KCYM Pottakuzhy Hosts Two-Day ‘Manchadi’ Camp to Empower Tribal Students at Kuttampuzha

Kuttampuzha, 2 June, 2025 – The Kerala Catholic Youth Movement (KCYM) Pottakuzhy Unit organised a two-day educational camp, ‘Manchadi’, on May 24 and 25 at the Kuttampuzha Tribal Shelter. The initiative, held for students from the Idamalayar Tribal Extension Office’s social learning centres, aimed to promote holistic learning through interactive activities and the distribution of educational materials under the "Karuthal" Education Project.

Kuttampuzha Panchayat President Mr. Kanthi Vellakkayan formally inaugurated the camp, which was attended by Tribal Extension Officer Ms. Anna Paul and a committed team of facilitators from Elamblassery, Pinavurkudy, and Vellarankuthu centres — Ms. Rosamma John, Ms. Athira Raman, and Ms. Raji P.R. Also in attendance were KCYM Kaloor Regional President Mr. Amal George, Pottakuzhy Unit Animator Mr. Jose Peter, Camp Coordinator Ms. Ann Gloria Gomez, and executive members of the KCYM Pottakuzhy Unit. 

Over 70 students participated in the camp, which featured engaging sessions designed to foster creativity, confidence, and collaboration. An initial ice-breaking session, led by Mr. Amal George, saw children being divided into teams and introduced to interactive games to foster camaraderie and enthusiasm.

A significant segment of the programme was the awareness session on “Good Touch and Bad Touch”, conducted by Childline social workers Ms. Litty and Mr. Ashwin. This session played a crucial role in educating children on personal safety and boundaries.

Under the guidance of Ms. Ann Gloria Gomez and Mr. Amal George, the camp emphasised holistic skill development through a series of games and activities aimed at enhancing self-confidence, teamwork, efficiency, and communication among the participants.

The camp concluded with a prize distribution ceremony honouring the best-performing teams. Awards were presented by KCYM Pottakuzhy Unit President Mr. Alan Antony, Secretary Ms. Anna Theresa Sharon, and Education Forum Convener Mr. Alan Ashley.

The “Manchadi” learning camp stands as a shining example of youth-led community engagement and educational outreach in tribal regions, marking another milestone in KCYM’s commitment to social upliftment and inclusive education.

By Anna Theresa Sharon

Secretary, KCYM Pottakuzhy