SDM College NSS Camp Inspires Youth to Connect with Communities and Embrace Digital Literacy
Ujire, Dec 05, 2024: “As the name suggests, the National Service Scheme (NSS) is about immersing ourselves in service. When I think of NSS, the first thing that comes to mind is the SDM College NSS unit. My association with the NSS units of SDM College has always been heartfelt,” said Mohan Kumar, owner of Lakshmi Industries and convener of the Baduku Kattona Banni team, during the inauguration of the annual NSS special camp of SDM College, Ujire.
The week-long camp for the year 2024-25, themed ‘Youth for My Bharat – Youth for Digital Literacy’, was launched today at the Government Higher Primary School, Indabettu (Kallaje), Bangady.
Addressing the gathering, Mohan Kumar emphasized, “Education alone is not enough; values are equally essential. Only with values can one achieve success in life. NSS instills confidence and life skills in students. The SDM College NSS units have collaborated with our team on numerous community-centric initiatives. I hope the collaboration continues for the betterment of society.”
Dr. Shaleep Kumari, Administrative Officer of SDM College, unveiled the camp’s poster and noted the importance of the NSS in fostering connections and friendships. “The NSS prepares students to integrate with society, understand the problems of rural communities, and seek solutions. It strengthens relationships and creates lifelong friendships,” she said.
Kishore Kumar, President of the Belthangady Primary School Teachers and Parents Association, recalled his NSS camp experiences, stating, “The lessons learned outside textbooks are life lessons. NSS equips students with the courage to face life’s challenges. I congratulate the NSS unit for earning national and state-level recognition.”
Deepa Kiran Kumar Shetty, headmistress of the host school, expressed joy at the camp’s festive atmosphere. “Seven years ago, this school hosted a similar camp by SDM College, and the villagers cherished the experience. We are delighted to host it again with the support of various organizations.”
She highlighted the importance of experiential knowledge: “Knowledge is not confined to books. Experiences gained by interacting with people also constitute learning. However, knowledge should never foster arrogance. It should shine like a diamond, always guiding us.”
Diwakar Patwardhan, head of the accounts department at SDM College, reminisced about how NSS was once seen as a challenging endeavor for students. “In our college days, students hesitated to join NSS due to the hard work and responsibilities involved. But today, students voluntarily participate, which is commendable.”
Presiding over the event, Principal Dr. B.A. Kumar Hegde remarked that mere classroom education does not make a student complete. “Activities like NSS camps shape students into well-rounded individuals,” he said, thanking the school, villagers, and dignitaries for their support.
Dr. Hegde shared an inspiring story of a girl from Bengaluru named Lakshmi, who, despite battling cancer, attended an NSS camp at Bhandarkar College, Kundapur, 50 years ago, driven by her desire to experience rural life.
At the event, the poster for a health camp scheduled for Dec. 8 was also released.
Former NSS program officer Dr. Lakshminarayana K.S., faculty members Dr. Gannaraj K., Nataraj H., Bhagyashree, Dikshith Rai, and Abhilash K.S., along with Indabettu School Development and Monitoring Committee President Anand Koppadakodi, camp reception committee chair Arun Kumar Kallaje, camp officers Shruti Manakekar and Amit Kumar, and progressive farmer Inas Monis, were present.
Dr. Mahesh Kumar Shetty H., NSS Program Officer, welcomed the gathering and proposed the vote of thanks. Co-officer Prof. Deepa R.P. also expressed gratitude. NSS volunteers Shweta K.G. and Varsha V. compered the program.
