjoyable activities. At the celebration, there was a handwashing activity planned, and the pupils were prepared with their soap and towels. Teachers explained the dos and don'ts of hand hygiene.
Children learned how to wash their hands properly and were encouraged to wash their hands frequently to maintain good health. Children were motivated to wash their hands before and after having their meals, as dirty hands were the root cause of various diseases.
The celebration ended with a positive message and made handwashing with soap exciting for the young ones and turned into a habit.
Currently, a significant environmental problem is plastic trash. Every year, millions of tons of plastic end up in landfills and the ocean, causing harm to wildlife, ecosystems, and human health. As such, there is a growing need for plastic awareness among individuals, communities, and businesses.
Hence, both the Kalakad Panchayat Union and St. Joseph College of Education jointly organized an awareness program on September 25, 2020 under the theme of Swachh Bharath Movement to create a plastic-free India. The Village Administrative Officer participated and delivered a special speech.
In his special speech, the VAO said that one of the biggest challenges with plastic waste is the fact that it takes hundreds of years to decompose. As a result, plastic waste can remain in the environment for a very long time, causing harm to wildlife and ecosystems. To address this issue, there is a need for greater awareness of the importance of reducing, reusing, and recycling plastic.
He further said that reducing plastic usage is the first step in plastic awareness. This involves using fewer plastic products in our daily lives, such as single-use plastic bags, bottles, and straws. Instead, individuals can opt for reusable alternatives such as cloth bags, refillable water bottles, and metal straws. Businesses can also play a role in reducing plastic waste by using more sustainable packaging and reducing the amount of plastic in their products.
He continued to say that reusing plastic is another important aspect of plastic awareness. This involves finding new uses for plastic products rather than throwing them away. For example, plastic containers can be reused for storage, and plastic bags can be used as trash can liners. By finding ways to reuse plastic products, individuals and businesses can reduce the amount of plastic waste that ends up in landfills and the ocean.
He further added that recycling plastic is also essential for plastic awareness. This involves properly disposing of plastic products so that they can be recycled and turned into new products. Recycling not only reduces the amount of plastic waste that ends up in the environment but also conserves natural resources by reducing the need for new materials.
In addition to reducing, reusing, and recycling plastic, he said, there are other ways to raise awareness about the importance of plastic waste reduction. Education and outreach programs can help to inform individuals and communities about the impact of plastic waste on the environment and human health. These programs can include public events, social media campaigns, and educational materials such as brochures and posters.
Government regulations can also play a role in plastic awareness. Many countries and cities have implemented policies to reduce plastic waste, such as banning single-use plastic bags and straws. These policies can help to create a culture of plastic awareness and encourage individuals and businesses to reduce their plastic usage.
In conclusion, plastic awareness is crucial for addressing the issue of plastic waste. By reducing, reusing, and recycling plastic products, individuals and businesses can help to reduce the amount of plastic waste that ends up in the environment. Education and outreach programs, as well as government policies, can also play a role in raising awareness about the importance of plastic waste reduction. By working together, we can create a more sustainable future and protect our environment for generations to come.
Tailoring training is an essential component of any skill-building program. It involves customizing training to meet the specific needs of an individual or a group of individuals, based on their skills, knowledge, and experience. Tailored training can help to improve learning outcomes, increase productivity, and enhance job performance.
Therefore, with a view to equip women with tailoring skills, WCDS organized tailoring training to 20 unemployed women in our centre to suit the needs of different learners. This means that training was designed to cater to learners with different learning styles, backgrounds, and skill levels. By tailoring training to suit the needs of individual learners, trainers ensured that they are better able to engage with the material and apply it in their work.
Tailored training also helped to improve learning outcomes. Since the training was designed to meet the specific needs of learners, it was more effective in helping them to acquire new skills and knowledge. This helped to improve job performance and increase productivity.
Furthermore, tailored training helped to enhance job performance. By providing learners with the specific skills and knowledge they were expected to perform their job, training helped to improve their confidence and competence. This led to better job performance, higher job satisfaction, and increased employee retention.
In addition, we assisted he trained women with bank loans for launching their own tailoring and garments making units.
In conclusion, tailored training is an important component of any skill-building program. It helped to improve learning outcomes, increase productivity, enhance job performance, and reduce training costs. By customizing training to meet the specific needs of individual learners, trainers ensured that they are better able to engage with the material and apply it in their work.
Computer training could have a significant impact on the lives of poor girls, providing them with the knowledge and skills they need to improve their quality of life and increase their economic opportunities.
The purpose of computer training for poor girls was multi-faceted. Firstly, it provided them with digital literacy, which is essential in today's world where technology is ubiquitous. With computer training, girls could learn how to use basic software applications, navigate the internet, and access information and resources online.
With this purpose in mind, WCDS imparted computer training, from which 20 poor girls from Nanguneri and Kalakad blocks benefited. They were trained in computer skills, spoken English, office management, and personality development. After the successful completion of the training, the trainees were given certificates of completion. This would help them get employed within and outside the state.
Moreover, computer training can empower poor girls to pursue better job opportunities. With the skills gained through computer training, they can find employment in the growing technology industry, which could provide them with a stable income and greater financial independence. In addition, computer skills could help girls start their own businesses, which can help them generate income and support their families.
Furthermore, computer training could help poor girls to access education and healthcare resources. With the ability to access online resources, they could learn more about health and nutrition, access educational materials and connect with healthcare professionals remotely.
Overall, computer training could help poor girls break the cycle of poverty, by providing them with valuable skills, knowledge, and resources that can improve their quality of life and increase their economic opportunities.
WCDS organised free coaching for competitive examinations to provide free training and coaching to economically disadvantaged students to help them prepare for entrance exams for various competitive examinations. These exams include the civil services, engineering, medical, law, and other professional courses. The coaching aims to provide equal opportunities for students from all backgrounds and reduce the socio-economic disparities that exist in the education system.
Free coaching for competitive examinations was provided by experienced and qualified trainers who had a deep understanding of the exam patterns, syllabus, and other requirements. The coaching program included intensive classroom teaching, study materials, mock tests, and other resources to help students prepare for the exams.
The program was successful in helping economically disadvantaged students overcome financial barriers and achieve their academic and career goals. It enabled many students from underprivileged backgrounds to secure admission into prestigious institutions and pursue their dreams. The initiative also helped promote social mobility and improve diversity in the education system.
WCDS conducted free coaching classes during the reporting period to poor youth for preparing them in various competitive examinations offered by both in central and state and central governments. During the reporting year, 20 students from Dalit and most backward communities were trained and additional training on techniques of interviews, group discussions and communication skills were also imparted.
WCDS has partners who worked together to achieve common objectives during the reporting period of 2020-2021. These partners include government agencies, private donors, and individuals. The members of General Body,, Executive Committee and the Staff of our organization would like to thank all the supporting institutions, funding agencies, Government line departments, officials, resource team, and friends who generously supported our activities and efforts during this period. We hope to receive their continued contributions, support, and guidance in the upcoming years as well.
We also express our gratitude to our friends, neighbouring institutions, and our dedicated staff members who tirelessly helped us carry out our planned activities with positive outcomes.
