SJB College of Education recently conducted a successful five-day residential community living camp, “Swasthya,” held from January 6th to 10th, 2025. This camp, a key component of the two-year B.Ed. curriculum, aimed to cultivate social responsibility, instill strong moral and cultural values, and enhance personal and social skills among the student teachers. The camp featured a rich tapestry of activities, seamlessly blending educational sessions with hands-on experiences and vibrant cultural events.
Day 1 (6/01/25, Monday): From Chaos to Calm
The camp began with registration, followed by an inauguration ceremony presided over by Principal Dr. (Fr.) Jogimon George. The inaugural address was delivered by Mr. Anish Mohan, a productivity empowerment coach, setting the tone for the week. Subsequent sessions were led by Mr. Anish Mohan and Mr. Philipson J Medayil, a teacher from St. Peter’s Higher Secondary School, Kurumpanadam. The day culminated in a cultural program.
Day 2 (7/01/25, Tuesday): Fostering Compassion
The second day centered on cultivating compassion, featuring a Yoga session led by Dr. Nelson Chackala, founder of Yogadeeksha Trust, who emphasized the importance of mindfulness and well-being. The morning session was led by Mr. Josgy Palathinkal, Teacher at St. Teresa’s LP School, Vazhappally. Following this session, the participants embarked on a social visit to LSDP Kunnamthanam.
Day 3 (8/01/25, Wednesday): Awakening to Now
Dr. Aravind K, Assistant Professor of Chemistry at SB College, Changanassery, led a session on the third day. Participants also engaged in flower garden making and a session with Fr. Jison Paul Vengasserry, Vicar of St. Rita’s Syro Malabar Church, Thakazhy. The day concluded with outdoor games and cultural programmes.
Day 4 (9/01/25, Thursday): Serenity in Simplicity
The fourth day focused on achieving serenity through simplicity. The morning included a session by Dr. Joseph Antony, Director of Mark and Phil Associates, Alappuzha. Afterward, participants engaged in community service at Nirmalapuram. The afternoon included games and a “Nature Walk” combined with a mission forest cleaning activity, with Mr. Robin Martin, Deputy Range Forest Officer, as the chief guest. The evening featured a cultural program, and a campfire.
Day 5 (10/01/25, Friday): Presence Over Perfection
The final day emphasized the importance of presence and self-acceptance. Mr. Anoopkumar K. V., Director of Active Minds Counselling Centre, led sessions focusing on mental well-being and stress management. The day also included Zumba and an experience-sharing session.
Valedictory Function and Best Camper Award
The valedictory function was inaugurated by Mrs. Rajamma Raveendran, Panchayat President of Nedumkunnam. During the ceremony, Ms. Athira Krishnan was recognized for her outstanding participation and contributions throughout the camp and was awarded the title of “Best Camper.”
Throughout the camp, participants engaged in a variety of enriching activities, including:
The camp coordinators, Mrs. Jelita Joseph and Mr. Santhosh Thomas, along with camp leader Mr. Xavy Roy and other committee members, ensured the smooth execution of the event. The camp successfully achieved its objectives of developing well-rounded individuals and fostering a strong sense of community among the student teachers. The organizers expressed their hope that the camp would leave a lasting positive impact on the participants and contribute significantly to their professional development.
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