The Department of Biotechnology, Sree Sankara College, Kalady, organized a student extension programme titled “Karuthalonam” on 4 September 2024, celebrating the festival of Onam with a spirit of compassion, inclusion, and social responsibility.

As part of the initiative, undergraduate students of the department, accompanied by faculty members Smt. Sujayalakshmi K. V. (Head of the Department) and Dr. Renjusha Menon, visited Snehasadan, a school for intellectually challenged students at Pothiyakkara. The visit aimed to share the joy of Onam with the children while fostering empathy and meaningful community engagement among students.

The programme featured a variety of interactive and cultural activities, including games, songs, and dance performances, creating a joyful and festive atmosphere. The students also spent quality time engaging with the children through friendly interactions, which brought smiles and excitement to all participants. As a gesture of care and affection, the team contributed a small amount as a token of love.

Karuthalonam was thoughtfully designed not only to celebrate the cultural essence of Onam but also to instill values of compassion, kindness, and social responsibility in students. The experience enabled participants to connect on an emotional level, helping them understand the importance of empathy, inclusiveness, and community service.

Overall, the programme served as a meaningful and transformative experience, enriching both the students and the children. Karuthalonam truly reflected the essence of Onam—unity, sharing, and togetherness—while nurturing socially responsible and emotionally aware individuals.