News : P. Archibald Furtado Photographs: Vishwas Studios, Barkur.
Barkur, January 4th, 2023 - In a commendable initiative, Rotary Club Barkur brought together students from nearby high schools with Rotary Interact units for a purposeful workshop at NJC Barkur. The focus of the event was to address exam anxieties and guide students on life after SSLC.
On a somewhat dull morning with rare winter rain, a convoy of buses carrying Class X students and their caretakers from different high schools arrived at NJC Barkur. Despite the weather, the students eagerly utilized the time before the scheduled 10.00 am stage program to explore the Computer and Science Laboratories, Library, and Indoor Games facilities. The renovated Junior College impressed the young minds with its modern amenities.
At 10.00 am, the formal program commenced with an invocation seeking Almighty Lord's blessings. Prof U Kottraswamy, the Principal, extended a warm welcome to the guests, including Rotarians, management, and resource personnel. Mr Gopala Naik, the Correspondent, presented roses to dignitaries on the dais.
The President of the Barkurian Educational Society, B Shantarama Shetty, ceremoniously lit the traditional oil lamp, officially inaugurating the program. He urged the representatives from nearby high schools to make the most of this educational opportunity.
In his keynote address, Mr Ashok Kumar Shetty, the Secretary of BES, lauded Rotary for their commitment to youth and for organizing this impactful workshop. He also acknowledged the contributions of NHS Old Students Associations and the Platinum Jubilee Celebrations Committee in refurbishing the National Campus.
A moment of pride filled the venue as Mr Ashok Kumar, an old student and Barkur native, was honored for receiving the Chief Minister's Gold Medal for his courageous service as a Fireman. Rotary Barkur's Secretary provided a brief introduction, and Ashok Kumar expressed his gratitude for the recognition.
The Chief Guest, Rotarian Mr Alwyn Quadrus, Assistant Governor of the Udupi region, emphasized the importance of addressing exam stress and providing guidance for choosing careers at this crucial stage.
Mr S Karunakar Shetty, President of the Old Students Association, pledged ongoing support for such programs, thrilled to see over 200 SSLC students participating in the workshop.
Rotarian Seetaram S, President of Rotary Barkur, shared his commitment to community service, highlighting Rotary's role in supporting local students. The event was attended by several Rotary office bearers and members.
The workshop, meticulously handled by Mr Maruti, a High School Kannada teacher, continued with a vote of thanks from Mrs Hemavathy PS, Head Mistress of the High School Section.
The highlight of the day featured Dr Robert Clive, a seasoned trainer and professor from Crossland College Brahmavar, who provided valuable insights on facing exam anxiety. The event concluded with a motivating session by Mr Kishore Kumar Vaklady, a well-known motivator and trainer for adolescents.
The positive feedback received from participants prompted the organizers to commit to hosting such seminars regularly, ensuring continued support for SSLC students in their academic journey.
