Department of Computer Science and Placement Cell inaugurated Centre of Excellence for Youth Empowerment sponsored by Honeywell and implemented by ICT Academy on 31 August 2023 at the SJM Hall of the college, marked a significant stride towards empowering youth. Mr Vishnu Prasad, the State Head of the ICT Academy, conveyed that the Youth Empowerment Unit of St Philomena College was among the 11 exclusive units established across the State. He explained that the curriculum was designed after comprehensive discussions with prominent IT companies, ensuring its alignment with industry demands. The youth empowerment initiative introduces a range of courses, seamlessly integrated into the academic journey of the students. Upon enrolment, profiles of the students are shared directly with potential employers, streamlining the job placement process, he said.

Rev Dr Antony Prakash Monteiro, Principal of the College emphasized the symbiotic relationship between skill development and education, asserting that a value-based education enriches the learning experience.

Speaking about the contemporary job market, the Campus Director Rev Fr Stany Pinto highlighted the practical relevance of such empowerment programs in today’s competitive scenerio. The integration of skill-focused courses with traditional education opens numerous employment avenues. Mr Sony Ponnoose, Associate – Project Implementation of ICT Academy, Mr Vignesh Shetty, Relationship Manager D K District, trainers Mr Venkataramana and Mr A. J Anand of ICT Academy and Institution Coordinator Mr Abhishek Suvarna graced the occasion.

 Rev Fr Lawrence Mascarenhas, presiding over the inaugural function of the Centre of Excellence for Youth Empowerment at Philomena College, highlighted the importance of nurturing students to become not only proficient scholars but also responsible citizens. He underscored the need for instilling core values in every student, emphasizing the holistic development of individuals.

The event commenced with an invocation of God’s by Disha. Mr Vinay Chandra, the Dean of the Department of Computer Science, extended a warm welcome. Dr Radha Krishna Gowda, the College Placement Cell Officer proposed vote of thanks. Assistant Professor Geeta Poornima compered the program. Vice Principal Dr A.P. Radhakrishna, PRO of the College Bharathi S Rai and and all the esteemed faculty members of the Department of Computer Science were graciously present on the occasion.