Holistic Personality Development Certificate Course: Inaugural Ceremony and First Session*

From November 7th to November 15th, a Holistic Personality Development Certificate Course was conducted for undergraduate students, aimed at nurturing their personal growth and enhancing their life skills. This transformative journey commenced with an engaging inauguration on November 7th, which set the tone for the rest of the program.

The inaugural session began with a traditional Jyoti Avahan, followed by Vedic chanting performed by the students. This spiritual beginning infused the event with a sense of reverence and cultural richness. The warm welcome address was delivered by Dr. Niharika Das, the principal of the institution. Her words emphasized the importance of holistic development in nurturing well-rounded individuals capable of facing life’s challenges.

The coordinator of the course, Dr. Mrunmayee Rath, who is also a reader in philosophy, took the stage next to introduce the esteemed guests. She highlighted the significance of the course and the vision behind it, aiming to empower students through personal and professional growth. The guest of honor for the day was Sri Pratap Chandra Panda, the District President of the Sathya Sai Seva Organization, Bhubaneswar. In his inaugural address, he spoke eloquently about the essence of personality development and its relevance in contemporary society.

Following Sri Panda, Dr. Nayantara Chhotray, the Director of the Sri Sathya Sai Centre for Human Excellence, shared insights about the course curriculum and guidelines. She provided valuable information regarding the objectives of the program, encouraging students to embrace the learning opportunities ahead with enthusiasm and an open mind. Her address was not only informative but also motivated students to view the course as a stepping stone toward their holistic development.

Sri B. Sunil Kumar Rath, the former president of the Governing Body, played a crucial role in arranging and coordinating the course, ensuring that everything was in place for a successful launch. His dedication to student welfare and development was evident throughout the session.

As a token of appreciation, the principal honored the guests with mementos, acknowledging their contributions and support in making the event a success. The inaugural function transitioned seamlessly into the first session of the course, which focused on the topic, “Personality Development: Facing the Challenges of Modernity.”

The resource person for this session, Dr. Priyambada Pattanaik, a member of the Sathya Sai Book and Publication Trust, delivered an engaging and insightful talk. Her presentation not only addressed the key aspects of personality development but also equipped students with practical strategies to navigate the complexities of modern life. The session was interactive, concluding with a lively question and answer segment where students engaged with Dr. Pattanaik, further enhancing their understanding of the topic.

The session wrapped up with concluding remarks from Smt. Smita Biswal, a reader in sociology, who encapsulated the essence of the discussions and encouraged students to apply the learning in their everyday lives. The inaugural event and the first session ended with the chanting of a Shanti Mantra, fostering a sense of peace and tranquility among all participants.

The Holistic Personality Development Certificate Course promises to be a valuable experience for the students, paving the way for their growth as confident, competent, and compassionate individuals, ready to take on the challenges of the future.