NSS Orientation Programme 2026 for newly enrolled students – An introduction to NSS activities, values and opportunities for voluntary services

In its continued commitment to nurturing socially responsible citizens, the National Service Scheme (NSS) organized an Orientation Programme for newly enrolled students on 15 August 2026, familiarizing them with the mission, core values, and diverse initiatives of NSS while inspiring a spirit of teamwork, volunteerism and community service.

 The programme also aimed to motivate students towards community service, teamwork, leadership and social responsibility. A total of 90 newly enrolled NSS volunteers participated in the orientation programme.

The programme commenced with ‘Maanavageetham’, creating a calm and focused atmosphere. Prakeerthana K Baiju (Volunteer Secretary, (S5, AIML Dept) delivered the welcome address and warmly welcomed the newly enrolled volunteers and other participants.

Mr. Rajesh S K (NSS Programme Officer and Asso Prof, EEE Dept) addressed the students and highlighted the importance of NSS in developing socially responsible citizens. He encouraged the volunteers to actively participate in NSS activities and contribute to community development.

Following this, Mr. Ranjith E R (NSS Programme Officer and Asst Prof, ME Dept) gave a comprehensive introduction to NSS, explaining its objectives, activities, volunteer responsibilities and the major programmes conducted by the NSS units at VAST. He also shared examples of NSS activities and achievements to motivate the new volunteers. The newly appointed Volunteer Secretaries were introduced to the students, helping them become familiar with the student leadership of the units.

Ice-Breaking and Interactive Session

The second session was conducted by Mr. Sujay K (NSS District Coordinator, Ernakulam and Asst Prof,SSET, Ernakulam). He conducted a series of engaging ice-breaking and interactive activities that encouraged the students to communicate, interact and work together as a team.

The session helped the volunteers overcome initial hesitation and develop a sense of unity and camaraderie. This was followed by an insightful talk on NSS, community service and the role of youth in nation-building. He encouraged the students to actively engage in social activities and understand their responsibility towards the community.

Introduction to Flagship Programmes

The afternoon session focused on introducing the students to the various NSS flagship programmes and initiatives. The Volunteer Secretaries and coordinators of different programmes explained their objectives, activities and opportunities for volunteer participation.

The students were introduced to different areas of NSS engagement, including blood donation and health activities, energy conservation, road safety, environmental activities, anti-drug awareness, community outreach and other social welfare initiatives. The session helped the newly enrolled volunteers understand the diverse opportunities available through NSS.

The programme concluded  with a brief wrap-up session. The orientation provided the newly enrolled volunteers with a clear understanding of the objectives, values, activities and functioning of NSS.

The combination of informative sessions, interactive activities and motivational talks made the programme engaging and meaningful. It helped the volunteers develop a sense of teamwork and social responsibility while motivating them to actively participate in NSS activities and contribute to the community in the spirit of “Not Me But You.”