Mahatma College of Education, Nileswaram, in collaboration with the NGO Betterlife functioning at Ambalavayal, Wayanad, organized a three-day residential camp titled “Roots and Routes ’25”from 19th to 21st September 2025. The camp was designed to offer students experiential learning, community exposure, and opportunities for reflection on contemporary educational and social issues. A total of 97 students and 10 teachers actively participated in the programme.
The group commenced their journey from the college premises at 7:30 a.m. on 19th September in two buses. The first bus carried students from the English and Social Science departments, while the second was allotted to students from Physical Science, Natural Science, and Mathematics.Along the way, the buses made several stops at different points to pick up students. At around 10:00 a.m., the buses halted at a petrol pump at Adoor Palam, where students and teachers took a short break to refresh themselves and use the washroom facilities.
By 1:30 p.m., after a long but cheerful journey filled with anticipation, the team reached Ambalavayal. The participants were welcomed with a simple but delicious lunch at a hotel known for its homely meals.Following the meal, the group proceeded to the camp venue, where accommodation had been arranged. Students were allotted two dormitories for girls and one for boys, while teachers were provided with separate rooms.After settling in, everyone took time to freshen up before reassembling for the afternoon programme.
At 4:45 p.m., the inaugural session of Roots and Routes ’25 began. The session was anchored by Mr. Mohandas, Founder of Betterlife Foundation.The formal inauguration was carried out by Mr. Gifton Prince George, Founder of the NGO Action.The programme was moderated by Mr. Shihab Klayikod, Principal of Hillsinai Finishing School, Markuz Knowledge City, Kozhikode. His moderation and thoughtful reflections set the tone for the camp. This was followed by an address by our college Principal,Dr. Ramya V Rwho highlighted the relevance of such collaborative camps in nurturing the social consciousness and professional commitment of teacher trainees.
A significant moment of the session was the exchange of signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs)between the Principal of Mahatma College of Educationand the Founder of Betterlife Foundation, symbolizing the formal beginning of a constructive partnership.
After the inaugural proceedings, the first academic-cum-interactive session of the camp was held. Mr. Shihab Klayikod conducted a debate session on the provocative and timely topic “Technology Replaces Teachers.” The session saw enthusiastic participation from the students, who voiced diverse perspectives on the evolving role of teachers in an age dominated by digital technology. The lively exchange of arguments made the session engaging, thought-provoking, and memorable, leaving participants with fresh insights into the challenges and opportunities of modern education.
After the intellectually stimulating session, participants proceeded for dinner, where ghee rice and chicken currywere served. The meal provided a sense of warmth and fellowship after a busy day. Following dinner, students retired to their respective dormitories, while teachers withdrew to their rooms. The first day of the camp thus concluded with a sense of fulfillment and excitement for the activities awaiting in the following days.
Programme Brochure
Hillsinai Finishing School Kozhikode principal Mr. Shihab Klayikod moderating the session.
Mahatma College of Education, Nileswar principal Dr. Ramya V R addressing the gathering.
Exchange of the signed MoUs by college principal and founder of the NGO Betterlife Mr. Mohandas.
First day session
Day 2
Date: 20th September 2025 (Saturday)
The second day of the program began early with participants waking up at 4.30 am to prepare for the day ‘s activities.
5:15 am – 7.30 am : Sunrise Experience
The second day began with an early morning outing arranged for participants to witness the sunrise at the hill top of near Vaduvanchal Kolagappara road. Although the sky was covered with clouds and the sun did not appear, the experience remained meaningful. Participants enjoyed the freshness of dawn, the cool breeze, and the collective silence. The cloudy
morning became a reminder of acceptance and resilience—finding beauty even in unmet expectations. This reflective experience set a calm and thoughtful tone for the day.
7.30-8.30
Refresh
8.30 am– 9.30 am Breakfast
10.15am – 12.45 pm
Session 2: Inclusion Leads to Holistic Development
Speaker: Mr. Muhammed Yasir (CEO, Akkara Foundation; MSW – MG University; Post Graduate Diploma in Special Education – Kannur University)
The session ‘s welcome speech was done by Mohandas Sir.
Mr. Yasir’s session shed light on the transformative power of inclusivity. He emphasized that holistic development can only be achieved when marginalized groups and individuals with disabilities are integrated into mainstream education, workplaces, and communities. Drawing examples from the work of Akkara Foundation, he illustrated how inclusive practices can empower individuals while strengthening society as a whole.
At the end of the session, a special relaxation activity was conducted. Participants were gently guided to recollect memories of their childhood, parents, and teachers, gradually imagining themselves stepping into the role of a teacher. This reflective exercise created a deep emotional experience—many participants were moved to tears as forgotten
memories resurfaced. The activity brought about both release and healing, allowing participants to feel lighter, more connected, and more empathetic. It became one of the most memorable and transformative moments of the day.At last the students and our
teachers Sreena mam, Remya mam and Krishnan Sir share their experiences and conclude that session.
12.45 pm – 1.00 pm
Tea break
1.00 pm- 1.30 pm
Activity Session- Letting Go of Negative Memories
Speaker: Dr. Thulasi Balasubramanian (Certified Life Coach; Pharm.D – JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research; Certified Professional Life Coach – Transformation Academy; 200 Hours of Yoga and Meditation Teacher Training – Bodhi School of Yoga)
Before lunch, Dr. Thulasi facilitated a special activity session focused on emotional relaxation and healing. Participants were encouraged to recall and share unpleasant or
difficult memories related to their study experiences. By openly expressing these memories in a safe and supportive environment, the activity helped participants release emotional
burdens that often remain unspoken.
This session fostered empathy, mutual understanding, and emotional relief among the group. Many participants expressed that the act of sharing allowed them to feel lighter, more connected, and better prepared to move forward with a positive outlook.
1.30
Lunch
Day 2
Date: 20th September 2025 (Saturday)
The second day of the program began early with participants waking up at 4.30 am to prepare for the day ‘s activities.
5:15 am – 7.30 am : Sunrise Experience
The second day began with an early morning outing arranged for participants to witness the sunrise at the hill top of near Vaduvanchal Kolagappara road. Although the sky was covered with clouds and the sun did not appear, the experience remained meaningful. Participants enjoyed the freshness of dawn, the cool breeze, and the collective silence. The cloudy
morning became a reminder of acceptance and resilience—finding beauty even in unmet expectations. This reflective experience set a calm and thoughtful tone for the day.
7.30-8.30
Refresh
8.30 am– 9.30 am Breakfast
10.15am – 12.45 pm
Session 2: Inclusion Leads to Holistic Development
Speaker: Mr. Muhammed Yasir (CEO, Akkara Foundation; MSW – MG University; Post Graduate Diploma in Special Education – Kannur University)
The session ‘s welcome speech was done by Mohandas Sir.
Mr. Yasir’s session shed light on the transformative power of inclusivity. He emphasized that holistic development can only be achieved when marginalized groups and individuals with disabilities are integrated into mainstream education, workplaces, and communities. Drawing examples from the work of Akkara Foundation, he illustrated how inclusive practices can empower individuals while strengthening society as a whole.
At the end of the session, a special relaxation activity was conducted. Participants were gently guided to recollect memories of their childhood, parents, and teachers, gradually imagining themselves stepping into the role of a teacher. This reflective exercise created a deep emotional experience—many participants were moved to tears as forgotten
memories resurfaced. The activity brought about both release and healing, allowing participants to feel lighter, more connected, and more empathetic. It became one of the most memorable and transformative moments of the day.At last the students and our
teachers Sreena mam, Remya mam and Krishnan Sir share their experiences and conclude that session.
12.45 pm – 1.00 pm
Tea break
1.00 pm- 1.30 pm
Activity Session- Letting Go of Negative Memories
Speaker: Dr. Thulasi Balasubramanian (Certified Life Coach; Pharm.D – JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research; Certified Professional Life Coach – Transformation Academy; 200 Hours of Yoga and Meditation Teacher Training – Bodhi School of Yoga)
Before lunch, Dr. Thulasi facilitated a special activity session focused on emotional relaxation and healing. Participants were encouraged to recall and share unpleasant or
difficult memories related to their study experiences. By openly expressing these memories in a safe and supportive environment, the activity helped participants release emotional
burdens that often remain unspoken.
This session fostered empathy, mutual understanding, and emotional relief among the group. Many participants expressed that the act of sharing allowed them to feel lighter, more connected, and better prepared to move forward with a positive outlook.
1.30
Lunch
Day 2
Date: 20th September 2025 (Saturday)
The second day of the program began early with participants waking up at 4.30 am to prepare for the day ‘s activities.
5:15 am – 7.30 am : Sunrise Experience
The second day began with an early morning outing arranged for participants to witness the sunrise at the hill top of near Vaduvanchal Kolagappara road. Although the sky was covered with clouds and the sun did not appear, the experience remained meaningful. Participants enjoyed the freshness of dawn, the cool breeze, and the collective silence. The cloudy
morning became a reminder of acceptance and resilience—finding beauty even in unmet expectations. This reflective experience set a calm and thoughtful tone for the day.
Tour report – Day 3
21 September 2025
Edakkal Caves, located in wayanad Kerala.
We reached the destination by 9am in the morning. There were 96 students accompanied by teachers.
The visit began with a short trek up the Ambukuthi Hills. The trail was surrounded by greenery, fresh air, and scenic views, which made the climb both challenging and exciting.
The edakkal cave are known for their ancient rock engravings which are proof of earliest human settlements. The guide helped us to understand about the prehistoric human life, including their artistic expression, social practices, and possible connections to the Indus Valley Civilization.
The carvings on the walls of the Edakkal Caves depict humans, animals, wheeled carts, weapons, and geometric symbols, each narrating silent stories of an ancient civilization. These intricate engravings provide invaluable insights into the daily lives, social practices, and belief systems of the early inhabitants of the region. Visiting the Edakkal Caves was far more than just a routine field trip; it was an immersive journey into history. Standing amidst these age-old inscriptions, one could almost feel a connection with the people who lived thousands of years ago, experiencing firsthand the depth of their creativity, culture, and worldview. We returned to Glory’s residence after the visit and had lunch. After packing our bags, we headed back to college, reaching there around 8 p.m.
This image from the Edakkal Caves represents the early life, beliefs, and artistic expressions of ancient humans. The petroglyphs (rock engravings) are believed to be thousands of years old and provide a glimpse into the prehistoric period.
These carvings include human figures, animals, symbols, and tools, representing aspects of daily life, rituals, and possibly communication methods. Estimated to be over 6,000 to 8,000 years old, they are valuable records of prehistoric civilization in South India.
This site is unique because it’s the only place in South India with such Stone Age carvings still visible.
This image shows ancient rock engravings (petroglyphs) found in the Edakkal Caves, located in Nenmeni, Wayanad district, Kerala, India. These carvings are believed to date back to the Neolithic and Megalithic periods—roughly between 6000 BCE to 10