Empowering Students: Awareness Training on Addiction at Holy Family Higher Secondary School

Holy Family Higher Secondary School in Mukkootukal held a vital awareness training program for students from the 6th to the 12th grades on August 19th and 21st, 2024. This event, organized by the school management, aimed to address the pressing issue of addiction through a combination of educational and interactive sessions.     The training was divided into two informative sessions. The first session, led by Fr. Mijo, focused on addiction in its various forms. He provided a thorough analysis of addiction, including substance abuse, behavioural addictions, and notably, mobile and social media addiction. He highlighted the growing concern of excessive mobile and social media use, discussing its impact on mental health, academic performance, and social relationships. His systematic approach offered students valuable insights into recognizing signs of addiction and strategies for managing and recovering from it.

Empowering Future Social Workers: MSW Training Class at KKSSS

KKSSS hosted a comprehensive training class for MSW (Master of Social Work) students of Nanjil Catholic College, Kaliyakkavilai on August 14. The session began with an overview of the organization's mission and the role of social workers in community development. Key highlights included presentations by KKSSS Director Rev. Fr. Thomas Poovattummottil, who shared insights into successful community programs and innovative approaches to social issues. Students posed questions and received personalized advice on their future careers. The training class was a significant step in preparing these future social workers for impactful roles in their communities, reflecting KKSSS’s commitment for advancing social work education and practice.

The 9th edition of the VARNAM inter-district painting and drawing competition, organized by the Kanyakumari Social Service Society (KKSSS), took place on November 8, 2024, as part of the celebrations for National and International Children’s Day in the month of November. The event saw the enthusiastic participation of 35 schools from across Kanyakumari district, with students competing in various categories and winning numerous prizes.The inaugural ceremony began with a prayer song performed by the students of CSI Matric Higher Secondary School, Azhagiyamanadapam, setting a serene tone for the event. Rev. Fr. Thomas Poovathummoottil, the director of KKSSS, welcomed the chief guest, Rev. Fr. Michael Arokiyaswamy SDB, Principal of St. Alphonsa Arts and Science College, Soosaipuram, along with all the distinguished guests and participants.

In his inaugural address, Rev. Fr. Michael Arokiyaswamy SDB encouraged the students to explore and develop their artistic talents, emphasizing the importance of creativity in shaping their futures. Rev. Fr. Subin Puthenpurackal, Assistant Director of KKSSS, then provided the instructions for the competition, ensuring all participants understood the rules and guidelines. The competition was divided into two categories: Drawing for students from grades IV to VI, and Painting for students from grades VII to X. The students were given one hour to complete their artwork.Following the competition, Rev. Fr. Nelson, Director of the Thirupumunai D-addiction Centre, conducted an informative session on the dangers of addiction, underscoring the significance of healthy choices and the importance of staying away from harmful substances.

The concluding ceremony was held later in the day, where Rev. Fr. Thomas Poovathummoottil delivered the welcome address. The chief guest for the concluding session was Mrs. Jenusha Ajith, the President of Mulagumoodu Panchayat, who spoke about the artistic potential of children and congratulated the winners for their creative excellence. She also praised the event for providing a platform for students to showcase their talents.Prizes were distributed to the winners in each category, including First, Second, and Third place, along with consolation prizes. All participating schools were awarded a shield in recognition of their involvement. The event concluded with a speech by Rev. Fr. Subin Puthenpurackal, Assistant Director of KKSSS, who thanked everyone for their participation and support, and encouraged students to continue exploring their creative abilities.The VARNAM competition was a remarkable success, celebrating the artistic achievements of students from Kanyakumari district and fostering a spirit of creativity, unity, and social awareness among the young participants.

“If there is no food for a single person, we will destroy the world.” - Bharathiyar.

Self Help Groups of Kanyakumari Social Service Society has organized “World Food Day “on 16 October 2025 at various places’ with the abandoned people, Old age home and psychiatric patients living on the street. This day is celebrated annually to promote global awareness and action for those who suffer from hunger and to highlight the need to ensure healthy diets for all. The KKSSS SHG women and animators visited different places of Kanyakumari District as 24 teams and provided food Kit and Lunch for the patients and above said needy people

In a significant step towards promoting women’s independence and confidence, KKSSS inaugurated a Scooty Riding Training programme for SHG members at the Christurajapuram Centre, enabling women to acquire a practical skill that enhances mobility and personal freedom. Twenty women enthusiastically enrolled in the programme, eager to learn and gain confidence on the road. The inauguration ceremony was held on 15 December at 10:00 a.m. at the Christ the King Community Hall, Christurajapuram, in the presence of the KKSSS Director Rev. Fr. Mahesh Antony, Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Jose Vayalil, trainer Mrs. Sajitha, SHG Coordinator, Centre Animator, and the trainees. The programme began with a prayer song invoking God’s blessings, followed by a welcome note presented by the trainees themselves, reflecting their excitement and readiness to learn. Rev. Fr. Mahesh Antony congratulated the participants and encouraged them to make the most of this opportunity, while Rev. Fr. Jose Vayalil felicitated the trainer and motivated the trainees to confidently embrace the new skill. The participants expressed heartfelt appreciation to KKSSS for organizing a structured and meaningful programme that marks an important step in advancing women’s empowerment, independence, and active social inclusion.