Media Release

Mangaluru, Jan 14: The annual NSS special camp of St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) was held at St Thomas Aided Higher Primary School, Cheloor, from December 28, 2025, to January 3, where 70 volunteers actively widened the school ground and established a vegetable garden under the able leadership the programme coordinators of Carrol Sharel Pereira, Binni Chan, Sharel Cutinha and Vinay K.

Beyond physical labour, the students gained specialised knowledge through a workshop on apiculture (beekeeping) conducted by Fr Michael D’Silva and an insightful session on cybercrime awareness led by Maruthi, PSI of the Bantwal police station.

The educational experience was further enriched by a field visit to the Varaha Roopa Farms, where volunteers gained hands-on experience in traditional and modern agricultural techniques.

On New Year’s Eve, the volunteers shared festive joy with the school children before move to the St Thomas Church, Amembal outdoor stage for a grand cultural evening. This public performance featured the renowned talent of Golden Book of World Records holder Remona Evette Pereira, alongside a series of impactful street plays, dances, and mono-acts by the students.

The camp’s significance was highlighted by the visit of the vice chancellor and the registrar of St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), who commended the volunteers for their selfless contribution to rural infrastructure. Throughout the week, the students were further inspired by visits from former NSS programme officers and alumni who returned to share their expertise and encourage the current batch. These interactions with university leadership and seasoned mentors created a strong sense of community and purpose among the participants.

By combining community service, professional workshops, and cultural exchange, the camp successfully addressed the holistic development of the volunteers while benefiting the Cheloor community.