The orientation programme for first year English Major students of St Agnes College was held by the Department of English on 8 July 2025, at the PG Auditorium. Dr Bharathi Shevgoor, Editor, Tarjaani Communications Pvt Ltd, was the resource person. The event began with a warm welcome speech by Erum Khatri, Cabinet Secretary for LitWit and Western Dramatics Association. Dr. Zubaida H, the Head of the Department of English, introduced Dr Bharati Shevgoor as a Trainer and Master Facilitator in Leadership and Human Resource Development, Copy Writer, Text Editor, and Distinguished Toastmaster. Dr Shevgoor delivered an inspiring speech on “Engaging with Literature: Unlocking Words Within and Without”. She highlighted the importance of studying literature for understanding human experiences and historical contexts, for training of the mind and appreciation of art, language and culture. She made the presentation riveting using examples from popular films as well as from literary works such as “Franz Kafka and the Doll.” She also touched upon the career opportunities for students of English Literature.
The programme also included the felicitation of English Major toppers from the first and second year of 2024-2025, thus appreciating their academic achievements. Ms Lina George, Lecturer, proposed the vote of thanks. Following the Guest Lecture, Mrs Geethanjali Prabhu, Assistant Professor, gave an orientation to the departmental activities, introduced the department’s faculty members and discussed available scholarships.
The interactive sessions featured a playful action song and games organized by the third-year students, encouraging active participation. A play on women’s empowerment: “Unheard Voices from Literature” was presented by the third years, incorporating imagined classic monologues by famous female characters from literature. Overall, the orientation programme was educative, interesting and entertaining, providing a comprehensive introduction to the English department and English Major as a discipline.
