Training Session for Skill Development Executives Inaugurated

Report by Jude Gerald Lopez

7th May 2013

The twenty one day training programme at Sacred Heart College, Thevara for the Skill Development Executives (SDE) of the state sponsored Additional Skill Acquisition Programme (ASAP) was inaugurated today. The initiative which is a part of the Kerala State Development Project aims to help students attain employable resource status at the end of their Vocational Higher Secondary or Under Graduate programmes. In this highly competitive age the programme focuses on imparting a student-centered study system through which one can absorb a sophisticated set of soft skills and hence be better equipped to meet the needs of various careers. Students from various parts of Kerala who were selected for the training were present. The training programme is jointly organized by the English Department and Computer Department of the college. 

Delegates and students at the venue.

The inaugural function was held at 9am in which the college Principal Rev. Fr. Prasant Palackappillil, The Head of the English Department Prof. John Francis and Dr. Jaikiran, ASAP Representative were present. Prof. John Francis delivered a passionate and moving welcome address in which he urged the students present to make maximum use of this opportunity. “Once this programme is done you should walk out with something substantial” he said. 

 The Principal expressed his joy and gratitude to the government who has sponsored the ASAP programme during the presidential address. Learn as soon as possible he added hinting at the programme’s title ASAP. “Such initiatives should impart two important things; a good set of skills and a good attitude” he said and went on to highlight the importance of the right kind of attitude in life.

Dr. Jaikiran delivered the inaugural address and officially inaugurated the training sessions. “These 21 days will change your life” he said as he addressed an eager student crowd. He also added that we as a state have a lot to be proud in relation to ASAP because it was in Kerala that the initiative gained momentum and progressed quite effectively and efficiently. “This programme is a social experiment in the state and the whole nation is watching us” he said.  He ended his speech on an inspiring note as he advised the students “Think that you can do it and you will do it.”

Principal, Prasant Palackappillil addresses the gathering

The symbolic lighting of the lamp ceremony was also conducted. In which the Pricipal Fr. Prasanth Palackappillil, The Head of the English department Prof. John Francis and Dr. Jaikiran took part in. Prof. Shoba Liz John, NSS Programme Coordinator delivered the Vote of Thanks. The programme consists of 6-day weeks in which the students will receive 12 hour sessions every day.