Sacred Heart College (Autonomous), Chalakudy, is committed to the holistic development of its students and the community it serves. The Extension and Outreach Policy aims to establish guidelines and frameworks to encourage and organize extension and outreach activities that align with the college’s mission and values.
Objectives
- To promote social responsibility and community engagement among students and staff.
- To foster partnerships with local, national, and international communities.
- To enhance the practical application of academic knowledge for societal benefit.
- To support sustainable development goals through active participation in community services.
Scope
This policy applies to all staff, and students of Sacred Heart College (Autonomous), as well as any external partners involved in outreach activities.
Key Areas of Focus
- Conduct workshops, seminars, and training sessions for local schools and communities.
- Organize health camps, awareness programs, and wellness initiatives.
- Promote activities like tree planting, waste management, and conservation projects.
- Engage in programmes aimed at improving livelihoods, providing vocational training, and supporting local businesses.
- Facilitate cultural programmes and exchanges to promote mutual understanding and appreciation of diverse traditions.
Implementation Framework
Planning
- Identify community needs through surveys and consultations.
- Develop a yearly outreach plan with specific goals and activities.
Collaboration
- Partner with government agencies, NGOs, and other educational institutions.
- Establish Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with key partners.
Execution
- Form dedicated committees or task forces for different outreach projects.
- Allocate resources, including funding, human resources, and materials, for the implementation of activities.
Monitoring and Evaluation
- Set measurable outcomes for each activity.
- Periodically review progress and impact through reports and feedback sessions.
- Adjust plans based on evaluations to improve future activities.
Roles and Responsibilities
Extension and Outreach Committee
- Oversee the planning, implementation, and monitoring of outreach activities.
- Ensure alignment with college objectives and values.
Faculty and Staff
- Participate actively in outreach initiatives.
- Integrate community service into academic curricula wherever applicable.
Students
- Engage in outreach activities as part of their personal and professional development.
- Uphold the values of service and responsibility during participation.
Partners
- Collaborate in planning and executing activities.
- Provide resources and expertise to support outreach initiatives.
Funding and Resources
- Seek external funding through grants, donations, and sponsorships.
- Utilize college resources, including facilities and equipment, to support outreach efforts.
Communication and Reporting
- Maintain transparent communication with all stakeholders.
- Publicize outreach activities and their impacts through the college website, newsletters, and social media.
- Prepare annual reports on outreach activities and present them to the college administration and stakeholders.
Ethical Considerations
- Ensure all activities respect the dignity and rights of individuals and communities.
- Promote inclusivity and non-discrimination in all outreach efforts.
- Uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
Review and Amendments
- Conduct periodic reviews of the policy.
- Update the policy as needed to reflect changes in community needs, college objectives, or external environments.
- Obtain approval from the college administration for any amendments to the policy.
In effect, the Extension and Outreach Policy of Sacred Heart College (Autonomous), Chalakudy, embodies our commitment to fostering a culture of community engagement and social responsibility. By implementing this policy, we aim to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical societal needs, enriching both our students and the communities we serve.
