Objectives of the Practice

• To create a corpus fund in the name of the TAA
• To encourage merit students of BPL (Below Poverty Line) families
• To identify deserving merit students
• To award snehitha scholarships to economically poor merit students
• To keep alive the motto of the college “Thamasoma Jyothorgamaya”

The Context

Low economic status of the most of the students of the college triggered the thought of the members of TAA (Theresian Alumnae Association) of the college to raise corpus fund used to support the students who are financially backward but academically good. TAA planned a fund raising programme in the name of ‘SNEHITHA’ and planned a mega cultural event with the eminent members of TAA who are well placed in cinema and TV field. This thought of supporting the economically poor students gave shape to the programme ‘Snehitha’ scholarships programme.

The Practice

SNEHITHA is basically a Theresian Alumnae Association programme and was started as part of the diamond jubilee celebrations of the college. A permanent corpus fund was created for the college through organizing a mega cultural event and through contribution from the alumni. The interest of the corpus fund created is used for disbursing snehitha scholarships. In the academic year 2013-2014 twenty three students were selected after a very thorough scrutiny on the basis of marks obtained and financial status of the student. Students who belong to BPL families and who do not get any other scholarships are identified on the basis of academic excellence. Three year UG course and 2 year PG course students selected will receive a sum of Rs. 5000/- each for the candidate to complete the studies without any problem. Most of the students are first generation learners with very low socio economic status but good in academics. SNEHITHA brings new light in their lives and immense joy to the members of TAA, management and parents.

Obstacles faced if any and strategies adapted to over come

There are too many applicants for the scholarships and the fund is limited. TAA had to formulate well planned criteria for selecting the deserving students.

Impact of the practice

SNEHITHA brought hope and confidence among the deserving meritorious students. It is a way of developing hope for the first generation learners. TAA feels very happy and fortunate to educate girl students. It is way of empowering girls to become self sufficient. It is an opportunity for the alumnae members to serve their almamater in a befitting manner.