Dr. Arvind Chavaria, Addl. Commissioner of Police (Admin) inaugurated Anti-Ragging Week at Poona College

To prevent ragging and create awareness among the student, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has directed the colleges and universities across the country to launch an ‘’Anti-ragging Campaign’’ between August 12 and 18.

At Poona College, on August 12, 2023, Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) in association with the Anti-Ragging Committee demonstrated a strong commitment to the well-being and safety of the student community. The timing of the event was significant, coinciding with the commemoration of International Youth Day.

Chief Guest, Additional Commissioner of Police (Admin), Mr. Arvind Chawariya inaugurated Anti-Ragging Week, a crucial initiative for creating awareness about the negative impact of ragging.  He delivered an informative speech emphasizing the importance of anti-ragging measures, the legal aspects surrounding such actions, and the significance of The Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses (POCSO) Act and the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act.

The Anti Ragging Week inaugural week commenced with a warm welcome from the esteemed Principal, Prof. (Dr.) Aftab Anwar Shaikh. Prof. Shaikh also provided insights into the theme of International Youth Day: “Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World.” Prof. Shaikh outlined a series of exciting competitions and activities planned for the upcoming week, urging students to actively participate and showcase their skills.

Notable figures, Mr. Anand Salunke and Mrs. Bhagyashree Salunke, President and Secretary of the R K Bahudesshiya  Foundation, Pune, graced the event as Guests of Honour. Their presence added valuable motivation, as they encouraged students to focus on serving the underprivileged and making meaningful contributions to society.

Additionally, Mr. Bharat Bhima Yede, Assistant Room Officer, Examination – Confidential Room, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, shared valuable guidance with the students.

Many students directly benefited from this enlightening program, reaffirming the significance of such initiatives in creating a safe and conducive environment for the youth.

The program concluded with a patriotic note as the National Anthem was sung. The success of this event was the result of the dedicated efforts of the Anti-Ragging Committee, which worked tirelessly under the guidance of Principal Prof. (Dr.) Aftab Anwar Shaikh, Vice Principal (Arts) Prof. Moinuddin Khan, and Vice Principal (Science) & IQAC Coordinator Dr. Iqbal Shaikh. The committee, led by Dr. Shirin Shaikh (Chairperson) and including members Dr. Shakir Shaikh, Dr. Shamshad Ahmed, Dr. Shabana Shaikh, Dr. Aafreen A. Ahmed, Dr. Baba Shaikh, and Dr. Riyasat Peerzade, played a crucial role in organizing the event.

Poona College Naval Unit NCC cadets, who not only welcomed the guests with the Sword of Honour but also actively assisted in the event’s arrangements.