Two-Day Skill Development Camp for Visually Challenged Held at Mar Thoma College, Tiruvalla

The Kerala Federation of the Blind (KFB), Pathanamthitta District Unit, in collaboration with Mar Thoma College, Tiruvalla, organized a two-day Skill and Mobility Training Camp titled “Pathfinder” on May 2nd and 3rd, 2025, at the college campus. The program aimed to empower visually challenged individuals with essential skills to promote self-reliance, independence, and confidence.
The camp was inaugurated on May 2nd with a flag hoisting ceremony at 9:45 AM by Mr. Jipu P Skaria, President of the KFB District Unit. The official inauguration followed at 10:00 AM, with Adv. Mathew T Thomas, MLA, serving as the chief guest. In his address, he praised the college and KFB for their collaborative efforts in fostering inclusivity and creating meaningful opportunities for the differently-abled.
The event saw the presence and support of prominent dignitaries including Dr. Mathew Varkey T.K., Principal of Mar Thoma College, Dr. I. John Berlin (Coordinator, ED Club), Dr. Neema Susan Mathews (Coordinator, Centre for Social Action), Mr. Abdhul Hakeem K.M. (State President, KFB), Mr. Lal G. Kumar (Vice President, KFB), Mr. Rajesh A. R. (Secretary, KFB), and Mr. Abubakkar A.
The camp featured hands-on training sessions, including LED light assembling led by Dr. I. John Berlin, and paper pen, bag, and file making conducted by Mrs. Shalu Varghese. These practical sessions aimed at imparting vocational skills that align with real-world needs.
The program was jointly powered by the Entrepreneurship Development (ED) Club, NCC Unit, Centre for Social Action, and the Department of Physics of Mar Thoma College. Notably, the event was aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, underscoring the institution’s commitment to inclusive education and community service.
Pathfinder was widely appreciated by participants and stands as a testament to Mar Thoma College’s dedication to social responsibility, empowerment, and holistic development