Media Release

Mangaluru, Jun 20: Ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for the lady studentsis one of the objectives of St Aloysius PU College, a mission that is taken up enthusiastically by the women’s forum. With the aim of promoting the well-being of the lady students of I PUC, and preparing them for the new journey of learning, growth and empowerment that they have embarked upon in this College, orientation programmes were organized, separately for the commerce and arts and science students by the forum. The resource person for the sessions was Jennifer Carlo, counselling psychologist and associate professor in clinical psychology at Yenepoya School of Allied Health Sciences.

Jennifer Carlo began her session by congratulating the students for taking the first step towards transition to adulthood successfully and urging them to reflect on whether it is enough to grow chronologically. Emphasizing on how growing into adulthood necessitates the awareness that ‘I Matter’, Carlo discussed how nurturing holistic well-being requires setting boundaries. She interacted with the students as she briefly described what the feeling of ones boundaries being overstepped is; how a discomfort can grow into fear and further lead to developing phobias and what challenges one may face when setting boundaries.

The resource person further gave a detailed explanation on the different boundaries one ought to set in order to ensure emotional, physical, social and psychological well-being. As she explicated what physical, emotional, intellectual, digital and time boundaries are, Carlo stressed on the importance of setting digital boundaries in the present times when young people spend most of their leisure time online. She illustrated the concept of ‘sextortion’ through case studies, alerting the students about indiscriminate online posting and getting into relationships recklessly. She went on to explain the consequences of not setting physical or digital boundaries and how one should be clear of ones limits, communicate the same assertively, be mindful and make use of tech tools to keep oneself protected.

Further in her discussion, Jennifer advised the students on how to build boundaries. She suggested that they be aware of their stress triggers and values; stay consistent with their limits; express needs assertively and prioritize self-care and self – reflection. She also offered tips on how to prevent sextortion such as not to post anything personal, to use privacy settings, and to keep web cameras covered.

In conclusion, Jennifer Carlo said that we get to live this life only once and so, we must stay safe. Students must be committed to their roots, upbringing, parents and dreams. She also gave them a mantra that would help them in their journey towards empowerment- “Yes, I matter. I am Important’.

In her brief address, the vice-principal of commerce and arts Vilma Fernandes stressed on a few particulars that the lady students should take care of when in the camp, including washroom etiquette, dress code and use of infirmaries. She also informed them about the POCSO Act and the Grievance Cells in the college that they can seek help from.

While Anisha Moras welcomed the gathering and introduced the chief guest, Joshma Lobo proposed the vote of thanks.

The orientation session was successful in instructing the lady students on how they can develop an awareness of their needs and values, set boundaries that protect themselves from harm, interact mindfully and grow into empowered young women.