From Fellowship to Entrepreneurship: Youth in Climate Action

Rajagiri College stands at the forefront of institutions committed to integrating the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into its academic and operational frameworks. These 17 global goals serve as a universal call to action, addressing critical challenges like poverty, inequality, and climate change while ensuring environmental sustainability and social equity. Recognizing its role in shaping future leaders, Rajagiri College has made sustainability a cornerstone of its mission, aligning itself with the UGC's 2021 Regulations on sustainability and green campus initiatives, which emphasize the responsibility of higher education institutions to foster environmental consciousness and sustainable practices. This commitment reflects the college’s vision to prepare students for meaningful contributions to global well-being while fostering a culture of responsibility and innovation.
In this spirit, the Department of Psychology, in collaboration with the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), organized an impactful session on November 22, 2024, titled “From Fellowship to Entrepreneurship: Youth in Climate Action”. Centered around SDG 13, which focuses on climate action, the event provided a platform to educate and inspire students about their role in combating climate change. The keynote speaker, Ms. Sweetlana Ranjan, Founder and CEO of I Behind The Ink (IBTI), brought valuable insights into the conversation, illustrating how young minds can transition from climate advocates to climate entrepreneurs.
This initiative highlights the vital connection between academia and sustainability. Climate action, as outlined in SDG 13, demands transformative changes in how we think, live, and innovate. By hosting such events,
Rajagiri College underscores its responsibility to instill in students a sense of urgency and purpose in addressing environmental issues. It recognizes that education is not merely about imparting knowledge but about cultivating leaders who can contribute to the realization of the SDGs, particularly through practical and scalable solutions.
Ms. Sweetlana Ranjan’s address was a masterclass in bridging the gap between awareness and action. She shared her entrepreneurial journey, shedding light on how young individuals can harness creativity, collaboration, and determination to build sustainable ventures. Her insights into the behavioral aspects of climate action resonated strongly, particularly with the Department of Psychology. She emphasized that entrepreneurship is not just about financial gain but about creating systems and solutions that drive lasting positive change.
The Department of Psychology has a unique and crucial role in contributing to SDG 13 and other sustainability goals. Psychological research and practice can illuminate the motivations behind human behavior, offering tools to promote pro-environmental actions and overcome resistance to change. For example, understanding the psychological barriers to adopting sustainable practices can help design effective interventions and campaigns to shift mindsets toward ecological responsibility.
Furthermore, this event highlights the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to sustainability. While science and technology provide solutions, psychology ensures that these solutions are adopted and sustained by individuals and communities. Rajagiri College’s Department of Psychology
exemplifies this by not only contributing academically to the discourse on sustainability but also by engaging its students in meaningful, action-oriented initiatives.
The collaboration between the IQAC and the Department of Psychology reflects Rajagiri
College’s broader commitment to aligning education with sustainability. By actively engaging with SDGs and fostering a culture of environmental stewardship, the college equips its students to
address the most pressing challenges of our time. Through events like “From Fellowship to Entrepreneurship: Youth in Climate Action”, Rajagiri College ensures that its graduates are not just academically proficient but also socially and environmentally responsible global citizens. This dedication to sustainability sets a benchmark for other institutions and reiterates the college’s role in building a sustainable future for all.

Faculty Coordinators                                                                   Head of the Department  
Dr. Kusum Mary George & Ms. Susanna Sijo                                               Dr. Anita Rajah

The Department of Psychology at Rajagiri College of Social Sciences, in collaboration with the Rajagiri Center for Climate Change and Research (RCCCR) and the Sustainability and Social Responsibility Club of ACSR, observed World Pollution Prevention Day with impactful initiatives aimed at raising environmental awareness and promoting sustainable practices.The event, coordinated by the second-year MSc Psychology students, was guided and supported by  Principal Rev. Fr. Dr. Saju M.D., CMI.

Key dignitaries, including Ernakulam District Coordinator of Children and Police, SI Babu John P., Thooshan founder Mr. Vinay Balakrishnan, Dr. R. Bharathi Rajan, Dr. S. Antony Ceasar, and Dr. Anita Rajah, delivered insightful speeches on sustainable practices, environmental responsibility, and the critical need to reduce pollution in the face of climate change.

The event was particularly significant as it aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG 13), which urges global action to combat climate change and its impacts. The speakers emphasized how individual and collective efforts contribute to achieving this goal by promoting eco-friendly practices, reducing carbon footprints, and preserving natural resources for future generations. The second edition of the department’s magazine, PsyNow, was also released during the ceremony.

After the formal session, the students organized a rally to spread awareness within the local community and staged a street play at Kalamassery Government Higher Secondary School, educating children about the importance of pollution prevention and the role they can play in safeguarding the environment.

This event, organized under the auspices of the IQAC, showcased the power of youth-driven initiatives and collective action in fostering a cleaner, greener future, emphasizing the relevance of SDG 13 in shaping a sustainable world.

Faculty Coordinator                                                              Head of the Department 

Dr. Kusum Mary George                                                              Dr. Anita Rajah

MENTAL HEALTH WEEK OBSERVANCE – REPORT

DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHOLOGY

RAJAGIRI COLLEGE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES

Every year, World Mental Health Day is typically observed on 10th October, but this year, the Department of Psychology extended the celebration to an entire week, designating it as Mental Health Observance Week. The events took place from 4th to 10th October, engaging students and staff in meaningful activities. The celebrations commenced officially on October 4th, 2024, when the third-year students of the BSc Psychology program, organized a special event to commemorate this occasion, and ended with a beautiful street play by the 1^st years, with the master’s students supporting them throughout the week.

4^th October 2024:

The B.Sc. Psychology 3^rd year’s decision to celebrate earlier was made in consideration of the study leave scheduled for that week for them. This year, the theme for World Mental Health Day is "It is time to prioritize mental health in the workplace." In line with this theme, they focused on promoting awareness of mental well-being among the employees of our college.

As part of the celebration, the third-year students created handmade cards that contained messages of gratitude and self-care tips, encouraging staff members to take small yet meaningful steps toward their mental health. Along with these thoughtful cards, sweets were also attached to bring a touch of warmth and positivity to the gesture. The cards were distributed to various employees across the college, from administrative staff to faculty members, as a way of showing appreciation for their hard work and reminding them of the importance of taking care of their mental health.

The event aimed to foster a supportive work environment by encouraging staff to reflect on their well-being and practice self-care. Overall, the initiative was well-received, and it was heartwarming to see the smiles and gratitude from the employees. Through this small but impactful gesture, we hope to have contributed to creating greater awareness about mental health in the workplace, aligning with this year's World Mental Health Day theme. The event successfully highlighted the importance of mental health in our daily lives and served as a reminder to prioritize mental well-being, particularly in the context of work.

7^th October 2024, Monday:

On 7th October, first-year students from M.Sc. Psychology and M.Sc. Counselling Psychology came together to organize a series of fun-filled activities for the Rajagiri community. Held at the courtyard, between 12:30 pm and 2:00 pm, the event featured a variety of interactive games and awareness campaigns aimed at promoting the message of mental health awareness in honour of World Mental Health Day.

The “Board of Reflections” was one of the event’s highlights, offering participants a safe and creative space to express their thoughts and emotions. Spectators were invited to write down motivating messages, stressors, or worries on sticky notes, which they then posted on the board. The act of writing was not only cathartic but also symbolized a step toward opening up about feelings that may have been difficult to articulate otherwise. The board quickly filled with colourful notes—some sharing positive affirmations, while others expressed concerns that had been weighing heavy on participants' hearts. Many found comfort in reading others’ notes, realizing they weren’t alone in their struggles. The platform served as a gentle reminder that sharing feelings, even anonymously, can be a powerful release and an essential step toward healing.       

“Colour Your Emotions” was an instant hit, particularly among first-year students. A face-painting stall was set up, where students could choose from a variety of designs representing different emotions. The sunflower symbolized happiness, the fire design expressed rage, sparkles conveyed excitement, the heart represented love, and a broken heart illustrated feelings of sadness or loss. Other designs included waves for hope and teardrops for sorrow, but participants were also encouraged to come up with their own symbols, making the event deeply personal and unique. Students were eager to showcase their emotions through art, and many had their faces and hands adorned with vibrant designs. For some, it became a light-hearted way to express how they felt in the moment, while for others, it served as an important form of emotional release. The stall created a lively atmosphere, with everyone enjoying both the art and the conversations sparked by it.          

The “Bowl of Positivity” was an activity that truly embodied the spirit of Mental Health Week. Participants were invited to draw a message from a bowl filled with notes that symbolized the encouraging words one might want to hear from a loved one. The messages ranged from short affirmations to thoughtful, longer notes, each filled with warmth and encouragement. After picking a note, participants were encouraged to write their own message and leave it in the bowl for someone else to pick, creating a cycle of kindness and positivity. As students opened the notes, smiles lit up their faces, and a contagious sense of joy spread through the crowd. The act of both giving and receiving positive messages left participants feeling connected and uplifted. It reminded everyone of the importance of spreading love and support, especially during challenging times. Also, reinforcing the participants with chocolates assured that the crowd kept coming in.       

The “Pop-It” activity was one of the most dynamic events of the week. Participants were given balloons to blow up, and after inflating them, they were encouraged to write down any stresses, frustrations, or worries on the surface of the balloon. Once written, participants popped the balloon, symbolizing the act of letting go of their burdens. The activity was not only fun but also highly therapeutic, as students found the symbolic release of popping the balloon to be a powerful metaphor for freeing themselves from the weight of their stressors. The courtyard was filled with the sound of balloons popping, accompanied by laughter and visible relief on the faces of those who participated. Many remarked how the simple act of bursting the balloon made them feel lighter, as if they were physically letting go of the frustrations they had been holding inside.            

Throughout this time, badges with purple and blue hearts were distributed, symbolizing Suicide prevention and awareness. This campaign was aimed at educating participants about the rising incidence of suicide among young people and the importance of recognizing the signs of mental distress in those around us. The message was clear: mental health struggles should not be suffered in silence, and support is available for those who need it. Students and teachers alike wore the badges with pride, reinforcing the message of solidarity with those experiencing mental health challenges. The event raised awareness about the importance of extending a helping hand to anyone who might feel vulnerable or alone, reminding everyone that even small acts of kindness and understanding can make a world of difference.

By 2 pm, we concluded the day’s programmes and the crowd dispersed from the courtyard.

9^th October 2024, Wednesday:

The celebrations continued at the courtyard and Darshana Auditorium, where the space was beautifully decorated with handmade paper crafts and mental health quotes created by students. The event, beginning at 12:40 pm at the courtyard, included various interactive activities that encouraged participants to express their emotions in a safe and supportive environment. The day’s events were managed by the first-year students from M.Sc. Counselling Psychology.

The “Board of Confessions” provided a platform where students could anonymously write down personal thoughts, fears, or regrets, which they posted on the board for others to read. This activity created an atmosphere of mutual understanding and empathy, allowing students to release bottled-up emotions and connect with others experiencing similar feelings.

“Art for Everyone” invited students to contribute to a large mural using handprints and fingerprints. This colorful, collective artwork symbolized the unity of the Rajagiri community, where each individual's contribution represented their unique emotional journey. The mural, filled with vibrant colors, became a testament to the diversity of emotions students were experiencing and sharing throughout the week.                                          

The “Shove It Off” activity allowed students to write down their frustrations on pieces of paper, which they then physically tore apart. This act of destruction served as a symbolic release of negativity, encouraging participants to let go of the things weighing them down emotionally.

“Hopscotch” was another fun activity that saw enthusiastic participation. Students, including some international students, eagerly lined up to take part in this childhood game, which added an element of light-heartedness to the day’s events. Winners were rewarded with chocolates, bringing an extra level of excitement and celebration to the courtyard.                             In the evening at 4:30 pm, a session of music therapy and gratitude sharing open mic took place, where students and faculty came together to express their gratitude for the support and kindness they received from others. Musical performances by college students filled the gaps between speeches of gratitude, creating a soothing and reflective atmosphere. The session reinforced the importance of appreciation and positive connections in maintaining mental well-being.

The events for the day concluded with a great sense of camaraderie and positive energy, leaving students and faculty alike feeling emotionally uplifted and supported.

10th October 2024 (Thursday):

On World Mental Health Day itself, the grand finale of the week’s activities took place. The first year, B.Sc. Psychology (Hons) students prepared and performed a powerful street play at the college courtyard, focusing on the theme of how everyday situations can profoundly affect mental health.

The play presented four poignant scenarios: - the stress experienced by a small local retail store owner; the mental health impact on a child whose parents are constantly burdened by work-related stress; the tragic story of a corporate employee, who, overwhelmed by work pressure, turns to substance abuse and eventually takes her own life; and the mental breakdown of a brilliant dancer who, unable to cope with the high expectations placed on her, struggles with perfectionism. 

These scenarios were brought to life by the students' compelling performances, which vividly depicted the various forms of mental health struggles that individuals face. The audience, composed of students and faculty, was deeply moved by the performances, which emphasized the urgent need to raise awareness about mental health issues and the importance of empathy and support. 

 The street play served as a fitting conclusion to Mental Health Week, driving home the message that mental health should never be ignored or taken lightly, and that collective efforts are needed to foster a supportive and understanding environment for those struggling.

The response to Mental Health Week was overwhelmingly positive. Both students and faculty were deeply moved by the thoughtful and engaging activities. Many teachers commented on how informative and well-organized the events were, and how they provided an essential platform for students to openly discuss mental health, a topic often brushed aside. The games and activities were not only enjoyable but also incredibly insightful, offering students various ways to process and express their emotions. The event's focus on mental health awareness and emotional release was met with praise, with many expressing hopes that similar events would become a regular feature on campus.

The faculty coordinators, Dr. Kusum, Dr. Jovita and Dr. Amal provided unwavering support and guidance that ensured its successful execution. The Support and timely guidance from Dr. Anita Rajah was also remarkable. Their encouragement and expertise were instrumental in bringing our plans to life and making the Mental Health Week observance celebration a meaningful experience for everyone involved.

As hosts, we thoroughly enjoyed organizing the event. It was incredibly fulfilling to see students engaging with the activities, reflecting on their own mental health, and supporting each other. Watching participants' faces light up as they read a positive note” or saw their stress burst away with a balloon reminded us of the importance of creating such spaces for emotional expression and release. Overall, Mental Health Week observance not only succeeded in raising awareness but also strengthened the bonds within our college community, reminding us all that we are not alone in our struggles.

    Student Coordinators                                                             Faculty In Charge

 I YR BSC PSYCHOLOGY                                               Dr. Kusum Mary George 

 I YR MSC PSYCHOLOGY                                              Dr. Jovita Sherin George

IST YR MSC COUNSELLING PSYCHOLOGY              Dr. Amal Tom Jose

HOD

Dr. Anita Rajah

PsyConnect: Inspiring Pathways in Psychology
Department of Psychology, Rajagiri College of Social Sciences (Autonomous), Ernakulam, Kerala, India

Date: 2nd December 2024     
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM

The Department of Psychology, in collaboration with Psystar (Psychology Student Association), successfully conducted the second webinar of PsyConnect: Inspiring Pathways in Psychology, titled “Becoming a Psychologist.”The event began with a warm welcome address by Ms. Kripa, a second-year M.Sc Psychology student, who set an enthusiastic tone for the session. Dr. Anita Rajah, Professor & Head of the Department of Psychology, delivered the felicitation address, highlighting the importance of alumni connections and the significance of webinars like these in guiding aspiring psychologists. Ms. Vrinda Roshan, a second-year B.Sc Psychology student, introduced the distinguished alumni speakers, who shared their inspiring journeys and experiences in the field of psychology.

Speakers and Highlights

1. Namitha M.S.
   • Clinical Psychologist, Little Flower Institute of Medical Sciences & Research, Angamaly
   • Ms. Namitha narrated her academic and professional journey as a Clinical Psychologist in India. Her story, rooted in hard work, persistence, and academic excellence, was highly relatable and insightful for the audience.
2. Gopika Raj
   • Licensed Psychologist, Ministry of Health, Abu Dhabi
   • Ms. Gopika shared her inspirational journey of passion and dedication to becoming a psychologist. She discussed the experiences and challenges she overcame to achieve her dream, offering valuable guidance to participants.

Both speakers provided attendees with practical advice and motivation to pursue careers in psychology, emphasizing the importance of resilience, passion, and lifelong learning.

The speakers engaged with the audience during the Q&A session, addressing questions with valuable insights and practical suggestions for academic and professional growth.The webinar concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Alleluia Daima, a second-year M.Sc Psychology student, who expressed gratitude to the speakers, participants, and the organizing team for making the event a success.

Event Coordination

• Master of Ceremonies: Ms. Mehek, 2nd Year M.Sc Psychology
• Student Coordinator: Mr. Nadeem Safar
• Faculty Coordinator: Dr. Lijo K.J.

The webinar was a highly engaging and motivational session, offering participants valuable insights into the academic and professional journeys of successful psychologists. The department remains committed to organizing similar initiatives to inspire and guide students in their career paths.

Professor & Head                                                     Webinar Coordinator
Dr. Anita Rajah                                                                      Dr. Lijo K.J.

PsyConnect: Inspiring Pathways in Psychology
Department of Psychology, Rajagiri College of Social Sciences (Autonomous), Ernakulam, Kerala, India
Date: 30th November 2024
Time: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM

The Department of Psychology, in collaboration with Psystar (Psychology Student Association), successfully conducted the first webinar of PsyConnect: Inspiring Pathways in Psychology, focusing on academic life and career opportunities in Psychology and Behavioral Sciences in the United Kingdom and Italy. The event commenced with a warm welcome by Ms. Agnes Babu, a second-year M.Sc Psychology student, setting a positive and engaging tone for the webinar. Dr. Anita Rajah, Head of the Department of Psychology, delivered the inaugural address, emphasizing the significance of alumni connections and the role of webinars like these in exploring academic and professional opportunities abroad.Ms. Vrinda Roshan, a second-year B.Sc Psychology student, introduced the distinguished alumni speakers, who shared their journeys and experiences in studying and working in the United Kingdom and Italy. The first speaker was Mr. Anirudh Anil (M.Sc Psychology, Rajagiri; M.Sc Applied Neuropsychology, University of Bristol, UK). Mr. Anirudh shared insights into clinical psychology programs in the UK, emphasizing academic rigor, scholarships, mentorship opportunities, and the support system available for international students. The second speaker was  Ms. Sandra Sasikumar (Founder of Sawin Collective; B.Sc Psychology, Rajagiri; M.Sc Applied Psychology, Central University of Pondicherry; M.Sc Clinical Neuropsychology and Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Padova, Italy). Ms. Sandra elaborated on her decision to pursue a second postgraduate program in neuropsychology in Italy, providing detailed guidance on admission procedures, challenges, and risks associated with studying abroad. The speakers addressed queries from the audience, providing practical advice and valuable insights into navigating academic and professional pathways in foreign countries. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Shivada V.S., a second-year B.Sc Psychology student, who expressed gratitude to the speakers, organizers, and participants for making the event a success.

Event Coordination

• Master of Ceremonies: Mr. Nadeem Safar, 2nd Year M.Sc Psychology
• Student Coordinator: Ms. Shivada V.S.
• Faculty Coordinator: Dr. Lijo K.J.

The webinar was an engaging and informative session, providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of the academic and professional landscapes in the United Kingdom and Italy. The department looks forward to organizing more such initiatives to inspire and guide students in their psychology careers.

Professor & Head                                                      Webinar Coordinator

Dr Anita Rajah                                                               Dr Lijo K J

The Rajagiri Centre for Behavioral Science and research conducted a two days’ in-house workshop on Neuropsychological testing and Psychology Experiment Building Language (PEBL) for the faculty members and students of Under Graduate and Post Graduate Psychology Programs on 28^th and 29^th August 2017.

The Rajagiri Centre for Behavioral Science and research conducted a one day workshop on Street Play and Psychodrama for the students of under graduate and post graduate Psychology Programs on 28^th August 2017. The workshop started by invoking the blessings of the Almighty followed by the welcome speech by Fr. Dr. Varghese K Varghese, Dean, RCBSR. Dr. Joseph I Injodey, Executive Director, RCSS, inaugurated the workshop. The resource persons for the workshop was Dr. Sudish N T, Assistant Professor, The Department of Psychology, Christ University, Bangalore.

Psyesta – a national level Psychological fest is the flagship event of the psychology department. The annual National Psychology Fest (Psyesta) that covers various psychology related events for students across India is mainly conducted by the students under the guidance of the faculty members. This plays an immense role in improving their skills in the subject, as well as their managerial skill. The goal of the fest to showcase the academic as well as non – academic skills of psychology students, to create a platform for mutual interactions and sharing of experience and to enthuse and inspire young people and to create awareness on social responsibility.