Page 26 - MAGICS ANUAL REPORT 2015-16

Proposed Programs at Sacred Heart College, Thevara (Phase-I)

1. Basic computer training / Introduction to IT
Many older persons have come up with a request for learning basic computer skills such as browsing
internet, sending email, making an online call, net banking, typing a document etc. The computer
training centers available at present are generally not interested in helping older people who are

otherwise naive to technology. Lot of patience and empathy is required for the teachers training
such older persons – the same way a pre-primary teacher teaches basics for a child.
Computer class are arranged in the computer lab of the college after the regular classes are over.
Student volunteers with an aptitude of teaching and empathy are teach the basics of computers
with the guidance of teachers now. Students getting benefit from volunteerism and are getting an
exposure to teaching. Thus this is became sustainable model, and are getting replicated in other

colleges popularly as age friendly college a “Sacred Heart Model”.
1. Provided elders opportunities for sharing experiences through interchange of mails and
participating in discussions with similar active ageing groups registered under the main concept
U3A in Age-Friendly Ernakulam through conducting tour programs and other awareness
programs .

Ÿ Inter-generational Picnics / Study tours
Loneliness and depression are the leading morbidities in aged persons which get aggravated with
their shrinking networks and physical disabilities. Opportunities for improving their mental health
are one of the key to healthy ageing and a solution to most of their personal issues and within the
family. Leisure time activities and tour programs in a multi generation setting offer them respite,
high quality recreation and a learning experience to lead a better life. One-day picnics and visit to
SH college are organized with support of student volunteers where older persons got an

opportunity to tour with younger generations.
Ÿ Discussion forums with older people / Retirees
Discussions / focus groups on selected topics are organized in the college campus where students
participated along with persons representing older generations. The output of the discussions and
interactions was of great relevance for academicians, sociologists and now it is been used as an

advocacy tool to suggest social policies.
1. To create conditions for the elderly that help them to continue learning and working in later years
thereby remain self-relevant and independent.
Ÿ Establishing a knowledge Hub in Education
Older persons are considered as treasure of wisdom and experiences. Under the auspice of Sacred
Heart College, there can be a resource pool of scholars, academicians, retired teachers and

professionals. The resources may be accessible to all and especially in relation to education and
in enhancing skills.
Ÿ Developing courses modules for senior citizens
Need based and Targeted course modules are prepared in consultation with academicians and
experts in each field. Training retired teachers in remedial teaching, training in job oriented

software such as accounting software, DTP, Audio/ video/photo editing are under consideration.
Opportunities for older persons to undergo a course which they wished and missed out may be
considered on eligibility basis. An employment exchange dedicated for older persons is planned in
the subsequent phase that will help senior citizens to apply for job positions or be active and
productive throughout their life.