St Philomena College Launches Union Bank-Sponsored ‘Tech Hub’ to Boost Digital Empowerment
Puttur, June 4: In a strategic move to digitally empower rural students, St Philomena College (Autonomous), Puttur, in collaboration with Union Bank of India, inaugurated a state-of-the-art ‘Tech Hub’ on Monday. Sponsored under the Union Bank Social Foundation initiative, the lab features ten high-quality computers valued at ₹5.85 lakhs and is designed to facilitate cutting-edge digital learning for students across disciplines.
The Tech Hub was formally inaugurated by Mr. Sunil V. Patil, Deputy General Manager, Union Bank of India, Mangaluru Zone. In a symbolic ceremony, he cut the ribbon and lit the lamp to mark the official opening. Addressing the gathering, Mr. Patil stated, “This investment in technology is timely and meaningful. Through this initiative, we have laid the foundation for the digital empowerment of rural youth. This is just the beginning; we look forward to partnering with St Philomena College on more such impactful ventures in the future.”
Presiding over the programme, Rev. Dr. Antony Prakash Monteiro, Principal of the College, emphasized the importance of digital literacy in the contemporary world. “The Tech Hub was conceived as a response to the digital skill gap faced by rural students, which often limits their employment opportunities. The partnership with Union Bank in realizing this vision is truly commendable. What matters most is not the number of computers installed, but the number of futures we can transform through this initiative,” he remarked. He also congratulated all those involved in the successful implementation of the project.
Mr. Ravish Nayak, a distinguished alumnus of the college and retired Deputy General Manager of Union Bank of India, graced the occasion as the chief guest. He reflected on the five-decade-long association between the college and the former Corporation Bank, now merged with Union Bank. “This collaboration to establish the Tech Hub is a testament to our shared commitment to quality education. I hope the students leverage this opportunity to develop advanced IT skills and shine in the global arena,” he noted, extending his best wishes to the Hub’s future endeavours.
Also present on the dais was Ms. Anuradha H. R., Branch Manager of Union Bank of India at St Philomena College, who expressed her support for the project.
The event began with a prayer by Tanvi Rai and team. Dr. Vinayachandra, Controller of Examinations and Head of the Computer Applications Department, welcomed the gathering and elaborated on the vision, objectives, and future plans of the Tech Hub. Ms. Akshatha B., Assistant Professor in the Department, proposed the vote of thanks, and Dr. Geetha Poornima K. compered the event.
The programme witnessed the enthusiastic participation of senior managers from Union Bank, including Mr. Chetan Arora, Ms. Gracy Lobo, Mr. K. T. Vair Kumar (Branch Manager, Boluvaru), and Ms. Umadevi M. (Officer, St Philomena College Branch). Faculty members and postgraduate students from various departments were also in attendance.
Expressing his delight at the successful establishment of the Tech Hub, Very Rev. Laurence Mascarenhas, Correspondent of the College, conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to Union Bank of India for their support and vision.
