Beyond the Classroom : SIP Chronicles

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• FOURTEEN DAYS, COUNTLESS LESSONSBEYOND THE CLASSROOM: SIP CHRONICLES
• THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE STORIES - PGDM BATCH 34Behind every reflection in this magazine is a student who stepped beyond the classroom, experienced something new, and returned with a story to tell. Together, these stories capture the people, places, challenges, and moments that made our Social Immersion Programme truly memorable.
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• PREFACEEvery year, when our PGDM students step out of the classroom and into the Social Immersion Programme, I am reminded that the most enduring lessons of a management education are rarely learnt from a textbook. The Social Immersion Programme has, since its inception, asked our students to step outside into the lives of those our systems too often forget, like the elderly without family, children without stable homes, and communities without easy access to water, healthcare, or opportunity. What they bring back is not merely a set of observations for an academic requirement, but a deepened sense of responsibility. This edition of our student magazine brings together reflections from Batch 34's fortnight-long immersion across institutions in Kerala and beyond: Santhwanam in Pathanamthitta, SOS Youth Home in Aluva, House of Providence, LifeCare Movement Society in Guruvayoor, Ashwasa Bhavan in Kochi, Sai Gramam, and Karunalayam, among others.
• PREFACE“ Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love.” — Mother Teresa Education is not limited to the acquisition of knowledge, but it encourages individuals to understand humanity and society in deeper way. Life experiences beyond the classroom that expose students to understand the real life contexts and which contribute significantly to achieving a more holistic education. It is with this realization that our students completed their internships in various NGOs and social service institutions. This journey through old age homes, orphanages, patient care centers, hospital support service centers, and other social welfare institutions became an opportunity for the students to get to know the different facets of society.
• EDITORIAL NOTE"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others"- Mahatma Gandhi This quote is the thread that ties every article in this magazine together. As future managers, PGDM students, and above all, human beings, our two-week Social Immersion Programme left an imprint far deeper than any classroom could. It opened our eyes to social realities we may never have encountered otherwise, and reminded us that true learning often begins where comfort ends. Empathy, patience, and a quiet, deeper understanding of ourselves run through every page of this magazine. We return from this experience not just as students, but as people more rooted in compassion and more hopeful about the difference we can make. It was an honour to edit and put this magazine together with my team, and I hope it leaves you, the reader, a little more inspired to go out and serve. Editor: Safna V K "The heart understands what books cannot explain." There are lessons that come from books, and there are lessons that come from life. During these fourteen days, we walked into communities, met people from different walks of life, and learned to see the world with greater understanding. The pages that follow are not merely records of an academic programme; they are reflections of human encounters that left a lasting impression. If education helps us become wiser, experiences such as these help us become more humane. In that spirit, we present this collection of journeys, memories, and learning. Editor: Oommen Thomas
• THE ONES WHO CAME BACKOn bringing children back to school — and what it actually takes By Sagar Joy | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4078
• SHE HADN'T SEEN HER SON IN YEARS. THEN HE CALLEDAt a quiet old age home in Omalloor, a student intern witnesses the ordinary miracle of a relationship reclaimed, one small phone call at a time. By Sharon Shibu | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4090 | February 2026
• LEARNING FROM THE GROUND: MY SIP EXPERIENCEBy Shriya R Nair | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4112 | February 2026 What does real change in society actually look like?
• MIRACLES ARE ALL AROUND USBy Safna V. K. | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4170 | February 2026 What happens when a community comes together and decides to make miracles happen?
• SHE HELD MY HAND FOR TWENTY MINUTES AND SAID EVERYTHINGI went to the old age home with a checklist. Nobody was looking at my checklist. By Sana Fathima PGDM Batch 34, FK-4124
• A JOURNEY BEYOND BOOKSThis journey may have been short, but the impact it created will stay with me for a long time. By ANJALY JAYKUMAR | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4100 | February 2026 GROWING THROUGH EXPERIENCE
• WHISPERS OF TIMEBy DIYA BENNY | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4137 | February 2026 A moment of joy and human connection
• THE FACES AND STORIES I WON’T FORGETBy MARIA NAVIN MAZHUVANCHERRY | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4144 | February 2026 When I first started my Social Immersion Program at SOS Children's Village in Kochi, I saw it as yet another academic requirement. However, as time passed, I began to see it as an experience that would help to change the way
• WHERE MANAGEMENT MEETS HUMANITYBy MIDON TITUS | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4101 | February 2026 "Beyond classrooms and assignments, the most valuable lessons are learned through empathy, service, and human connection."
• Page 21MORE THAN A Through observation and discussions, we prepared a list of essential items required by PROGRAM: A LEARNING them. This activity helped me understand how NGOs plan their support initiatives based on actual needs rather than assumptions. It also EXPERIENCE IN CARE showed me the importance of proper observation and communication in social work.
• A JOURNEY BEYOND CLASSROOMSThis journey was not just an internship, it was a learning experience that taught me the value of compassion, patience, and purposeful action in creating positive social impact. By ABHIJITH M R| PGDM Batch 34, FK-4165 | February 2026
• SIP: Ashwasa BhavanA VISIT TO ASHWASA BHAVAN By Nikita Moncy| PGDM Batch 34, FK-4161 | February 2026
• MY INTERNSHIP JOURNEY: MAKING A DIFFERENCEBy ALEX THARAYIL | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4089 | February 2026 "The most meaningful learning happens when we step into communities, listen to their challenges, and become part of the solution."
• WHERE EVERY SMILE TELLS A STORYMy Days at Sai Gramam By Noureen Nizar| PGDM Batch 34, FK-4111 | February 2026
• A JOURNEY INTO SOCIAL AWARENESSWhat started as an academic requirement soon became one of the most meaningful and impactful experiences of my life. By ADWAITH E SREENIVASAN| PGDM Batch 34, FK-4133 | February 2026
• UNDERSTANDING CARE AND COMPASSION MY JOURNEY AT HOPEBy RISHIKESH PRAKSAH | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4174 | February 2026 My two-week Social Immersion Program at At the same time, the experience was not always HOPE Charitable Trust, Pilathara, was a simple easy. Listening to some of their life stories was yet deeply meaningful experience. HOPE is a emotional for me. There were moments when I rehabilitation centre that provides care and didn’t know how to react or what to say. It took support to physically and mentally challenged time to understand how to stay calm and individuals, as well as people who do not have supportive without getting too affected. I also had proper family or financial support. The centre to adjust to their pace, because everyone is focuses on providing shelter, food, medical different: some people talk openly, while others attention, and help in daily routines in a take time to connect. structured and caring environment. Being there By the end of the program, I felt a strong in person helped me understand how much emotional connection with the residents. When I effort and patience is required to take care of was leaving, many of them asked me if I would the residents and manage their everyday come back, and that moment made me realize needs.
• A JOURNEY INTO SOCIAL REALITYA Reflection from My Internship at SOS Youth Home By Allendorf Antony James | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4140| February 2026
• WHERE CARE BECOMES HOPEBy ARYA NANDA PR | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4091 | February 2026 My internship at Arike Palliative Care was a deeply meaningful and eye-opening experience that helped me understand the real essence of compassion, empathy, and community service.
• UNDERSTANDING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL ISSUESBy SRINITHI NACHIYAR| PGDM Batch 34, FK-4095 | February 2026 "Every drop of water saved today is an investment in the well-being of future generations."
• BEYOND THE CLASSROOMA Heartfelt Experience at Ashwasa Bhavan By BEN SUNNY VARGHESE | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4173 | February 2026
• LESSONS BEYOND THE CLASSROOMBy DANIEL V SONY | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4131 | February 2026 As part of the PGDM Social Immersion Program, I had the opportunity to spend two weeks at Mariyasadanam, Pala, a charitable institution that provides care and support to vulnerable individuals such as the elderly, patients requiring palliative care, and people facing mental health challenges.
• HEALING WITH HUMANITYA Meaningful Experience at Arike Palliative Care By CHRISTA JOYTHI | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4080 | February 2026
• LESSONS IN ELDERLY CAREBy HARSHITHA SANDHI | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4077 | February 2026 Social Immersion Programme at Sri Swamy Yogeswarananda Giri Viswasanthi Old Age Welfare Society
• SIP IMMERSION PROGRAM AT KARUNA PALLIATIVE CARE AND SOCIETY, CHENGANNURBy SHANE VINU ABRAHAM | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4167 | February 2026 Founded in 2014, Karuna has emerged as a model of compassionate, community-driven palliative care. With services spanning across 188 wards in Chengannur, the organization focuses on delivering holistic care that addresses not only medical needs but also the emotional and social well-being of patients. Through home visits, free medicine distribution, medical equipment support, and laboratory services, Karuna ensures that healthcare reaches those who are often unable to access it due to financial or physical limitations.
• A JOURNEY OF REALISATION AND RESPONSIBILITYWe often look at people who do better than us, measuring our lives against theirs. But sometimes, it becomes necessary to look at those who are less privileged to understand what we already have truly. By NUZA MUHAMAD | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4113 | February 2026
• STEPPING INTO SOCIETY: MY SOCIAL IMMERSION EXPERIENCEBy AKSHAY D | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4138 | February 2026 The Social Immersion Program provided me with a valuable opportunity to step beyond classroom learning and engage directly with real-world social issues. As part of this experience, I interned with Captains Social Foundation, a youth-led NGO that promotes volunteerism and social responsibility through initiatives focused community welfare, and on education, environmental awareness. The programme began with field visits and interactions across different localities, helping me understand grassroots challenges and the importance of identifying real problems before designing solutions.
• FINDING PURPOSE THROUGH SERVICE: MY JOURNEY AT KARUNALAYAMBy G NANDAGOPAL | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4094 | February 2026 The two-week Social Immersion Program at Karunalayam Home for the Destitute and Infirm was a deeply meaningful experience that helped me understand the true value of compassion, service, and social responsibility. It gave me an opportunity to step out of the classroom and engage directly with people who face real-life challenges, especially the elderly and individuals with mental health conditions who have been abandoned or neglected.
• A JOURNEY THAT CREATED LASTING IMPACTBy GAYATHRI DAS M. | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4108 | February 2026 In my view, Santhwanam Archdiocese Welfare Centre is an organization that truly works for the welfare of society by focusing on the needs of vulnerable communities. It not only provides support but also empowers individuals through Self-Help Groups (SHGs), livelihood initiatives, and medical assistance programs. I felt that the organization follows a practical and meaningful approach by combining social service with reallife solutions such as employment generation, financial support, and healthcare services. This creates a positive and lasting impact on people’s lives. I had the opportunity to actively engage in various activities, especially related to Self-Help Groups. I worked on financial data entry, verification of SHG accounts, and organizing records. I also interacted with SHG members and understood their financial challenges and daily struggles. These interactions helped me realize the importance of proper financial management and guidance at the grassroots level. One of the most meaningful experiences during my internship was my involvement in the Teddy Making Unit, which focuses on empowering unemployed women. I communicated with selected participants, helped organize records, and observed their training sessions. It was inspiring to see women learning new skills with enthusiasm and hope for a better future.
• WHERE CARE MEETS HUMANITYBy PAULSON JOSPEH | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4149 | February 2026 My internship in Mariyasadanam was not only a learning experience for me, but it was a reminder of the power of empathy and community support and our responsibility towards those in need. This is an experience that will shape my outlook long after my academic journey is over.
• A REFLECTION FROM WELFARE ASSOCIATION TRUST, ALUVABy HARIPRASAD REJI | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4098 | February 2026 The first three days of my internship at Welfare Association Trust, Aluva, were not easy. As a PGDM student, the environment felt very new and uncomfortable.
• FROM OBSERVATION TO EMPATHY: MY JOURNEY THROUGH SOCIAL IMMERSIONBy KEVIN MARSHALL | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4171 | February 2026 My Social Immersion Programme at Quilon Social Service Society (QSSS) provided valuable exposure to the challenges faced by marginalized communities and the efforts taken to support them. QSSS works in areas such as women empowerment, child welfare, palliative care, and livelihood development, aiming to improve the quality of life of vulnerable groups. One of the most impactful experiences was accompanying the palliative care team during home visits. Meeting patients suffering from chronic illnesses helped me understand that care involves not only medical support but also emotional companionship. Simple conversations and human connection often brought comfort to those facing difficult circumstances. Another meaningful activity was the distribution of essential kits to economically weaker families. This experience highlighted the struggles many households face in meeting basic needs and showed how social support initiatives help preserve dignity and well-being.
• BEYOND THE CLASSROOM: LESSONS FROM THE FIELDBy MIDHUN J JOSEPH | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4110 | February 2026 My Social Immersion Program at Gandhi Smaraka Grama Seva Kendram, S.L. Puram, Alappuzha, was more than just an internship. It was an experience that changed the way I look at development and society. The organisation, rooted in Gandhian principles, works closely with rural communities through initiatives such as women empowerment, sustainable agriculture, and community welfare programs.
• THE NANMA MOVEMENT: FROM AWARENESS TO ACTIONBy NANDANA SANJAY | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4097 | February 2026 About The Organization
• Page 45By NEERAD R. | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4136 | February 2026 FROM CLASSROOM TO COMMUNITY: INSIGHTS FROM SOCIAL IMMERSION PROGRAMME Age may silver the hair, but it never dims the spirit.
• I MET A MAN WITH THE PUREST SMILECare is not always about curing; sometimes, it is about being present when it matters most. By NEHA JOHSON | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4107 | February 2026
• STEPPING OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM: INSIGHTS INTO GRASS ROOTS LIFEBy GINIL K ANIL | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4142 | February 2026 A Reflection from My Social Immersion Program at Ernakulam Social Service Society
• BEYOND AGE: CREATING INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIESBy GOKUL CHANTH K.S.| PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4160 | February 2026 In recent years, the challenges faced by senior citizens have become more visible, especially in our rapidly developing society.
• BEYOND ACADEMIC WORK- A JOURNEY OF REFLECTIONS, EMOTIONS AND LEARNINGSBy BHAGYALAKSHMI P | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4120 | February 2026 The biggest learning that I had from the two
• A JOURNEY OF LEARNING AND COMPASSIONBy Rajasree N V | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4150 | February 2026 "Some pictures speak louder than words, capturing love, care, and emotions that the heart understands instantly.
• FROM PARTICIPATION TO PURPOSEBy Rajath B Naik | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4146 | February 2026 The Social Immersion Program at the Welfare Association Trust in Veliyathunadu, Aluva, turned out to be one of the most meaningful experiences of my academic journey. The organisation works towards the welfare of marginalized and vulnerable sections of society through several service units, including the We Care Psycho- Social Rehabilitation Centre, We Care Home, We Care Centre for Women in Distress, the We Care Charitable Hospital, and Welfare Village. These units provide essential services such healthcare, rehabilitation, shelter, psychosocial support to individuals in need.
• LESSONS FROM THE HEARTBy Josia Mareesa Salu | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4106 | February 2026 Social Immersion Program at Sanjose Vidyalaya, Ettumanoor, was one of the most meaningful and transformative experiences of my academic journey. The institution, functioning under the Sanjose
• WHERE LEARNING MEETS SERVICE: INSIGHTS FROM A RURAL DEVELOPMENT JOURNEYBy Rohit Jaychandran | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4162 | February 2026 The program began with an orientation on the organisation’s structure and activities. I visited units such as the Khadi store, Vastralayam, Prakruthi Bio Lab, and the canteen. These visits showed how social service is combined with income-generating activities. Interactions with SHG members, farmers, and staff helped me understand grassroots functioning. My two-week Social Immersion Program (SIP) at I attended LDC meetings, farmers’ club sessions, Gandhi
• A DIFFERENT CLASSROOM, A DIFFERENT WORLDBy Safa Nasreen | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4145 | February 2026 “I walked into the classroom thinking I would teach. I walked out realizing I had so much more to learn.”
• UNDERSTANDING BEYOND WORDSWhere Hearts Remember, Even When Minds Forget By Sandra A S | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4099 | February 2026 In a world that rarely slows down for people, my Social Immersion Program at House of Providence gently reminded me to pause—to listen, to feel and to truly see others. What started as a two-week internship soon became something far more meaningful. On the first day, I felt lost. I didn’t know what to say, how to behave or how to connect with the residents. But an orientation session led by a compassionate sister gave us direction and comfort.
• A REAL- LIFE LEARNING EXPERIENCE AT ESSSBy Nisna Soban | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4132 | February 2026 The SIP at Ernakulam Social Service Society (ESSS) was an eye- opening experience that helped me see life beyond textbooks and classrooms. ESSS, the social service wing of the Archdiocese of Verapoly, works with communities that face financial and social difficulties. Through its programs like housing assistance, Self Help Groups, medical aid, and awareness sessions, the organization tries to bring real change into people’s lives
• LEARNING THROUGH SOCIAL ENGAGEMENTMy Internship at Welfare Services Ernakulam By Chandana Vinil | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4163 | February 2026
• FROM CLASSROOM THEORIES TO GRASSROOTS REALITYBy Akshaya J | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4114 | February 2026 Learning Rural Development Through Social Immersion
• BEYOND BOOKS, INTO COMMUNITIESBy Adarsh Jeesan | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4139 | February 2026 ABOUT THE ORGANISATION
• WHEN CARE TURNS INTO PURPOSEBy Devadath K Diju | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4155 | February 2026 I realized how important simple conversations, patience, and kindness are in improving someone’s emotional well-being.
• THE BONDS WE BUILTBy Oommen Thomas | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4151 | February 2026 Their smiles became my reward, their blessings became my strength.
• LEARNING HUMANITY AT KARUNALAYAMBy Altair S | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4117 | February 2026 Humanity is not measured by what we give, but by the time, care, and compassion we share.
• SERVICE WITH HEART: HEALING LIVES THROUGH LOVE AND CAREBy Ananda Krishna U | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4169 | February 2026 During my ten days Social Immersion Program at the Brothers of St. Joseph Cottolengo, Palluruthy, I had the opportunity to experience how a social welfare institution works at the grassroots level. The program gave me a deeper understanding of compassion, service, and the importance of supporting people who are often neglected by society. The institution provides care for around 50 residents, including mentally challenged individuals, physically disabled persons, elderly people, and those who have been abandoned. From the very first day, I realized that their work goes beyond just providing food and shelter, it focuses on giving dignity, care, and a sense of belonging to every individual. During the program, I was actively involved in daily activities such as assisting residents during meals, supporting hygiene care, and spending time interacting with them. These simple activities helped me understand the importance of patience and empathy. Many residents required constant support, and even small acts of care made a big difference in their lives. One of the most meaningful parts of the experience was conducting and participating in engagement activities.
• A JOURNEY THAT CREATED LASTING IMPACTBy Athul Krishna V S | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4175 | February 2026 In my view, Welfare Services Ernakulam is an organization that truly works for the upliftment of society by focusing on the needs of vulnerable people. It does not just provide support but helps individuals programs become like
• A TRANSFORMATIVE SOCIAL IMMERSION JOURNEYBy JACOB SAM M G | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4153 | February 2026 The SIP offered a meaningful chance to move beyond classroom theory and engage with real societal challenges. During this experience, I completed an internship with Captains NGO, contributing to initiatives focused on education, awareness, and community development. The programme started with field visits and interactions in diverse localities, enabling us to closely observe and understand grassroots issues. We were guided to identify problems and create practical solutions, which strengthened our problem-solving abilities while fostering a deeper sense of social responsibility and community engagement. This experience also improved eamwork, communication, adaptability, and empathy
• EXPERIENCING SOCIAL IMPACT: MY INTERNSHIP AT SARGAKSHETRABy Alwin Emmanuel | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4086 | February 2026 As part of the Social Immersion Program (SIP), I had the opportunity to complete my internship at Sargakshetra, a socio-cultural and charitable organization located in Changanassery, Kerala. The organization works towards community welfare by conducting educational programs, health awareness initiatives, and providing financial assistance to people in need. Sargakshetra focuses on supporting vulnerable groups in society, including students, cancer patients, and families affected by natural calamities. During the two-week immersion program, I was involved in several administrative and coordination activities within the organization. My responsibilities included maintaining financial records, preparing Excel sheets for the allocation of funds for cancer patients, organizing documents, and assisting in the filing of records related to various NGO programs. I also had the opportunity to contact parents and participants to confirm their participation in educational seminars and quiz programs conducted for students.
• BEYOND BOOKS: WHERE REAL LEARNING BEGINSBy Akhil Paulose | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4143 | February 2026 What began as a two-week internship slowly turned into an experience that reshaped the way I see people, challenges, and even myself. The Social Immersion Program was not just about understanding an NGO. It was about understanding life beyond comfort zones.
• THE WEALTH OF HUMAN CONNECTIONBy Michael Anthony Gomes | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4082 | February 2026 As part of my PGDM program, I participated in the Social Immersion Programme (SIP) at the House of Providence, Ernakulam. The institution provides care and support for elderly people who need assistance in their daily lives and ensures that they live with safety and dignity. During the internship, I helped in organising books in the library, doing small housekeeping activities, and interacting with the residents. Spending time with them and listening to their life experiences was one of the most meaningful parts of the programme. These interactions helped me understand the emotional needs of elderly people and the importance of companionship. One important thought I had during this internship was that money cannot buy true happiness. The residents in the institution have proper facilities such as food, shelter, and medical care.
• BEYOND CLASSROOMS: A JOURNEY OF LEARNING AT SANJOSE VIDYALAYABy Sreelekshmi K Azad | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4126 | February 2026 In a world where education is often confined to textbooks and lecture halls, my Social Immersion Programme at Sanjose Vidyalaya became a transformative experience that redefined my understanding of learning, empathy, and social responsibility.
• MORE THAN AN INTERNSHIP: A JOURNEY INTO COMMUNITY AND COMPASSIONBy Aiswarya C Bansidar | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4088 | February 2026 The most memorable part of my SIP was my visit to the Chavara Vocational Training Center, where the Inclusys Foundation provides skill training for neurodivergent individuals. During the visit, I was asked to conduct a small activity with the trainees. The staff informed me about a young man who sometimes displayed aggressive behaviour due to a severe mental disorder. Instead of avoiding him, I sat beside him and My Social Immersion Program (SIP) at Welfare engaged him in a simple colouring activity. Services Ernakulam (WSE) was much more than Although he struggled to stay within the lines, he an academic requirement. It allowed me to step participated sincerely and remained calm beyond the classroom and understand social throughout. realities through direct interaction with Later, when another instructor recited numbers in communities. WSE works towards community Malayalam, he unexpectedly responded with development by addressing issues such as some numbers in English, revealing abilities that poverty, limited livelihood opportunities, healthcare were not immediately visible. Before I left, he access, and social exclusion. Through programs came looking for me and shook my hand. That like microfinance, early intervention services, skill simple gesture left a lasting impact on me. training, and livelihood support, the organization This experience taught me that people with empowers vulnerable individuals and promotes disabilities should not be defined by their self-reliance.
• FOURTEEN DAYS AT S.S SAMITHI: A LESSON BEYOND THE CLASSROOMBy Prince Emmanuel Charles | PGDM Batch 34, FK-4135 | February 2026 Some inmates wrote small farewell notes and some expressed their gratitude through warm smiles and conversations.
• MOMENTS OF HUMANITYBy Sumitra S | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4130 | February 2026 The two-week NGO internship programme was a transformative experience that offered me an opportunity to step beyond academic learning and engage with real-world social issues. It provided a platform to understand the functioning of organizations and the meaningful impact they create within communities.
• LESSONS IN COMPASSION AND INCLUSIONBy Vijay Bhasker Pradeep | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4177 | February 2026 And even after the program ended, one thing stayed with me: A strong desire to continue contributing in whatever way I can, towards building a more inclusive and compassionate society.
• AN EXPERIENCE TO REMEMBERBy Vijaylakshmi L G | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4141 | February 2026 My 14 days at Amar Saath Foundation were very meaningful and a beautiful experience for me. Before this internship, I had only a basic idea about how NGOs function, but this experience helped me understand what actually happens behind the scenes. It gave me a chance to be part of the work, not just observe it. During the internship, I was involved in activities such as tagging and quality-checking tote bags, sorting and packing donated clothes, making outreach calls to hotels, and organising digital records. With the constant guidance and support of Lincy mam and Jewel sir, I was able to understand each task more clearly. At first, these tasks felt simple, but when I started doing them, I realised how much effort, patience, and coordination they require to complete properly. Even small mistakes in sorting or counting could affect the distribution process, so everything had to be done carefully. One of the main things I observed was how the NGO makes the best use of whatever resources they have. For example, in the Eco Sparsh initiative, used linen is collected and converted into useful products, which not only reduces waste but also creates income for women. In the Amardhaan program, clothes are not just collected and distributed randomly: they are carefully checked, sorted, and packed so that people receive them with dignity. This made me understand that social work is not just about helping, but about helping in the right way.
• THROUGH THEIR EYES, I LEARNEDBy Vishal V Abraham | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4172 | February 2026 The Social Immersion Program was a journey of growth, learning, and emotional connection that will stay with me forever.
• WHERE LEARNING MEETS HUMANITYBy KRISHNAPRIYA I J | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4122 | February 2026 My SIP was completed at the Ernakulam Social Service Society (ESSS), Kacheripady. ESSS is a Non-Governmental Organization dedicated to improving the lives of poor and marginalized communities. It addresses issues such as poverty, housing, health, and financial insecurity, supporting women, children, the elderly, migrant workers, and differently-abled individuals through programs like Self-Help Groups (SHGs), housing assistance, health awareness, and livelihood development. I had the opportunity to engage in both office and field activities. My tasks included contacting SHG members, entering details of cancer patients for financial assistance, preparing notices and documents, and assisting in a prostate cancer awareness program. These experiences helped me understand the importance of communication and documentation in delivering effective social support.
• MY EXPERIENCE AT THANAL VMV ORPHANAGEBy ANJALI KRISHNA P B | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4119 | February 2026 The program reinforced the importance of humanitarian service and highlighted the crucial role played by social welfare institutions in supporting vulnerable individuals and promoting inclusive community development.
• A JOURNEY OF LEARNINGBy Athul Krishna M S | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4116| February 2026 From the beginning, I was welcomed into a supportive environment by the healthcare team, including nurses, staff members, and coordinators. Their dedication, patience, and compassionate approach towards patients made me realize the true value of service and teamwork in community healthcare. One of the most impactful aspects of my internship was participating in home visits along with the palliative care team. During the program, I visited around 16 patients in areas such as Maradu, Vyttila, Nettor, and Palarivattom. These visits gave me direct exposure to the physical, emotional, and social struggles faced by patients and their families. I understood that many of them depend entirely on such services for their daily care and emotional support. One particular experience that deeply moved me was visiting a patient who was in a very critical condition and completely dependent on others for basic needs. Despite being in pain, the patient responded with a gentle smile when the nurse interacted kindly and provided care. That moment made me realize how powerful compassion and human connection can be. It was not just the treatment, but the way the care was given—with patience, respect, and empathy that made a difference. This experience stayed with me and changed the way I view healthcare and human relationships.
• EXPERIENCING CHANGE: MY SOCIAL IMMERSION PROGRAMME JOURNEYBy JAYAKRISHNAN K J | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4156 | February 2026 Introduction Programe to the Social
• Page 80In helping others, we shall help ourselves, for whatever good we give out completes the circle and comes back to us. -Flora Edwards