The PG Department of English, Chevalier T. Thomas Elizabeth College for Women, organised a Madras Day Group Discussion Competition for II UG General English students on 13 August 2026. The event aimed to enhance students’ communication skills, confidence, active listening, critical thinking, and placement-oriented competencies.
The students were guided throughout the preliminary stages, and the best-performing speakers were shortlisted for the final round on the topic “Chennai Through the Gen Z Lens.”
The final round provided participants with an opportunity to present diverse perspectives on Chennai’s evolving identity, with discussions focusing on its traditions, urban development, career opportunities, connectivity, and social responsibility.
Ms Safa Hameedha Ahamed Basheer of II B.Com. Corporate Secretaryship, who secured First Place, discussed the anti-NEET protests in Chennai in 2017, changing career preferences among Gen Z, and the need for improved public services alongside urban development. Her presentation highlighted the importance of balancing economic and infrastructural growth with the needs and aspirations of young people.
Ms K. Dharanya of II B.Sc. Chemistry, who secured Second Place, highlighted the continuing relevance of traditional values and cultural practices among Chennai’s Gen Z population. She reflected on the differences between her childhood experiences and present-day Chennai and discussed the city’s continuing development as a metropolitan centre.
Ms Razya Sukthana S of II B.Sc. Psychology, who also secured Second Place, examined the difference between the lived reality of Chennai and the idealised image of the city often presented through social media. She emphasised the importance of protecting natural resources and advocated the adoption of sustainable approaches to urban development rather than compromising the environment for the sake of expansion.
Ms Divya Barathy S of II B.Com. Corporate Secretaryship, who secured Third Place, described Gen Z as a generation capable of contributing to social change and highlighted its adaptability to changing circumstances. She also addressed contemporary social concerns, including youth-led protests and the growing concern surrounding substance abuse among young people.
The discussion encouraged students to exchange ideas, engage with diverse perspectives, listen actively, and articulate their views with clarity and confidence. The participants demonstrated their ability to connect contemporary social issues with the changing identity and aspirations of Chennai’s younger generation.
The Department of Accounting & Finance, in collaboration with ExNoRa International Foundation, organised a Tree Sapling Plantation Programme and “Thumbs for Trees” Green Pledge Campaign on 11 June 2026. The programme aimed to promote environmental awareness, encourage sustainable practices, and strengthen students’ sense of responsibility towards environmental conservation.
The programme commenced with a prayer song, followed by a welcome address. Mr T. A. Munawardeen, M.A., M.B.A., M.Phil., Environmental Volunteer and Social Worker, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour. In his address, he highlighted the importance of environmental conservation and emphasised the collective responsibility of individuals and communities in protecting natural resources for future generations.
As part of the programme, the Guest of Honour inaugurated the “Thumbs for Trees” Green Pledge Campaign, through which participants pledged their commitment to environmental sustainability and the protection of nature. He also planted a sapling, formally marking the commencement of the plantation drive and encouraging students to contribute actively towards creating a greener and healthier environment.
The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from faculty members and students. The plantation activity and green pledge provided a practical platform for participants to reflect on the importance of trees, biodiversity, environmental protection, and sustainable living. The initiative also reinforced the significance of individual and collective action in addressing environmental concerns.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks expressing appreciation to the Guest of Honour, collaborating organisation, faculty members, and students for their participation and support. The event successfully contributed to strengthening environmental consciousness and encouraging community-oriented sustainability practices among the members of the institution.
The programme conveyed a meaningful message to the participants: “Plant a Tree Today, Secure a Greener Tomorrow.”
