Take RIGHT TURN For life project
ERNAKULAM DISTRICT -PHASE I
The Association for Social Development Suhruth Sadan (ASDSS), in collaboration with DREAM, Kochi, was launched “Take RIGHT TURN for Life,” a comprehensive project promoting positive addictions as a powerful tool to combat negative ones. As phase one this project established in 20 schools and 10 colleges in Ernakulam district. This initiative focuses on empowering children and youth by fostering their engagement in activities that nurture well-being and personal growth, such as sports, arts, and community service. By cultivating these “positive addictions,” the project aims to instil a sense of self-worth, resilience, and optimism. This positive outlook, in turn, equips them to become agents of change, advocating against negative addictions and contributing to a healthier, more vibrant society. The project’s essence is captured in the tagline “jeeevithamanu lahari kudumbamanu lahari kazhivukalanu lahari” (Let life become an addiction, let family become an addiction, let living become an addiction). A mass campaign was also kick off on January 3rd, 2024, which marked the project’s launch, featuring a mega rally, a public meeting, and an award ceremony.
“Take RIGHT TURN for Life” strives to achieve several key objectives:
- Promote positive addictions and healthy lifestyle choices.
- Educate children and youth about the dangers of negative addictions
- Empower them to advocate for positive change.
- Create a ripple effect of positive change within society.
- Influence policy changes to address negative addiction.
By fostering positive addictions, ASDSS and DREAM aim to empower future generations to build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
ONE DAY WORKSHOP
The Association for Social Development Suhruth Sadan (ASDSS) partnered with DREAM Kochi to organize a comprehensive workshop on drug addiction and illicit trafficking under the banner of project named “Take RIGHT TURN for life’. Held on July 28th, 2023, the session attracted 50 students and teachers eager to learn and become advocates against these issues. Following an opening prayer and welcome address by ASDSS president Sr. Josna S.D, the workshop diverged into separate sessions. Mr. Babu John P (SI of Police, coordinator Dist. children And Police Kochi City) addressed the student audience, while Mr. Shibin Shaji Varghese, District Coordinator of DREAM Kochi, focused on equipping teachers. The day included presentations by experts, engaging group activities, and interactive discussions. By the workshop’s conclusion at 4:00 pm, both students and teachers had gained valuable knowledge about the causes and consequences of addiction. They even received training to become ambassadors, ready to lead anti-drug clubs and spread awareness within their communities.
MENTORS TRAINING PROGRAM
To empower educators in supporting students battling negative addictions, a comprehensive membership training program was conducted under the “Take RIGHT TURN for Life” project. Recognizing the critical role teachers play, this program equips them with the necessary skills for early intervention and guidance. The training provided valuable insights for teachers on identifying students struggling with addiction. Bansuri T.K (community social worker), delivered the welcome address, followed by a productive session led by Mr. Babu John P (SI of Police, coordinator Dist. children And Police Kochi City). The afternoon session delved deeper with Shibin Shaji Varghese (District Coordinator, DREAM Kochi), Aparna (Counselor, DREAM Kochi), and Aleena Thomas (Project Coordinator) facilitating discussions. Dona (Case Worker, DREAM Kochi) concluded the program by expressing gratitude and distributing certificates to all participants.
MASS CAMPAIGN
On January 3rd, the “Take RIGHT TURN for Life” project hosted a captivating mass campaign at the Austin Hall near St. Augustine’s GHSS in Kuzhupilly. The event aimed to promote positive addictions and healthy lifestyle choices among children and youth, empowering them to combat negative influences. The day began with a vibrant mega rally flagged off by Panchayat President Sri. Nibin A.S. The rally, organized jointly by the Association for Social Development Suhruth Sadan and Don Bosco’s DREAM Kochi, saw enthusiastic participation from students as various teams. The procession started from the Panchayat ground and culminated at the Austin Hall.
A mesmerizing flash mob performance by students of St. Joseph’s TTI College added to the excitement. The gathering then moved to the hall for a public meeting. Sister Ancy Abraham S.D., Program Officer of Suhruth Sadan, welcomed the participants. Sister Divya Mundakkal (Secretary, ASDSS) presided over the meeting, and Police Inspector Sri. Yesudas A.L. inaugurated the event. Other speakers included Fr. Kuriakose Mundadan, Vicar of St. Augustine’s Church; Fr. Thomas P.D. of DREAM Kochi; and PTA President Sri. Alex. A special session was conducted by Sri. Babu P. John, Kochi City District Child and Police Coordinator, for students and teachers, focusing on crucial life skills.
The winners of various competitions were felicitated during the ceremony. The Maria English Medium School, Mundamvely, was recognized as the Best Unit at the school level, while St. Joseph’s TTI, Ernakulam, received the Best Unit award at the college level. The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Sri. Shibin Shaji Varghese, Coordinator of DREAM Kochi. The mass campaign successfully brought together 600 students from 30 educational institutions across Ernakulam district, inspiring them to embrace positive choices and contribute to a healthier society.
THIRSSUR DISTRICT - PHASE ONE
The “Take RIGHT TURN for life” project has widen its activities to Thrissur district. The inauguration was done at Divine Institute of Media Science Muringoor by ASDSS secretary Sr Ancy Maniyamkott SD. The project coordinator Ms. Aleena Thomas has taken the awareness session and community social worker Ms. Mariya Babu has given the project introduction. After noon session was conducted at St. Antony’s HSS Mala.
