The NSS unit of Government College of Education, Sector 20D, Chandigarh successfully concluded its 7-day special camp (24th to 30th September 2024) with a grand valedictory function held at campus today. The camp was an enriching experience for the volunteers and contributed significantly to community service and self-development.
The function started with shabad gayan and formal welcome of the Chief Guest- Dr. Nemi Chand, State Liason Officer and Prof. Praveen Goyal, NSS Coordinator, Panjab University, Chandigarh & Dr. Sonia Sharma, Master Trainer and Programme Officer, Panjab University, Chandigarh by the Principal of the college Dr. Sapna nanda. Dr. Nanda shared that the program functions under the motto “Not me but you” in full spirit.
The theme of this year’s camp was, ‘Swachhta Hi Seva & Health and Hygiene’ emphasizing the importance of cleanliness both in terms of personal habits and community service. Dr. Nemi Chand in his address lauded the efforts of the NSS team and emphasized the importance of youth involvement in social causes.
He also congratulated the NSS program officers for successful conduct of the camp. NSS Program Officer, Dr. Balwinder Kaur shared the seven day activities with the guest. The camp was inaugurated by Mr. Vivek Atray, Ex IAS Officer and Motivational speaker, who encouraged the volunteers to take up the responsibility of nation-building through service.
Followed by session on “orienting pupil teachers on social work” and poster making competition and heats of indoor games. On the second day, a self-defense class was conducted at the college to empower students with skills for personal safety, emphasizing both physical techniques and mental preparedness. Additionally, the college team visited Village Khajeri and local school to raise awareness about dengue prevention.
They conducted door-to-door interactions, and distributed pamphlets on sanitation and mosquito control. The third day began with a cyber security session by Cyber Soldiers, highlighting strategies to protect digital spaces and urging participants to remain informed and vigilant against cyber threats.
The importance of vigilance, integrity, and public participation in combating corruption was also discussed. Fourth day was on drug and substance abuse and the nutritional and environmental benefits of millets sessions.
On the fifth day of the NSS, sessions on meditation techniques for mental well-being, emphasizing mindfulness, stress reduction, importance of traffic safety and following road rules & fire safety awareness and preparedness was organized. On day six, a session on "Water Toxicity," explaining the impact of water pollution on aquatic ecosystems, human health, and the environment was held.
The concluding day was marked by blood donation camp at Khajeri Village, awareness drive at Dispensary of Sector 20, Chandigarh and a millet recipe competition held at college followed by cultural bonanza whereby students presented cultural items such as dance, songs, nukkad natak etc.
The NSS volunteers also shared their experiences from the camp. Certificates of appreciation were distributed to some volunteers for their exemplary contribution throughout the camp. A formal vote of thanks was proposed by NSS Program Officer, Dr. Balwinder Kaur expressing gratitude to the guests, volunteers, staff, and the community for their support.
The layout of the camp was prepared by Program officers Dr. Balwinder Kaur, Dr. Aarti Bhatt and Dr. Upasana Thapliyal. The 7-day NSS camp not only instilled a sense of responsibility and leadership among the volunteers but also positively impacted the local community. The camp concluded with a renewed commitment from the volunteers to continue their service to society.