Kochi colleges spur art, charity and honesty too

Kochi: City colleges are busy staging their annual events as another academic year is set to conclude in a few months. They are also in the forefront of philanthropic activities conducted through various platforms. For instance, the Sacred Heart College, Thevara, is now ploughing the proceeds from its 'honesty shop' for charity.

Maharaja's College, Ernakulam, organised its arts fest and Union Day over the last few days. Its students lent expression to their talents, opinions and views without fear at the event, which was named after the play 'Kithab.'

The arts fest was held from December 17 to 19 at three venues and students competed against each other in various literary and cultural events.

Over nearly a century, Maharaja's College has produced immense talents in various spheres – social, political, cultural and literary. It is expected that more talents will bloom with the latest edition of the art festival.

The college Union Day, held before the arts fest, was dedicated to slain student leader Abhimanyu.

Triumph of honesty

The honesty shop was set up at the Sacred Heart College in 2016. It is a set-up where students are left to pick stationery items on their own and drop the money in a box without anyone to monitor. Student development officer Thomas had mooted the idea and upon its launch the shop was managed by the Jesus Youth Wing under the guidance of Fr Sabu Thomas of the Department of English. Now, the profits from the unique undertaking are being utilised for the benefit of the needy.

The honesty shop has been a success though many were cynical about such a venture initially. It is testimony to the integrity of the young.