Objectives of the Practice

Theresian Helping Hands is student driven practice dedicated to providing support, assistance, and resources to those in need within the student community.

The Context

Theresian Helping Hands, wholeheartedly committed to offering support, aid, and essential resources to individuals facing difficulties, challenges within the student community, demonstrating unwavering dedication and strong sense of community service.

The Practice

Theresian Helping Hands, deeply rooted in compassion, is dedicated to providing unwavering support, crucial assistance, and essential resources to students encountering financial challenges. Their commitment to the student community shines through their strong sense of community service and unstoppable dedication to making a positive impact on those in need.

Evidence of success

Theresian Helping Hands carefully evaluated and confirmed 10 students 41,000/-based on their requirements before generously supporting them with donations specifically earmarked for covering their fees. Each student received personal attention and tailored assistance ensuring their educational needs with compassion.

Problems encountered and resources required

In working with Theresian Helping Hands, one notable issue we faced was the limited student participation in donations, with only a few individuals contributing, often in smaller denominations than expected.

Note

the concept is driven by a profound sense of empathy, stands as a pillar of unwavering support for students by student and to students navigating financial hardship. Through the provision of vital resources and compassionate aid, they exemplify their enduring commitment to fostering a strong community bond and uplifting those in need with their relentless dedication to service.

Objectives of the Practice

• To make students enjoy ‘Joy of giving’ to others
• To strengthen student’s responsibility towards the community
• To make students think about the less privileged
• To inculcate the habit of sharing
• To broaden the student’s vision

The Context

There are many sections of the community who are less privileged or underprivileged to enjoy the major occasions due to their social and economic status. So, Joy of Giving Week organized during the Christmas season motivates the students to reach out to the community. This enhances the belongingness and responsibility towards the less privileged in the society. Students get an opportunity to experience the satisfaction of sharing things with others. In this context Joy of Giving Week was started in the campus.

The Practice

‘Joy of Giving Week’ is observed during the month of December that is Christmas season. It is a practice of sharing anything in kind with the children of Govt. Schools, orphanages and slums. The staff and students of Ch.S.D.St.Theresa’s Autonomous College for women, Eluru, AP, voluntarily came forward to observe the joy of giving week. They are self motivated to donate various things like pencils, pens, chocolates, money, books, colour pencils, crayons, toys, clothes etc. The occasion of sharing gifts is made more joyful by the inclusion of some cultural and value oriented entertainment and Santa clause. The college students as well as the children and elders in the schools and slums eagerly wait for this event. The students take pride of doing the task and organize the whole event.

Obstacles faced if any and strategies adapted to over come

The major obstacle faced in the implementation of the programme is the distribution of the things without much disturbance to the regular academic work. To overcome this problem management took a decision to provide the college vehicle to reach the schools and slums. The students were divided into groups so that most of them get chance to go, share the gifts and experience the joy of giving.

Impact of the practice

This practice created a very good impact on students who came forward willingly to share several things in different forms. They experienced utmost joy in sharing with the children and enjoyed the practice. Immense joy and happiness was observed on the faces of the children who received the token of love from the college students. This made an impact on the belongingness to one another and widened the thought for community service activities. Joy of giving week inculcates the habit of sharing with others. They experience the pure of joy of giving without expecting anything in return.

Objectives of the Practice

In order to provide short term medical cover to the students, the college has taken the initiative to introduce an Insurance Scheme named ST.THERESA’S AROGYA RAKSHITA SCHEME (STARS). The objectives of the practice are as follows:

• To increase access to quality basic healthcare for financially weak students.
• To directly create awareness about diseases and malnutrition among students.
• To lower absenteeism among students due to ill-health.
• To build sustainable medical amenity in the campus.

The Context

Health is the primary concern for any individual. It is more so for the students because being absent due to ill-health may affect their academic performance. Hence a medical insurance in the college for the students would help them to overcome the barriers of ill-health. As a part of the program, the needy would be eligible to use the MEDICAL BENEFITS especially the financially weak students.

The Practice

The medical cover is limited only to the students of Ch.S.D.St.Theresa’s College as long as they are studying in the campus. The scheme includes Health screening, identification of over or under nutrition among the students, Health and Nutrition education awareness programs, correction of deficiencies if any and partial reimbursement of medical expenses for hospitalization for financially backward students.

Obstacles faced if any and strategies adapted to over come

• The medical coverage may not be enough to sufficiently cover the medical cost in serious conditions.
• Many students health insurance policies exclude coverage for medical conditions that exist prior to the inception of the coverage. This is commonly referred to as a “pre-existing condition” exclusion. Common exclusions include: psychiatric care, prescription medicines etc.
• Lack of awareness among the students about the benefits of medical insurance.
• Negligence about health and malnutrition among women students are factors of concern which cannot be dealt by merely providing them with medical insurance.

The strategies which are adopted in order to overcome these obstacles are creating an awareness about different health issues by ways of seminars, guest lectures, conducting periodical checkups etc.

Impact of the practice

STARS represents an insurance group. Health care reform efforts need to take into account the special needs of adolescents and the challenges they face in accessing care that go beyond financial barriers to care. STARS have been shown to provide a convenient and acceptable source of care, as well as offering the opportunity to provide preventive and primary care services. This practice will surely benefit the students in long run as they would become more conscious about their health.

Objectives of the Practice

• To develop social responsibility in the students towards creating a clean and safe environment.
• To spread the awareness of the havoc created by irresponsible solid waste management.
• To promote safe handling and Management of Solid Waste and prevent damage to the environment.
• To help and build clean and green communities and societies by adopting local habitations/villages and by developing it by involving local people and leaders.

The Context

In Municipality and the villages surrounding the College irresponsible solid waste disposal creates havoc and poses great threat to the safety and protection of the environment. The soil, water and air pollution creates irreparable damage to the environment yet no one assumes social responsibility.The clarion call of the honourable Prime Minister of India Sri Narendra Modi for “Swatch Bharat Abhiyan, on 2nd October, 2014. strengthened the resolve of the Theresians to be champions of clean and green society and environment. Shouldering social responsibility to make our neighboured clean and find sustainable methods to create this awareness, the students under the guidance of the staff initiated the TSBN in October, 2014.

The Practice

The final year Degree students, totalling to above 570 took up a project to study the existing practice of solid waste management in Eluru Municipality in collaboration with the Municipal officers, health and sanitary workers. At the end of the study, in October 2014 the Theresian Swatch Bharat Abhiyan (TSBA) was formally inaugurated with a Mega awareness campaign conducted in all the wards of the municipality, local schools and every street corners. Tree plantation, rally, Sramdhan and competitions being components of this campaign.

Adoption of a village every year, mobilization of local leaders and service minded citizens to collaborate in making the selected area a clean model village at the gross root level function of TSBA. Formation of a Voluntary Committee to supervise the activities and plans, segregation of dry and wet waste at home, door to door collection of solid waste and its safe disposal, plantation and care of shady trees and ornamental plants along the whole village, construction of good roads, prevention of dumping the waste in vacant lands and other similar activities, solar lighting of the streets are the activities being carried out.

Obstacles faced if any and strategies adapted to over come

Safe disposal of solid waste is a problem encountered as the municipality has not provided space/provision to effectively dispose or utilize the waste. The biggest challenge faced by TSBA is to effectively communicate the urgency of the problem regarding environmental protection upto the authorities who make legislation and percolate it to the gross root level.

Impact of the practice

There was a very highly positive response from the public. All the families of the adopted area got involved in planning and executing the activities for ensuring a sustainable system to protect their environment. Seeing the change produced there many other villages have come forward asking the College to take up their villages. Many philanthropists also came forward to work for the cause of environment protection.

Objectives of the Practice

• To identify anaemic students in the college campus
• To make students aware of symptoms of anaemia and its health implications
• To give necessary prophylactic treatment and nutrition supplementation to the anaemic students to improve their health status
• To eradicate anaemia among college students

The Context

Anaemia is a very common health problem prevalent among adolescent girls. Deficiency of Iron, folic acid and other B-complex vitamins and other micronutrients is the major causative factor for this problem. Irrespective of socio-economic background and the nutritive quality of the foods consumed, many students of the college were found to be severely anaemic. Anaemia affects the overall health status of the individual and reduces the quality of performance, hence the need for intervention was identified through a project study undertaken by IQAC of the college in collaboration with Life sciences departments. High prevalence of moderately high anaemia prompted the college to undertake this project of Anaemia Eradication Program (AEP)

The Practice

Every year at the beginning of the academic session health awareness campaigns and a mega health camp are conducted by the inter-departmental coordination of biosciences, applied sciences and local health departments. The identified anaemia students are then supported through the health insurance program (STARS) of the college and provided with prophylactic treatment with iron, folic acid and vitamin-A supplementation and low cost, high nutritious dietary supplementation.

Obstacles faced if any and strategies adapted to over come

The students are often reluctant to continue the prophylaxis program for the desirable duration as it is not appealing in certain aspects. Dietary supplementation needs constant supervision and planning to make the product appealing, tasty and economical.

Impact of the practice

Anaemia is an often an unseen, unnoticed health problem with serious health implications. The prophylactic and nutritional intervention and correction of the micronutrient deficiency has produced a remarkable reduction in the number of anaemic students and reduction of the severity of anaemia. The correction of anaemia is like a catalytic reaction producing more number of positive benefits. The students become more active, resistant to diseases will increase, leading to falling ill less often and thus increasing the percentage of attendance to classes, higher performance levels, physical stamina and a more positive outlook to life on the whole.

Objectives of the Practice

• To make higher education relevant to the learner and the community
• To provide skill based, certifiable and employable TRAINING
• To integrate relevant skills into the higher education system
• To inculcate entrepreneurship
• To strengthen employable skill of the student.

The Context

Education plays an important role in the all-round development of human being as well as the nation. It is a unique investment in the present as well as future. India, at present, is recognised as one of the youngest nations in the world with over 50% of the population under the age of 30 years. It is estimated that by about 2025, India will have 25% of the World’s workforce. This necessitates skill up gradation of our youth along with education. Responding to the clarion call of our Honourable Prime minister St. Theresa’s has launched “Theresian Kaushal Kendra” to improve the skills and in turn the employability of our students.

The Practice

‘Theresian Kaushal Kendra’ is started with an aim to inculcate entrepreneurship skills in the students with particular focus on those who for various reasons will not pursue higher education and would want to be involved in profitable employments. The students are grouped according to their area of interest and given specific skill training both theoretic and practical fields. Business skills, accounting and financial management, entrepreneurial skills, and other aspects form the components of the training. In their leisure hours the students take up production work for income generation and hands on learning experience. The products are certified by the quality control section of the Theresian Kaushal Kendra before they are released for marketing. The products are marketed on various occasions in the campus such as “ College Bazaar”.

Obstacles faced if any and strategies adopted to overcome

The major obstacle faced in the implementation of the programme is availability of time without much disturbance to the regular academic work. The students were divided into groups so that most of them get chance to learn the skills and to produce the selected product.

Impact of the practice

This practice created a very good impact on students who came forward willingly to learn various skills. This improved their income generating and marketing skills. It’s a way of instilling self employment skills along with regular education. It gives confidence to the students about their livelihood in future.

Objectives of the Practice

Bank of St Theresa an adventurous venture undertaken by the B.Com students to teach their peers the importance of budgeting and saving. This is a working bank by students and for students. The attempt of working bank dates back to 1988 when the then B.Com students organized the bank for 15 days successfully. During the academic year 2011-12 the department started the functioning of the Bank again and is being continued.

• To impart managerial skills to B.Com students.
• To give work experience along with the course.
• To inculcate the habit of saving among students.
• To provide financial assistance in times of urgency.
• To give the experience of the behaviour of different kinds of customers.

The Context

Commerce is a course consisting of practical and skill oriented subjects such as Accounting, Auditing, Costing, Banking, Business Organisation and Management. To make the students to understand the subjects they need to get exposed to true working environment. A working business unit can create a platform to give all these practical skills. Therefore the department decided to start a bank which can give these practical skills to the students.

Another reason to select bank is to cater to the small and simple financial needs of students such as providing a chance to save small amounts and borrow loans for emergency needs etc,. Thus the Bank can serve the whole student community of the College.

The Practice

Bank of St Theresa is started with an aim to inculcate management skills and saving habits in the students. Thersesian bank provides long term and short term loans to students and staff members. Students practically learn how to manage accounts and monetary transactions. The bank was initially supported by the SBI main office, Eluru. They helped in formulating the working procedures and forms that can be used as well as the accounting system. A team of 25 students formed in to a committee and designed the entire programme with the help of the lecturers. In the first stage 14 students were selected to take various responsibilities and all other students work for one week.

Obstacles faced if any and strategies adapted to over come

• Some borrowers never pay loans in time.
• Around 1% NPAs
• If financial support is assured the programme can be strengthened
• To overcome this problem bank is taking help of Ward tutors

Impact of the practice

Students get the practical experience, of managing a bank. Besides various managerial skills, they learn team spirit, time management, business skills, accounting and auditing. The bank introduces them to the habit of saving. The profit gained is used for scholarship to the B.Com. students. Hence they learn about social responsibility aspect of Bank. The number of account holders is on the increase.

Objectives of the Practice

• To adopt integrated eco-friendly practices for protecting nature.
• To popularize environment sustainable practices as a way of life in the campus.
• To implant the responsibility of safe guarding nature in individuals and community.
• To make the students ambassadors of change in the society .

The Context

The depleting natural resources, alarming environmental pollution and irreversible damage to the mother earth propelled the college to adopt “Prakruthi” as an eco friendly campus project. It is an integrated program involving the college management, staff, students and public. The college incorporates various collegiate activities with community oriented services in order to implant social consciousness about the urgency to protect and conserve the nature. “Prakruthi” was as a result of the eco consciousness generated by the collaborative project with the Eluru Municipal Corporation about Solid Waste Management conducted in 2015.

The Practice

“PRAKRUTHI” is unique in that it is like a big umbrella that covers a wide range of healthy practices involving the micro level of students to macro level of Eluru Municipal Corporation and the society at large. It was initiated through collaborative seminars and workshops with AP Pollution Control Board, gained momentum from a mega student project on solid waste management in Eluru in collaboration with Eluru Municipal Corporation, strengthened in the Theresian Swatch Bharat Abhiyan movement and resulted in the transformation of the college into a clean and green haven

The project includes activities like

• Installation of 100 KW solar energy plant with net metering
• Establishment of a paper recycling unit the waste paper generated in the campus that produce hand and made paper files, greeting cards, bags other products
• Construction of rain water harvesting units
• Observation of plastic and vehicle free days
• Green Audit and developing model clean and green swatch habitations in collaboration with local government administration and public
• Donation of tricycles and pioneering efficient collection, segregation and disposal of solid waste in Panchayat.
• Producing vermicompost using biodegradable waste from the campus
• Organic farming and marketing of vegetables and greens.

The green soldiers of the campus- the volunteers of Eco club having imbibed the eco consciousness became ambassadors of change in the society and actively participate in the programmes partnership programmes of the college like the Eluru smart city development program and other service oriented activities.

Evidence of success

The practice has percolated into the grass root level bringing about behavioral changes in staff and students towards sustainable and eco-friendly practices.

• There is a significant change in the management of solid waste in the campus and adopted villages.
• The recycled paper products are gaining popularity and started generating income.
• Reduced the expenditure on electricity, increased ground water levels, increased carbon neutrality and popularization of organic products are the evidences of success within the campus.

Major success of Prakruthi is it’s mobilization of the local public and administration to transform the adopted village into a model swatch habitation. It has motivated other villages to approach the college for various collaboration programmes.

Problems encountered and resources required

• High initial investment to establish the solar power plant and paper recycling unit are the major challenges encountered.
• To eliminate the habitual practices against nature is tedious and needs sustained motivation to make it successful.
• If financial support is assured the programme can be strengthened
• It is estimated that it takes four to five years to recover the investment.

For such mega project government support and cooperation are essential. The resources required are manpower, more waste disposing units and equipments for setting up the paper recycling unit and solar power plant.

Objectives of the Practice

• To provide an opportunity for students to learn and practice business and social skills.
• To inculcate skills of marketing.
• To make students apply concepts like advertising, marketing or supply & demand economics.
• To generate revenue for student programs.

The Context

This venture is a small store which supplies students with many fun and trendy novelty items, some are handmade too. This venture of Department of Management Studies aims to ignite creative thinking, entrepreneurial instincts in students.

The Practice

Giftique, the College Gift Store relies on student involvement in all enterprise operations, from merchandising to maintaining the books. Students make key decisions about store operations and decide what the earned income will be spent on. Students market products to their peers and the college provides them with a supportive environment. Entrepreneurial ventures combine skills with hands-on experience rather than book driven business concepts. They know whether they can run a business in the future.

Obstacles faced if any and strategies adapted to over come

The store cannot function full time and limited budget for purchase. Choosing the right kind of merchandize at reasonable price to attract the students

Impact of the practice

Building Entrepreneurial Skills and Community Relationships with Giftique.

Objectives of the Practice

• To conduct extension and reach out programs to serve the society.
• To help and support students in the college who are in need of education upliftment, giving books through book bank, giving some help in learning lessons.
• To empower women especially the rural women with some technical and managerial skills, with the help of lecturers, Ex-students and present students.

The Context

SATHE is the service club. It was inaugurated during 2015-16. This is an association formed with old students and final year students of B.Com. Some retired and working lecturers also became the members of SATHE.

The Practice

Book Bank: The first programme started by the SATHE is a book bank for the merit students who are unable to buy text books. The book bank was started with 15 books donated by Commerce Department lecturers.

Training for competitive exams was organized for the benefit of the outgoing students.

SATHE care and share: It is a bank of care & share where the members can deposit what is not much useful to them but can satisfy the needs of others. Aim of this scheme is to reduce unused waste by sharing to others who are in need of it.

Obstacles faced if any and strategies adapted to over come

Collection and disbursement of things for the needy.

Impact of the practice

Caters to the less privileged sections of the society, reduces waste and leads to wise distribution of usable goods.

Objectives of the Practice

• To train students in leadership traits.
• To train students in problem solving skills
• To develop soft skills and team building in students
• To enable students become moulded into responsible citizens
• To develop students in to holistic individuals

The Context

As today’s students lack suitable soft skills and leadership traits which are mandatory in skilled and unskilled job sectors, the Social Sciences department of the institution has been organizing Leadership Training Programme under the aegis of PAI Foundation, Forum of free enterprises, Mumbai since the past 30 years. This program offers training to students in necessary skills to be transformed into assets to society and to be viable candidates in the job market.

The Practice

The program involves identifying a group of up to 100 students who display promise to be further trained in developing leadership traits through a tailor made course which runs for two days. Training is accorded in various soft skills and enrichment skills such as goal setting, time management, problem solving, innovative thinking, self management, and a host of other traits through motivational lecture, activity based input session, games, competition. These training programs are conducted by eminent National Resource Person

Evidence of success

The program being thrown open to all students from neighboring professional and Degree College enables an enriching experience for the Theresian students. Mutual growth, spread of harmony, growth of competitive spirit, positive vibes, skill orientation are some of the benefits of these camp which has been regular feature on campus since the past 30 years. Nearly all students walk away with awards and prize, all sponsored by PAI Foundation leadership to growth of the “feel good factor” so vital to youth.

Problems encountered and resources required

Expenditure for this program is totally met by the PAI Foundation in collaboration with the Institution

Objectives of the Practice

• Orient the student to the hospital/ institute including policies, programs, departments and procedures.
• Share knowledge and experiences with the student which will help him/her grow professionally.
• To gain knowledge of how to assess, plan, organize, coordinate, implement and evaluate interventions.
• To begin transition from student to professional.

The Context

Internships are offered for undergraduate students to gain valuable practical knowledge or research experience. Through internships students work with a master in that field to learn it first hand and earn valuable knowledge and experience. Students gain and discover opportunities for employment after graduation. There are a variety of benefits a student can gain from participating in an internship. The hands on work experience interns received is invaluable and cannot be obtained in a classroom setting, making this one of the most important benefits of internships. Interns have the opportunity to apply acquired knowledge to real work experiences. In addition to learning the specialized skills of a particular field, transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and computer proficiency are also obtained in an internship, fully preparing interns to enter the workforce upon graduation. Some students begin college with a major or career path in mind, and end up changing their minds later on. Taking on an internship while in college allows students to work in their desired field, helping them decide if the field is right for them. By graduation, students who interned are more likely to feel confident they chose the right degree. One of the most important internship benefits is that college graduates who already have some work experience in the form of an internship stand out to potential employers. Internship experience makes a college graduate more marketable as they usually require less training and can handle more responsibilities. Student can learn a lot about their strengths and weaknesses during an internship. Internships allow for feedback from supervisors and others who are established in the field, and offer a unique learning opportunity that you may not have again as a working adult.

The Practice

As an intern, student will be surrounded by professionals in the industry. Internships are more than just about earning credit, getting a grade, or making money internships provide an opportunity to learn from the people around , ask questions, and impress. Internships allow student to test out specific techniques learned in the classroom before entering the working world. It’s an opportunity to apply what they have learned in a safe environment where mistakes are expected – rather than learn the hard way in their first job out of college.

Evidence of success

Students were able to relate concepts of core subject with practical experience which leads to better understanding. Most of the interns are getting absorbed into the jobs in the same institution.

Problems encountered and resources required

Being girl students accommodation and safety are becoming prime problems of the internship. Availability of core subject related institutions in and around the town is one of the faced by the students. Financial burden is becoming a hindrance in undergoing internship programme.

Objectives of the Practice

In the context of challenging job- market scenario, it has become essential to train students in skills that could lead to sustainable employment. Adequate training in market related and relevant skills help the students of St. Theresa’s to set up small scale units after their education here. The objectives of this programme are

• To create opportunities for the development of talent and scope for self-employment.
• To promote entrepreneurship programmes among women who wish to launch small scale cottage industries.
• Promotion of micro-enterprises through adequate hands-on training in handicrafts, fabric painting, glass painting, bag making, artificial bouquet making, purse making, jewellery designing and making.

The Context

Young women with proper skill development can take up more challenging roles and jobs in building secure futures and a secure economy. Keeping in view this important benefit the centre for Fine Arts has launched a number of training programmes in skills with thrust on handling under the RUSA 2.0 programme.

The Practice

Skill training with skilled Trainers is provided to students of the college and unemployed young women of the neighborhood under the "Centre for Fine Arts " established by the Women Studies Centre under the aegis of the RUSA 2.0 .The program was launched on July 2019 and comprised of a certificate Diploma, and Advanced Diploma. The target students hailed from B.A, B.Com, B.Sc disciplines. Faculty, local unemployed women and housewives were also enabled training through time-slots made available in the daily schedule.

While the students were allotted training schedules in the morning and evening trainees from outside were provided a fixed schedule from 1.45pm - 3.45pm in the afternoon. Faculty members were allotted zero hour for training i.e Saturday afternoons and free sessions during semester exam evenings after college hours. Skilled trainers from agencies were recruited to carry out this program thereby lending it a professional trait. As students could also avail of this programme after college hours total skill training was made a possibility. The intake being limited to 20 trainees per course and time schedule, intensive training was made a possibility .The hours allotted for certificate course in 45 hours, Diploma course is 60 hours and advanced Diploma is 90 hours.

The programme involved training provided in a number of skill oriented courses that guarantee marketing and revenue generation. Suitable collaboration with local markets and wholesale vendors have made this training a money generating venture. Around 11 courses in various skills such as Embroidering, Glass painting, pot decorating, Nail art and thread art, quilling, Mehandi art, paper cutting using sola wood, garland making ,artificial bouquet making, table mats production being some of the crafts taught here.

Based on the success of the programme it has been decided to expand this venture to create more avenues for rural women of the locality to be enabled training in the forth coming years. The Rural Entrepreneur Development programme which is soon to be launched in the college is all set to include these skill training courses.

Evidence of success

The efficacy of the programme is evident in the products displayed and sold in the sales-cum-exhibition held at the end of the programme. Indirect measures used for its evaluation include the positive feedback received about the programme.

• The quality of the products on display received high levels of praise from the public and management proving the success of the programme.
• The proceeds of the sales were commendable and set aside to be used as seed money for future ventures and to generate materials and resources.
• Many women self help groups evinced keen interest in these programmes and are willing to take up future courses.

Problems encountered and resources required

• Scheduling the classes into the time-table was a challenge.
• Marketing of products needs to be done more systematically with collaborations with Governmental and DWKRA outlets.

Objectives of the Practice

Owing to the large number of learners hailing from disadvantaged backgrounds, many students have been found to be poor in communication skills and lack overall abilities to face the challenges of society. It has been deemed a great responsibility on the part of the institution to provide Communication Skills and Soft Skills training as a foundation course. The programme aimed at

• Provision of training in job-oriented soft skills which transform students into employable entities.
• Training in Communicative English language which enables students to face the needs of the job market and to be able to carry out entrepreneurial ventures with greater ease.
• Training in interview skills, public speaking skills, presentation skills and sustained soft skills to facilitate success in facing the rigors of placement drives and future careers.

The Context

In order to make students who hail from rural backgrounds ready to face the job market the academic committee of the institution resolved to offer Communication Skills and Soft Skills module to the I and II degree students as part of the Foundation courses. Initially communication skills and soft skills was offered as a certificate course. However, owing to the results that were encouraging the academic committee proposed that the course should be offered as an embedded course with two credits since 2016-20 for the undergraduate students of all streams. Specially designed course material with thrust in training in oral communication was developed and implemented after ratification in the boards of studies and academic council meets. Preparation of material and implementation of instructional material was undertaken under the ages of the department of English (U.G).

The Practice

The Communication Skills and Soft Skills programme has modules on Effective communication, Dialogues & everyday speech, Public Speaking, Role Play, Interview Skills, soft skills, netiquette and Group discussion. The modules are clubbed with training in the English language lab where on-line teaching is made a possibility. Around 9 trained faculty mostly belonging to the English department were allotted two classes per week each for each group namely the sciences, arts and commerce, vocational and BBA. The two classes comprise of one lab hour and one contact hour. The timetable was set in such a manner that all the I year and II year comprising of 22 batches (sciences) and 12 batches (Arts and Commerce) 4 batches comprising the vocational and management studies groups are offered this course.

In 2016-2017, academic year a communication skills programme had been launched under the auspices of the APSHE. This programme lay thrust on on-line mode of teaching with an end semester exam. However gradually this course was widened to cover soft skills training through experiential learning modules through the inclusion of skits, role play, mock sessions, seminars, use of videos, audio clippings and live demonstrations. The end semester examination comprised of a practical examination for 50 marks with 2 credits being allotted for a successful completion of the programme.

Participate learning, interactive mode of activities and experiential learning have been the techniques used to impart these essential skills for students to be able to communicate with confidence in real life situations created in the classrooms. Course material Fluency I for semester II, Fluency II for semester III, Fluency III for semester IV have been generated and developed comprising of activity based learning with necessary inputs. The whole programme is designed for 30 sessions per semester.

Evidence of success

The success of the programme is evident in the confidence levels that are increased in students in the use of English as a mode of communication.

• Students have shown better performance in campus drives after this foundation course has been introduced.
• Increased confidence levels have been observed in the performance of the students at various seminars, conferences and competitions according to feedback and surveys
• Feedback obtained from parents and prospective employees has been positive about the usefulness of the programme.
• Students themselves have been extremely satisfied and have stated that this programme has enabled them to speak with confidence in English in various situations.
• Nearly 2800 students of the undergraduate programmes have benefited from this programme.
• The practical examinations conducted at the end of the programme give ample scope to list generation learners to train in oral skills which is a crucial part of the testing pattern.
• Students are trained by faculty who serve as facilitators in developing confidence, proper body language, necessary soft skills and vibrant communication skills.

Problems encountered and resources required

• Due to the shortage of trainers, the batch-size could not be reduced to an ideal number of 20-23. Larger groups of 40-50 meant that training could not be optimal.
• Owing to restrictions in time slots, wider use of the language labs was a problem.
• Fixation of classes in the time-table created clashes and co-ordination issues.
• Setting up of a separate training space or halls for such activities with enhanced modern equipment would be a boon to learners.
• Owing to limited time per session not all students should be trained optimally.

Objectives of the Practice

To promote safe vegetable production and secure organic food supply and to prepare Vermi-compost, Ghanajeevamrutham and Neem decoction for cultivation.

The Context

Organic kitchen garden was inaugurated to produce healthy organic vegetables. 1/2 acre land was allotted in the college which was divided into blocks for vegetables like Brinjal, Tomato, Chilli, Beans.

The Practice

With “Be trained to be paid” outlook several verities of medicinal plants, indoor plants, and some rare plant saplings were sold to the staff and students with nominal prices. Plant exhibition was organized as a part of start-up initiative to promote greenery and herbal medicines for primary health care needs.

Evidence of Success

With the enhancement of environmental performance, fulfillment of compliance obligations, achievement of environmental objectives our college is certified with ISO 14001:2015 (whole or in part to systematically improve environmental management) by HYM International Certifications Pvt.Ltd. and students with business ideas.

Problems Encountered and Resources Required

As organic farms have lower yields compared to conventional farms challenges faced while marketing and converting it to business.

Notes

Use of crop rotations, organic residues and nutrients produced on the farm are recycled back to the soil for better results.

Objectives of the Practice

It aims at training faculty and students in psychosocial and counseling skills, promoting periodic health checks, immunization drives and spreading awareness.

The Context

In order to combat the spread of COVID-19, the institution believes the faculty and students can play a vital role through programmes and activities that are pivotal in educating, preventing and orientating society.

The Practice

To assist the affected people of Eluru, special drives are offered, including counseling sessions, webinars, and trips. As part of the agenda, medicines and provisions were distributed to the economically disadvantaged victims of Covid-19. A transparent and participatory approach was used to monitor students' involvement in rehabilitative measures.

Evidence of Success

Embracing the college motto of creating integrated, empowered women leaders with commitment, excellence, pro-activeness and innovation, this program is designed to help and support COVID victims and their families with medical support, health and sanitation assistance, food and nutrition counseling, psychological support, and social service assistance.

Problems Encountered and Resources Required

This hub has been hampered by frequent lockdowns. With the generosity of the management, Rapid and PCR test samples were collected from 858 students and staff and periodical Vaccination drives were organised.

Notes

The program started with sanitization and safety measures and was successful with a Two day COVID test & Vaccination camp in association with Medical and Health Department support. College is awarded byISOfor best maintenance of required "Hygiene & Safety". Programs related to knowledge extension were organized – Workshops, Webinars, Internships and Skill Development. Students are transformed into individuals who became custodians of Social Responsibility, channels of Knowledge extension and lights of opportunities.

Objectives of the Practice

• It aims at collaborating with various educational agencies abroad and in India
• To promote students and faculty exchange programmes.

The Context

• Professional skills to pursue careers and studies abroad.
• To facilitate collaborative research projects with universities abroad.
• To provide training in TOEFL, GRE, IELTS and CAT to seek admissions in universities overseas.

The Practice

St.Theresa’s Centre for International Studies launched in January2017 provides students of the home college and students fromother non – professional and professional colleges avenues to pursue their studies overseas.Programme is designed to enrichexperience and help to develop the foundations of knowledge and cooperation needed for future activities.

Evidence of success

The Staff and student Academic Exchange programme was organised for research support and was aimed at sharing knowledge and experiences, facilitating understanding and building trust among partners. The Programme helped to build professional networks and good relationships across the partner organizations.

• International student and faculty exchange programme to Bangkok, Thailand from 13th to 20th Nov, 2019.
• Academic Exchange Programme/Educational Tour to Malaysia 7thto 11thJanuary, 2020.

Problems encountered and resources required

The student transition was significantly harder than anticipated, but the learning curve is fast. The three challenges identified were to be prepared when applying, transitioning to, and living in a new country.

Notes

To integrate a variety of disciplinary approaches that provide students with a strong understanding of the diversity, interdependence, and complexity of the world community.

Objectives of the Practice

We in collaboration with ALS are committed to transform the students to face not only the competitive examinations but also succeed brilliantly modelling their respective career paths and to grow up to be extra-ordinary citizens of the world.

The Context

Students who are ready to integrate their experiences and varied backgrounds with our top-notch educational programme ALS.

The Practice

The idea of producing a new breed of civil servants and we have seen the lives of innumerable rural girls facing inconvenience… as a vision to create integrated women leaders to drive India to new heights.
We want studentsto question, challenge and think creatively, and prepare themselves to take on new concepts and ideas.

Evidence of success

Apart from 20 student appeared for Prelims, 30 students of different streams qualified PGCET with 1-10 Ranks, 15 faculty qualified APRCET and 1 faculty qualified in UGCNET.

For most candidates, passing the exam on the first try is a tedious task. This is not one of those tests that can be passed with half attempts or with distractions.

Notes:

While pursuing a full-time career or studying regular academics, applicants tend to become impatient to cope with the extensive UPSC exam curriculum and take the exam.

Objectives of the Practice

We in collaboration with ALS are committed to transform the students to face not only the competitive examinations but also succeed brilliantly modelling their respective career paths and to grow up to be extra-ordinary citizens of the world.

The Context

Students who are ready to integrate their experiences and varied backgrounds with our top-notch educational programme ALS.

The Practice

The idea of producing a new breed of civil servants and we have seen the lives of innumerable rural girls facing inconvenience… as a vision to create integrated women leaders to drive India to new heights.
We want studentsto question, challenge and think creatively, and prepare themselves to take on new concepts and ideas.

Evidence of success

Apart from 20 student appeared for Prelims, 30 students of different streams qualified PGCET with 1-10 Ranks, 15 faculty qualified APRCET and 1 faculty qualified in UGCNET.

For most candidates, passing the exam on the first try is a tedious task. This is not one of those tests that can be passed with half attempts or with distractions.

Notes:

While pursuing a full-time career or studying regular academics, applicants tend to become impatient to cope with the extensive UPSC exam curriculum and take the exam.

Objectives of the Practice

• Theresian Innovation & Entrepreneurial hub, established in collaboration with IIC, serves as a dynamic center for fostering creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit among students.

The Context

Theresian Innovation & Entrepreneurial hub with IIC with the aim of researching and addressing the various challenges present within Eluru region, ultimately offering practical and effective solutions to enhance the local ecosystem.

The Practice

To delve deeply into the prevalent challenges within the Eluru region, and to provide sustainable and impactful solutions that contribute towards the advancement of the local eco-system. Its primary focus is to empower individuals through training programs that not only enhance their skills but also provide avenues for sustainable employment opportunities.

Evidence of success

In a heartwarming effort to address malnutrition issues, College partnered with MAARPU TRUST to distribute essential protein powder to undernourished children residing in Vijayawada District. This initiative supported the health and well-being of disadvantaged members of the community by ensuring they receive vital nutrients for their proper growth and development.

Problems encountered and resources required

This initiative particularly targeted the challenges faced by tribal mothers, who often lack access to proper education and resources to ensure their children receive adequate nutrition.

Note

This initiative was designed with a specific focus on addressing the nutritional requirements of malnourished children. The engagement of students in collaborating with and educating these tribal mothers reflected their enthusiasm and commitment to the cause.The students primary challenge was to overcome the limited educational and resource access experienced by tribal mothers, which in turn impacted their ability to provide adequate nutrition for their children.

Objectives of the Practice

Theresian Helping Hands, wholeheartedly committed to offering support, aid, and essential resources to individuals facing difficulties, challenges within the student community, demonstrating unwavering dedication and strong sense of community service.

The Practice

Theresian Helping Hands carefully evaluated and confirmed 10 students 41,000/-based on their requirements before generously supporting them with donations specifically earmarked for covering their fees. Each student received personal attention and tailored assistance ensuring their educational needs with compassion.

Problems encountered and resources required

the concept is driven by a profound sense of empathy, stands as a pillar of unwavering support for students by student and to students navigating financial hardship. Through the provision of vital resources and compassionate aid, they exemplify their enduring commitment to fostering a strong community bond and uplifting those in need with their relentless dedication to service.