AICUF KARNATAKA HISTORY
The AICUF unit in Karnataka has a long tradition of selfless service. Right from its inception, AICUF plays a major role in moulding young Catholic leaders in all walks of life. A glimpse of their achievements would reveal its progress in its commitment.
In the year 1948, A Regional Conference of the SICUF was held at Mount Carmel College, Bangalore on 7th November under the Presidentship of Rev. Fr P Ambrose OFM, Rev. Fr M Antoine, and the Principal. They outlined the activities of that unit of the federation.
The inaugural meeting of the CSU was held at Aloysius College, Mangalore on 31st July.
In the year 1959, The CSU unit was inaugurated at St Aloysius College, Mangalore. More than four hundred students, including the members of other CSU units of Mangalore, attended the meeting.
In the year 1971, A survey was under taken by St Joseph’s Arts and Science College, Bangalore, on the conditions of rag pickers and dust bin dwellers.
AICUF REVIVAL
After a long gap in terms of AICUF activities because of ideological differences, AICUF was revived in Karnataka in the late 1980s. The persons who took immense efforts to build up AICUF in Karnataka were Fr Ambrose Pinto SJ, Fr Swebert D’Silva SJ, Fr Francis D’ Almeida SJ, Fr Daniel Fernandes SJ and Dr Paul Newman.
In the year 1992, December – 10,000 Christian students formed a human chain against the demolition of Babri Masjid. All the units of the Catholic Students Associations and AICUF of Bangalore city colleges formed a common organization, called Bangalore Catholic Students’ Association (BACSA).
In the year 1996, BACSA which had applied for affiliation in the year 1995, was officially invited to attend the AICUF National Council 1996. The Council gave consent to the affiliation of BACSA.
In the year 1998, A five-day national seminar on ‘Refugees and Displacement’ was held at ISI, Bangalore from 25th – 30th May. The seminar focused on the changing scenario of the refugees in the context of displacement, globalization and attempted to make the students aware of the realities. It was organized by UNHCR, JRS and AICUF.
In the year 1999-2000, Sonia Dominica from St. Anne's Degree College (Millers road), Bangalore was the first woman from Karnataka to be appointed as the National Team Convener.
In the year 2000-2001, John Shanth Kumar Joseph from St. Joseph’s Evening College was appointed as the NT member from Karnataka.
In the year 2001-2002, The State Convention was organized by the Bangalore Region. The AICUF-Karnataka State council was organized after a long time at REDS, Tumkur. A work camp for the AICUFer’s was organized at St. Aloysius Boys home, Nehru Nagar. Dalit Students Leadership Camp was conducted at REDS in Tumkur. John from St. Joseph’s Evening College and Sonia Dominica from St. Anne ‘s College (Millers road), Bangalore were appointed as the National Full-timers for the academic year 2001-02.
A National Summer camp was organized on the theme, “Saffronization of education”.
Together with other solidarity groups, AICUF observed anti-nuclear day.
A candle light vigil was organized by AICUF to condemn the attacks by the American and allied forces in the middle East.
Two-day state convention on Higher Education, “Haunting Challenges and Possible Solutions” was held.
In the year 2002-2003, The Rural Exposure Camp held from 8th to 10th September 2002 at REDS, Tumkur (Rural Education for Development Society).
Suresh from St. Joseph’s Arts and Science College, Bangalore was appointed as the State Full-timer.
The Women’s Commission Meeting held on 22nd to 24th November 2002 at REDS, Tumkur.
John Shanth Kumar Joseph from St. Joseph’s Evening College, Bangalore, a representative of AICUF in the International Movement of Catholic Students (Pax Romana) was appointed as the Asia Specific Coordinator at Philippines from 2002 to 2005.
In the year 2003-2004, AICUFer’s visited the women’s cell of the central jail on 20th September, 2003.
A seminar on “The Effects of Globalization on Education” was conducted on 4th Oct, 2004.
Celebrated Children’s day with the Street children, child laborers, children at Kidwai Cancer Institute, Bangalore.
In collaboration with REDS, Children’s Day Program was organized at Austin Town in Bangalore.
Suman from St. Joseph’s Evening College was appointed as the NC member.
A week long residential program to revitalize AICUF unit was organized in the month of May, 2004.
AICUFer’s in Bangalore supported Kokila, a eunuch who was raped by 10 goondas and later humiliated and sexually abused in the police station by the police.
Participated in a rally protesting the “Armed Forces (Special powers) Act - 1958.”
In the year 2004-2005, AICUF Karnataka organized a seminar on “Sensitizing students for the revival of AICUF” at Ashirwad on 11th & 12th of September 2004.
Two AICUFer’s from Bangalore accompanied a group from SCMI (Student Christian Movement of India) to visit Plachimada in Kerala, which was facing the brunt of commercialization of water. After the visit an organization was formed called “Youth Against Globalization”.
Bangalore Women Convention was held on “Identity in Solidarity” on 27th November, 2004.
15 Women AICUFer’s attended the First National Women’s Convention held at Ahmadabad from 29th Dec, 2004 to 1st Jan, 2005.
AICUFer’s were unhappy that they didn’t have a State Advisor during this period.
Suman from St. Joseph’s Evening College was appointed as the National Full-timer for the academic year 2004-2005.
In the year 2006-2007, The AICUFer’s at St. Aloysius College, Mangalore, participated in the Water Shed Management Program.
The AICUFer’s at St. Joseph’s Evening College actively participated to bring awareness on Narmada Bachao Andolan.
AICUFer’s at St. Joseph’s Arts and Science College actively involved in the movement to save Baba Budangiri in Chikmagalur Districts.
In the year 2007-2008, Fr Francis D’Almeida SJ was officially appointed the State Advisor of AICUF-Karnataka.
A Seminar on “Know AICUF” was held at Jyothi Nivas College, Bangalore on 16th September, 2007 for all the AICUFer’s of Bangalore Colleges.
A Seminar on Special Economic Zone was held at St. Aloysius College, Mangalore on 30th Sept, 2007.
The first issue of the newsletter of Karnataka AICUF titled “AICUF AVENUE” was brought out in the month of November, 2007.
A State Level Convention was organized by Karnataka AICUF from 12th January to 15th January 2008 at Fatima Retreat House, Mangalore in which 130 students from 23 colleges participated.
A follow up program of State Level Convention was held on 16th Feb, 2008, in which 40 students participated.
In the year 2008-2009, A seminar cum workshop was organized by the Karnataka AICUF Secretariat on the theme, “Right to Information” on 28th September, 2008 at St Aloysius College, Mangalore
A National level Seminar on, “University Students and Civil Society” was organized by the Karnataka AICUF Secretariat from 27th to 29th November, 2008.
In the year 2009-2010, A State Convention of AICUF Karnataka was organized on “Redefining the Future: The Role of Youth Today” on the 28th December, 2009 at St. Aloysius College Mangalore.
In the year 2011-2012, Fr Brian Pereira SJ succeeded Fr Francis Almeida SJ as the State Advisor for Karnataka AICUF.
A State Level Seminar on “Youth Challenges and Opportunities” was organized by the Karnataka AICUF Secretariat along with the Mid-Council election on the 18th and 19th June, 2011.
The Karnataka AICUF Secretariat organized State Congress on the theme “United we Rise to Fight Evil and Build Bridges of Love” from 25th to 27th November, 2011 for the first time in the history of Karnataka AICUF. Nearly 350 participants from more than 20 units took part in the event.
A leadership skills training programme was organized for the future leaders of AICUF on 18th and 19th February, 2012 at Ashirwad, Bangalore.
Fr Brian Pereira SJ, the state advisor along with Bernadine, an AICUFer represented Karnataka AICUF unit in the World Youth Day organized at Madrid in Spain in the month of August, 2011.
AICUFer’s in collaboration with Ignitors Association organized an Integral Formation Program at various Jesuit Colleges in Karnataka.
National summer camp was held at Pannur in Raichur District on the theme “Gender Realities” from 5th to 8th June 2012.
Ms Lizzel Pinto from St. Aloysius College, Mangalore was appointed as the National Women Commission Convener.
The AICUF Secretariat was shifted from Mangalore to Bangalore and A proper documentation center was established at AICUF Secretariat.
In the year 2012-2013, AICUF State-Meet was held in Mangalore from 8th to 10th December 2012 on the theme “Unite to Ignite New Hope.” 350 AICUFers from different parts of Karnataka participated in the State-Meet.
A rally on Human Rights was organized on 10th December, 2012 in Mangalore on the theme, “Youth for Human Rights”.
AICUFer’s contributed towards organizing a Mega Jesuit youth retreat called “MAGIS” from 1st to 5th November 2012.
AICUF band was established to conduct praise and worship in Colleges and Parishes.
New AICUF Unit was established in St. Pius X Church, Kammanahalli in Bangalore.
AICUFer’s in collaboration with Ignitors Association were instrumental in organizing an Integral Formation Program at various Jesuit Colleges in Karnataka.
The AICUF-Karnataka State Policy document was ratified at the 24th National Council held in Chennai from 13th to 17th August, 2012.
National Summer Camp on the theme, ‘Gender Assertion’ was organized at ISI, Bangalore from 17th to 21st May 2013.
Fr Brian Pereira SJ, the State Advisor for AICUF, along with Mr Cyril Prabhu, the State Full-timer and Ms Lizelle Pinto the National Women’s Commission Convener attended World Youth Day Celebration held in Brazil during the month of July, 2013.
In the year 2013-2014, AICUF Secretariat organized a rural exposure camp for all the AICUFer’s of Bangalore from 24th to 28th October, 2013 at Mundgod Taluk in Uttara Kannada District of Karnataka.
St Joseph’s College of Commerce organized a Karnataka AICUF State-Meet 2014 from 12th to 14th Jan, 2014 on the theme “Active Citizenship for an Inclusive Society”.
250 AICUF members from all over the state attended the state meet and actively participated in various events such as, creating eco-friendly awareness at various traffic signals, cleanliness drive and signature campaign against privatization of water.
In the year 2015-2016,
VISIT TO HIV SCHOOL FOR CHILDREN - On 14th Jan 2016, we had some of the AICUFer’s from different AICUF units who had part in visiting Sneha Dhan - HIV school for Children and started the AICUF activity by sharing the love, conduction some games, distributing chocolates etc. Solar energy awareness programme
On 16th Jan 2016, AICUFer’s of St Joseph’s College also conducted a solar energy awareness programme within the colleges about the benefits of solar energy.
CLEANING DRIVE AT LALBAGH - AICUFer’s also organized and took part in the cleanliness drive in Lalbagh Botanical garden from 16-26 January, 2016 with aim of keeping the city clean
PROTEST AT TOWN HALL FOR ROHITH VEMULA - On 25th January 2016, AICUFer’s of different AICUF units in Bangalore also took part in the Protest at Bangalore Town hall for Rohith Vemula, in order to support the Dalits, they were about 150 + AICUFer’s who had part took part the protest.
JANUARY 26 2016 - REPUBLIC DAY - On Jan 26th 2016, Republic Day, the AICUFer’s of different colleges had organized Flag Hoisting Programme in different places such has colleges, Slums, Homes etc, and shared the happiness among the people.
30TH JANUARY 2016 - Adonai 2016, a state level Inter-Collegiate Gospel Fest was held at St. Joseph’s Evening College on 30th January 2016. After a great success of first year we had continued with a same spirit, and it was great success too. Student had come different part from Bangalore and other parts of Karnataka. This was a great chance to showcase the priceless and precious talents of students and to impart spiritual knowledge and reach out to God through various events that had been conducted in the college. We concluded the fest with the praise and worshiping the God by Singing and dancing.
MARCH - Harmonia –An inter religious and inter college cultural fest was organized by AICUFer’s of St Joseph’s College in order to promote unity among the students, where students from different took part.
APRIL - AICUF - KARNATAKA RURAL EXPOSURE CAMP 2016
AICUF rural exposure camp was conducted by AICUF Karnataka in Marlahalli, where about 45 AICUFer’s from different units took active part in camp, they were involved in creating awareness to the villagers about the Importance of education, woman empowerment, cleanliness via street plays, Cultural programmes, cleanliness drive in the village etc. we had also conducted a Mega Health Check Up camp in collaboration with NSUI , which helped the people.
JUNE - Ignitors-2016, Soft Skills training programme In the month of June, Ignitors Programme was conducted in Different college where our AICUFer’s played a major part in organizing and volunteering.
JULY - AICUF STATE COUNCIL 2016 was held in St Joseph’s College on 9 & 10 JULY in order to elect the AICUF ex council for the year 2016 and plan activities and programmes for the year, where AICUFer’s from all AICUF units took part and represented their units.
In the year 2016-2017,
INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION: The AICUFer’s of Karnataka from various colleges celebrated the Independence Day on the 15th August, 2016 in different places like villages, orphanages, slums, etc. The AICUFer’s of Bangalore hoisted the National Flag at Siddapura slum in Bangalore. Later, they addressed the people on various issues of national concern and also conducted games, cultural programmes and distributed gifts and chocolates for the slum children.
KILL BILL CAMPAIGN: Kill bill campaign with the theme “Cleaner Bangalore” was organized by the AICUFer’s of Bangalore Zone in the month of August 2016. The AICUFer’s went around the public squares and removed illegal flexes, boards, posters and banners that were creating visual pollution in the surroundings.
STATE TEAM’s VISITS TO THE AICUF UNITS: Fr. Brian Pereira SJ, the AICUF State Advisor and the State team members (Mr. Ebenezer Sam and Dr Isaac) visited different AICUF Units in the months of August, September and October 2016 to encourage and motivate the AICUFer’s to take forward the vision and mission of AICUF in their local units. During their visits, the AICUF State Advisor and the State Team members met the Principals, the Staff Animators and the students and made presentations on the history and constitution of AICUF and shared their insights on the various programmes and activities that could be organized locally.
HUNGER DRIVE IN MANGALORE: AICUFer’s of Mangalore Zone organized a Hunger Drive on the 11th September 2016. The AICUFer’s pooled in their money; cooked food and distributed it to the needy in the slums and market places in and around Mangalore.
ANTI-SUICIDE CAMPAIGN – “SAY NO TO SUICIDE, SPEAK LIFE” - The AICUFer’s in collaboration with other groups organized an Anti-suicide campaign - Say No to Suicide, Speak Life” on September 22, 2016 at St. Joseph’s College, Bangalore. Similar programme was organized by the AICUFer’s of St. Anne’s College, Bangalore on October 2, 2016 to create awareness among the students and public, about the ways to overcome stress, trauma etc., and lead a meaningful life. A signature campaign was also conducted in public squares on Anti-suicide.
BLIND WALK: More than 500 AICUFer’s joined the Blind Walk organized by Project Vision on October 13, 2016. The AICUFer’s walked blindfolded from St John’s Hospital on Sarjapur road to Forum Mall in Koramangala, Bangalore. The blind walk was organized to create awareness on the importance of eye donation and to support visually challenged people. As a fruit of this initiative, many AICUFer’s pledged to donate their eyes.
PROTEST IN SUPPORT OF THE RIGHTS OF THE TRANSGENDER COMMUNITY: Around 200 AICUFer’s took part in a rally organized by an NGO run by Akkai Padmashali a transgender and other NGO’s on October 22, 2016 in Bangalore. The rally was organized to demand the rights of the Transgender Community in Karnataka. The AICUFer’s rendered their support for the rally by performing skits and street plays on how the rights of LGBT community have been deprived in the society.
RURAL EXPOSURE CAMP IN MANGALORE ZONE: The AICUFer’s of Mangalore Zone organized a Regional rural exposure Camp in November 2016. The primary objective of the camp was to make the AICUFer’s understand the hardships of the villagers in rural areas. They campers conducted cleanliness drives in the villages and created awareness through street plays and campaigns. The AICUFer’s also conducted games for the children and distributed gifts and clothes.
ICYM REGIONAL MEET: The AICUFer’s took part in the ICYM Regional Meet held in Bangalore on the 8th and 9th October, 2016 and presented the reports of AICUF activities. The AICUFer’s also discussed on the various activities that can be conducted in collaboration with ICYM and several other youth groups to address some the burning issues of the country.
MAGIS-2016: The AICUFer’s were instrumental in supporting the Jesuit Youth Ministry of South Asia to organize MAGIS-2016 at St Joseph’s College, Bangalore from November 3 to 7, 2016. More than 850 participants from 16 different states of India attended this youth formation program. The AICUFer’s played a vital role in coordinating various experiments, like visits to the orphanages and government schools, cleanliness drives on roads, painting KR Market etc. The AICUFer’s of several zones of Karnataka took care of the logistics of the entire MAGIS programme along with a few other youth organizations.
CHILDREN’S DAY PROGRAMME FOR ORPHANS: The AICUFer’s in collaboration with youth groups such as Janadhare and Ignitors organized Children’s Day celebration for the orphan children of Bosco Mane on 13th November, 2016 at St. Joseph’s School, Chamarajpet, Bangalore. The AICUFer’s were able to bring smiles on the faces of more than 350 orphan children by organizing a cultural programme and conducting games and sharing snacks in the end.
SAPLING PLANTATION PROGRAMME: As part of an Eco-drive, the AICUF Secretariat of Karnataka in collaboration with other youth groups organized Sapling Plantation Programme on 12th October 2016. The AICUFer’s planted several saplings in the campuses of 2 Government aided schools namely RBANMS girls’ school and Jyothi School in Bangalore. The Eco-drive was successful in creating awareness among the school children on the importance of protecting and nurturing our environment.
MOTHER THERESA WEEK: To mark the canonization of Mother Theresa and the Year of Mercy, the AICUFer’s of Bangalore zone organized Mother Theresa Week in the month of November 2017. As part of this week-long programme, many competitions such as essay writing, poetry writing, collage, mime, etc., were organized to encourage students to promote the ideals practiced and propagated by Mother Theresa and become agents of mercy.
AIDS AWARNESS PROGRAMME: The AICUFer’s observed World AIDS Day by organizing a rally and signature campaign on the 1st December, 2016. The purpose of the rally and signature campaign was to create awareness about HIV/ Aids to the public. The signature campaign was supported by more than 400 people which included Auto drivers, Bus drivers, Police, students, IT professionals, etc.
HUMAN RIGHTS DAY: Human Rights Day was observed by the AICUFer’s of different units of Karnataka on 10th December 2016. The students performed mimes and displayed charts depicting the quotations related to Human Rights in the college campuses.
BAL UTSAV-2016: The AICUFer’s in collaboration with Janadhare and Karnataka State Council for Child Welfare (KSCCW) organized Bal Utsav, a cultural competition for the mentally challenged and orphan children on 9th December 2016 at Bal bhavan in Cubbon Park, Bangalore. The AICUFer’s played a major role in organizing this event and brought about a positive impact on the lives of more than 400 children. The active participation of AICUFer’s was well appreciated by the Karnataka State Council for Child Welfare (KSCCW).
CHRISTMAS DAY CELEBRATION: The AICUFer’s of different units of Karnataka organized Christmas celebrations in several units through some meaningful celebrations. Some of the events included, cultural programmes for the inmates of Old Age Homes, orphanages, people living in HIV centers etc. In some units AICUFer’s distributed clothes and gifts to the needy.
AICUF STATE CONVENTION 2017: The Annual AICUF State Convention for the year 2016-17 was held at St. Aloysius College in Mangalore from 6th to 8th January, 2017. The theme of the convention was, “To Break down the walls of hostility and build bridges of Peace and Reconciliation”. Fr Stany D’Souza SJ, the Provincial of Karnataka Province inaugurated the event with the Holy Eucharist. Fr. Emmanuel – the National Advisor, Mr. Ruki from IMCS, Prof. Babu Mathew, Prof. Manoj Lewis and others addressed the AICUFer’s on various issues. Some cultural activities, sand castle competition and cleanliness drive in a Dalit village were organized as part of the convention. The Convention motivated nearly 400 AICUFer’s to fight against social injustices and contribute positively to the society.
NATIONAL YOUTH CONVENTION 2017: The AICUFer’s of Mangalore Zone participated in the National Youth Convention - 2017 held in Mangalore on 22nd January 2017. During the Convention, the AICUFer’s actively participated in the Historical Peace March to promote peace and harmony in the Country.
BALAMELA-2017: On 26th January 2017, the AICUFer’s organized BALAMELA for the underprivileged children. The programme was held at St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru. The BALAMELA was attended by more than 550 orphan children. The AICUFer’s played a major role in conducting different types of games and activities and distributing snacks for the children. This programme not only brought smiles on the faces of underprivileged children, but also provided an opportunity for the AICUFer’s to organize big events.
NATIONAL LEVEL SEMINAR: The AICUFer’s from different units of Bangalore participated in a National Level Seminar at Indian Social Institute (ISI), Benson town on 28th January 2017. The theme of the seminar was “Buffalo vs Cow- New Nationalism”. Mr. Kancha Iliah, the main speaker at the seminar enlightened the AICUFer’s to critically analyze the contemporary problems of our country.
AICUF NATIONAL LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME: The AICUFer’s of Karnataka actively participated in the National Leadership Development Programme organized by AICUF National Secretariat at Loyola College, Chennai from 4th to 6th February, 2017.
MARATHON IN SUPPORT OF PATIENTS SUFFERING FROM RARE DISAEASES: The Karnataka AICUF Secretariat collaborated with Organization for Rare Diseases in India (ORDI) in organizing a Marathon from St. Joseph’s Indian High School to Town Hall, Bangalore on the theme, “Race for; on 26th February, 2017. More than 2500 participants took part in the marathon and expressed their solidarity for the patients suffering from rare diseases. The members of the organization for rare diseases in India were very grateful and highly appreciative of the services rendered by our AICUFer’s.
PROTEST IN SUPPORT OF THE POWRAKHARMIKAS: A huge protest was organized on 3rd March, 2017 by Karnataka AICUF Secretariat in collaboration with “BEMBALA”, the Outreach Unit of St. Joseph’s College to support and fight for the rights of the Powrakarmikas (Dalits -Manual Scavengers, Street garbage Cleaners) at town Hall, Bangalore. More than 5000 students from different colleges marched from St. Joseph’s College, Bangalore to Town Hall to fight for the rights of Powrakarmikas. This rally bore testimony to the fact that AICUFer’s are always ready to March with the Marginalized.
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY: In order to promote gender equality and empower women to uphold their rights and to recognize the socio-economic, cultural and political achievements of women, most units of our State celebrated the International Women’s Day on 8th March, 2017. The celebration included competitions such as painting, rangoli, quiz and also panel discussions on relevant themes.
CAMPAIGN TO SAVE WATER: AICUFer’s from different Units participated in a rally organized by BBMP, BWSSB & Bangalore Water Warriors (NGO) on 25th March, 2017 under the banner, “Campaign to Save Water”. The main objective of the rally was to create awareness among the people about growing water problems in Bangalore City and to motivate the public to Save Water.
SUMMER CAMP: The Karnataka AICUF Secretariat organized a summer camp from 28th April to 1st May, 2017 in Solur Village in Ramanagaram district of Karnataka. The AICUFer’s engaged themselves in spreading awareness among the villagers on the importance of Education, Women Empowerment, Health and Hygiene and other issues through street plays, rallies and other programmes. The Rural Exposure Camp provided an excellent opportunity for the AICUFer’s to understand the ground realities of the villages.
INTERNATIONAL ASIA YOUTH CAMP: Five AICUFer’s from Karnataka took part in the International Asia Youth Camp 2017 held at Indian Social Institute, Bangalore from 20th to 25th May 2017. The theme of the camp was “EGO to ECO” and Climate change.
IGNATIAN WEEK 2017: The AICUFer’s of various Jesuit Colleges in Karnataka organized the ‘Ignatian Week – 2017’ during the last week of July 2017 to mark the feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus. The Ignatian week celebration included competitions such as story writing, portrait painting/sketching, collage, quiz, etc.
INTER-COLLEGIATE FESTS: In order to spread the love of Christ and Christian brotherhood, most of the AICUF units every year host State level inter-collegiate fests such as ADONAI, EXODUS, GENESIS, REVELATION, SHEKHINAH, etc. Competitions such as bible quiz, Collage, Singing, Choreography, Character Costume, Mime, etc., are conducted as part of the fests to promote the Word of God and the message of Jesus.
CAMP AT INDONESIA: Ms. Aleida and Mr. Ralen represented AICUF Karnataka at the International Camp organized by IMCS PAX ROMANA at Ende, Flores in Indonesia from 7th to 17th July 2017. The theme of the camp was “Students in Solidarity: reaching peripheries through social immersion and training sessions on Human Rights and Social Justice”. The camp was attended by 60 participants from different parts of the world. The camp included sessions on social justice, leadership skills, inter-cultural dialogue and an exposure programme in the village. The participants were also involved in the construction of a mosque as a symbol of promotion of peace and harmony among different communities in the world.
VISITING HOMES AND ORPHGANGES, TALKS AND LECTURES: Regular visits to Old Age Homes, Orphanages, Leprosy centers, Government Schools, Rehabilitation Centers, hospitals and Central Jails were organized as part of the outreach programs by the Secretariat to sensitize the AICUFer’s to become aware of the plight of the disadvantaged sections of the society. The AICUFer’s were encouraged to attend various talks and lectures on various social, ethical and human rights issues at different places in the State.
STATE COUNCIL: AICUF State Council was organized at St. Joseph’s College Bangalore on July 22 and 23, 2017. More than 100 AICUF leaders from several units of Karnataka took part in the council and elected the new office bearers. The following members were elected to the State Ex. Co, 2017-18.
In the year 2017-2018,
IGNITORS PROGRAMME - 2017: The AICUFer’s of Karnataka helped the IGNITORS team in organizing Integral Formation Program for nearly 8,000 college students in the month of June and July, 2017.
IGNATIAN WEEK CELEBRATION: Ignatian from July 24 to 31, 2017 was celebrated in different units on AICUF Karnataka. The celebrations were marked by various competitions such as singing, Poster making, quiz, collage, painting, poetry writing, debate etc. In order to promote a sense of social concern, a few competitions based on social themes were organized, where not only AICUFer’s other students also took part and performed in different programmes that was held.
AICUF STATE COUNCIL 2017: The AICUF State Council for the academic year 2017-18 was held on July 22 and 23, 2017 at St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru. More than 100 AICUFer’s from 16 different units attended the State Council, AICUF Objective, AICUF History was shared, sessions were given by resources persons like Pro. Kiran Jeevan, and different units presented their respective units reports, Elections were held for the Ex co Members 2017-18.
AICUF STATE ADVISOR AND AICUF TEAM VISITS TO AICUF UNITS: AICUF State Advisor and State Team members Visited different AICUF Units in the state, to encourage and mobilize AICUFer’s of local units., AICUF History, constitution etc. was presented to make AICUFer’s understand the objective of AICUF, and the AICUF State Advisor and State Team members also met the Principals/Staff Animators and gave idea about the programmes and activities that can be conducted, they also inaugurated the AICUF units for the academic year.
WORLD ORGAN DONATION DAY –AUGUST 14TH, 2017: About 100+Aicufers from different units gathered at St. Joseph’s College, Blore and created awareness programme on Organ Donation in Collaboration with Fortis Hospital within and outside campus. Many students and people who pledged to donate the organs was also given a certificate.
INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION-AUGUST 15TH, 2017: AICUFer’s of different colleges of Karnataka celebrated the Independence Day in villages, orphanages, Remand Homes and slums. They hoisted the national flag, sang patriotic songs and addressed people on various issues of national concern, conducted games, cultural programmes for the kids, and distributed gifts and chocolates.
DENGUE AWARENESS PROGRAMMES-18TH AUGUST 2017: A Dengue awareness programme was also conducted on Aug18,2017 in collaboration with the Bangalore Corporation to create awareness on cleanliness and Hygiene and how to protect from Dengue diseases in the public squares of Bangalore.
MARATHON IN SUPPORT OF DIFFERENTLY ABLE - 3RD SEPT 2017: AICUF Karnataka also organized a Marathon in support Differently able in collaboration with the Diya Foundation to raise funds for the wheel chairs and medical expenses for the Differently able people in different NGO’s.
PROTEST AGAINST THE MURDER OF GAURI LANKESH -12TH SEPT 2017: AICUFer’s from different units also took part in the protest against the killing of Guari Lankesh that was organised in Bangalore in a massive way to raise their voice against the injustice and killing of the social activist.
“KILL BILL CAMPAIGN-CLEANER BANGALORE”: Kill bill campaign with a theme Cleaner Bangalore in Bangalore zone in the month of Sept, 2017 was held where AICUFer’s from different units participated , AICUFer’s went around the public square to remove illegal flex boards, posters and banners that were creating visual pollution in the surroundings., and created awareness to the general public of the same., to have a positive impact in the society.
WORLD SIGHT DAY - BLIND WALK: AICUF Karnataka in Collaboration with Project Vision organized a major Blind Walk on October 12, 2017 from Vidhana Soudha to Freedom Park, Bangalore. More than 500 AICUFer’s joined in the Blind Walk in support of the people who are visually challenged, and created awareness among the people to donate their eyes after they die.
RURAL EXPOSURE CAMP-MANGALORE ZONE: AICUFer’s of Mangalore Zone organized Rural Exposure camp in November 2017, The primary objective of the camp was to understand the rural hardships and living of the villagers, they were also involved in cleanliness drive in villages , creating awareness programme via Street plays and campaigns, conducting Games for kids, distributing gifts and old clothes etc.
LAKE FESTIVAL - 19TH NOV 2017: AICUF Karnataka in collaboration, KR Puram Social Welfare Association and Bangalore Corporation –Lake Protection Dept also conducted a Lake Festival to create awareness about the importance of Lakes and to Save Lakes form illegal Encroachments, letting of untreated sewage waters. About 200+Aicufers took part in the Awareness Programme.
AIDS AWARENESS PROGRAMME: AICUFer’s organized AIDS awareness rally and signature campaign on December 1, 2016.Aicufers where able to spread awareness about HIV/ Aids. They were about 400+ people, (Auto/ Bus drivers, police, students, it professional, etc.), who pledged, signed took part in the SIGNATURE CAMPAIGN to create awareness about HIV.
BALAUTSAV 2017: Cultural Competition programme for Orphan Kids In collaboration with Janadhare and KSCCW, on December 8, 2017 AICUFer’s organized BALAUTSAV 2016 for the orphan kids in Cubbon Park, Bengaluru. More than 400 kids took part in this event. AICUFer’s participation made a huge difference and impact, they were able to create a great impact, had a great experience and fulfillment. Karnataka state council for child welfare where very Glad of the way they organised the whole programme and contributed in bringing positive impact in children’s life.
AICUF KARANATAKA RURAL EXPOSURE CAMP: From Dec 15 to 17, 2017 AICUF – Karnataka organized Annual State Level Rural Exposure camp in Neruda -Mangalore and spread awareness among the villagers about the importance of Education, Women Empowerment, Health and Hygiene and other issues through street plays and other programs. Rural Exposure Camp also provided opportunities for the AICUFer’s to understand the ground realities of the villages.
MAGIS SOUTH ASIA -2018: AICUFer’s actively took part and where instrumental in organizing MAGIS South Asia - 2018 that was held at Loyola College, Chennai from January 12 to 15 ,2018. More than 850 youths from 16 different of states of India took part in this mega event.
CLEANLINESS DRIVE “SWACHH BHARAT”: AICUFer’s from different units took part in a Cleanliness drive in Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Bangalore from January 16 – 26, 2018 in collaboration with “Beautiful Bengaluru”, with a aim to create awareness among the public who came to Lalbagh for Flower shows about a cleanliness and Hygiene which will keep our Bangalore City has a Garden City
RALLY AGAINST THE SEXUAL HARASSMENT OF WOMAN: AICUFer’s also organized a major rally in collaboration with SJC Social Works dept. Against the Sexual Harassment of woman and children and went on a rally from St Joseph’s College to Cubbon Park.
SAVE ANIMAL CAMPAIGN: A Save Animal campaign was organized by AICUF Karnataka where more than 200 AICUFer’s from different units took in support of protection of Animals from Hit and Run Cases/Cruelty against the animals.
SAPPLING PLANTATION PROGRAMME: Sapling plantation programme in Collaboration with Bembala-Outreach Programme was organized as part of Eco-drive, AICUFer’s planted several saplings in Government school campuses, they were able to plant 100+ saplings in 2 Govt aided schools, via planting saplings we were also able impart the value and importance of environment to school children who studies those schools, helped and took part in the programme.
MARATHON IN SUPPORT OF PATIENTS SUFFERING FROM RARE DISEASES: On Feb 25, 2017 AICUFer’s in collaboration with ORDI-Organization for Rare Disease Organized a Marathon “ Race for 7” for about 3500 participants in support of patients suffering from rare disease & in creating awareness about the rare diseases from St. Joseph’s Indian High School to Town Hall, Bangalore.
AICUF NATIONAL DALIT LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME: AICUFer’s also took part and represented AICUF Karnataka in AICUF National Dalit Leadership Development Programme that was conducted by AICUF National Team in Chennai. They Actively took part in all the activities that was conducted. Naresh from AICUF Karnataka was appointed has the National Co-convener of AICUF Dalit Commission.
HUNGER DRIVE IN MANGALORE: AICUFer’s of Mangalore Zone organized Hunger Drive on Sept 11 2016, where the AICUFer’s pooled in their money, cooked food, went to different slums and market places distributed free food to the poor and needy people.
ICYM REGIONAL MEET: AICUFer’s also took part and represented AICUF Karnataka, in the ICYM Regional Meets that was held in Bangalore and presented AIUF reports, discussed on the various activities that can be conducted in collaboration with ICYM.
FESTS AND EVENTS,
ORGANISING CULTURAL FEST: AICUFer’s of St Joseph’s Evening College, Bangalore organized “Ado Fiesta” – A State Level Inter-Collegiate Gospel Fest on Feb 24, 2018. AICUFer’s from several other units of Karnataka took part in this fest and showcased their talents in various events that was held and the AICUFer’s of St Joseph’s Commerce College, Bangalore organized “Revelation” – An Inter-religious and Inter college cultural fest to promote unity among people of different religions and cultures in month of Feb 2018, by inviting/encouraging students of different caste and religion to take part in different events such has Folk Dance/literary Events etc.
NATIONAL LEVEL SEMINAR: On Jan 28, 2017, AICUFer’s from different Units represented and took part in a National level Seminar in various National Level Seminars.
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY: International Women’s Day was celebrated in some units of our state on the 8th March, 2018 in recognition of social, economic, cultural and political achievement of women. They were painting competitions, rangoli competitions, quiz, panel discussions were held. These programs where conducted at empowering the rights of women and to promote gender equality.
CAMPAIGN TO SAVE WATER - NEERATHON: On Jan 21, 2018 AICUFer’s from different Units participated in a Marathon “CAMPAIGN to SAVE WATER” along with BBMP ,BWSSB Bangalore Water Warriors -NGO from St Joseph’s College to Cubbon Park, to create awareness among the people about growing water issue in Bangalore City and to Save Water which will in turn help many others who are suffering without, especially the farmers.
CAMPAIGN TO SUPPORT THE POWRAKHARMIKAS: On March 7, 2018 AICUFer’s participated /volunteered in Campaign to support the Powrakharmikas (Dalits -Manual Scavengers, Street garbage Cleaner) in town Hall, along with St. Joseph’s Institutions Outreach Programme Team. Our students proved yet again that we March with the Marginalized we support others and we are for others.
AICUF NATIONAL LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME: AICUFer’s also took part and represented AICUF Karnataka in AICUF National Woman’s Leadership Development Programme that was held in Bhopal. Actively took part in all the activities that was conducted.
VISIT TO THE HAKI-PIKI VILLAGE: AICUFer’s also visited the Haki Pike Village to understand the reality and hardships that the Haki-Piki tribes go through and also spread awareness among the villagers about the importance of Education, Women Empowerment, Health and Hygiene and other issues through street plays. They were also involved in the Survey census in collaboration with the Panchayat Office/Local Civic bodies. AICUFer’s attended several talks and lectures on various social. ethical and human rights issues
VISITING HOMES AND ORPHGANGES: Many Outreach Programs to Old Age Homes, Orphanages, Leprosy centers, Government Schools, Rehabilitation Centers, hospitals and Central Jail were organized to sensitize the AICUFers to become aware of the plight of the disadvantaged section of the human society.