Verghese V Joseph –
Bengaluru: Tarbes Community College (TCC), founded in March 2003 by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Tarbes, is a pioneering institution dedicated to providing an alternative system of education aimed at empowering the disadvantaged and underprivileged through skills development, leading to gainful employment. This innovative educational approach is rooted in the community and has been instrumental in changing the lives of numerous students since its inception.
The Sisters of St. Joseph of Tarbes have a rich history of service, dating back to 1843 when six young nuns from France had a profound experience of God, urging them to live together and dedicate their lives to serving others. Over the years, they persevered in their mission, providing education, healthcare, and social services to those in need. In 1882, they arrived in India and were actively involved in various developmental works, including education, health, and social welfare initiatives.
Tarbes Community College in Bengaluru is a testament to the sisters’ commitment to empowering the marginalized. Since its inception, the college has remained steadfast in its mission to provide an innovative, holistic, inclusive educational alternative. The college’s philosophy is centered around the idea of “including the excluded and giving the best to the least,” ensuring that every student receives the best possible education and support.
The college’s curriculum is designed to equip students (10th and 12th successful or unsuccessful) with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to succeed in life and in their chosen careers. The courses offered include accounting, office management, interpersonal relationships, life coping skills, computer skills, and pre-school nursery training.
These courses are designed to be practical and relevant, ensuring that students are job-ready and equipped to face the challenges of the modern workplace.
According to Directress TCC – Sr Susai Rani Nicholas SJT, “One of the key achievements of Tarbes Community College is its ability to empower its students, many of whom come from disadvantaged backgrounds. The college has helped fourteen batches of young women so far, with almost ninety percent of them securing jobs after graduation. The college’s training program, supported by professional consultant services, has been instrumental in helping students achieve their personal, educational, and professional goals.”
The college’s success stories are numerous and inspiring. For instance, Poojashree M. A., who joined the college in 2009, took up pre-school nursery training and is now working in a reputable institution. Manjula, who completed her PUC, is working in HR with a multinational company. Sangeetha .N, an intelligent and hardworking PUC student, has secured a job in a multinational company.
Tarbes Community College has also been recognized for its innovative approach to education. In 2006, one of its students, Sharwin Glory, was selected as the “Best Worker” at a function held in Kerala and awarded a cash prize. The college’s students have also been able to move out of slums and own their own accommodation, while others have been able to renovate their homes and live in reasonable comfort.
The college’s achievements are a testament to its commitment to empowering the disadvantaged and underprivileged. As the National Skill Development Corporation of India notes, “The unique achievement of Community College Movement is the empowerment of the socially, economically, and educationally disadvantaged groups, leading to employment and resulting in the alleviation of poverty.” Tarbes Community College has been instrumental in bridging the gap between the rich and the poor in India, providing a beacon of hope for those seeking a better life.
Adhering to the TCC curriculum, students were taken for office visits. Their first visit was to K2K, a sister concern of Prestige projects, and were taken around their facility which helped them to understand how departmentalisation is done.
Next was a visit to Bene, an Austrian-based multinational company, that caters to office furniture and interiors. Mr Edward, the director of the company and his staff showed motivational videos to encourage the children to work hard for a successful future.
Tarbes Community College is a shining example of innovative education in action. Its commitment to empowering the disadvantaged and underprivileged has led to numerous success stories and has made a significant impact on the lives of its students. As the college continues to grow and evolve, it remains steadfast in its mission to provide an inclusive and holistic education that changes lives and inspires hope.
For those who wish to know more details, please visit: https://www.tccindia.net/ or contact: [email protected]