Technology Advancement and Social Responsibility Must Go Hand in Hand: Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan

Angamaly: Education becomes complete only when technological advancements benefit the grassroots level of society, Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan said while inaugurating the state-level launch of the year-long Silver Jubilee celebrations and the newly constructed Silver Jubilee Building of the Federal Institute of Science and Technology (FISAT) at Mookkannoor, Angamaly. The Chief Minister said FISAT had established a distinct benchmark in quality technical education over the past 25 years, going beyond producing engineers to nurture a generation of young people who use modern technology for social good. He also commended the institution for being the first in the state to be established and managed by a trade union as a model educational institution. Higher Education Minister Roji M. John, who attended as the chief guest, described FISAT as a successful model of trade union leadership in higher education. He praised the institution for achieving international standards through innovative courses, research excellence, and its efforts to foster entrepreneurial thinking and research interest among students. During the event, Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan released the book People Over Profit, authored by FISAT Vice Chairman Sachin Jacob Paul, by handing over a copy to Minister Roji M. John. The Minister also unveiled the master plan for the year-long Silver Jubilee celebrations, while Chalakudy MP Benny Behanan announced the institution’s long-term strategic plans for the next 25 years. Keynote addresses were delivered by Benny Behanan MP, APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Ciza Thomas, and Federal Bank Managing Director and CEO K. V. S. Manian. The newly constructed, state-of-the-art Silver Jubilee Building, spanning 75,000 sq. ft., houses advanced research centres and technology laboratories. As part of the jubilee initiatives, Dr. Ciza Thomas announced an annual scholarship scheme worth ₹1 crore for eligible students. K. V. S. Manian unveiled the design and official announcement of a futuristic 25,000 sq. ft. auditorium with a seating capacity of around 5,000. The ceremony was presided over by FISAT Chairman P. R. Shimith. Vice Chairman Sachin Jacob Paul, Principal Dr. Jacob Thomas V, Vice Principal Dr. Mini P. R., Mookkannoor Grama Panchayat President Jaya Radhakrishnan, Treasurer Jenib J. Kachappilly, Associate Secretary S. Satheyamurthy, PTA President Deepa N. Kartha, Alumni Association Vice President Jithu Ram, Student Union Chairman Ashwin Radhakrishnan, management committee members, FBOAES members, local body representatives, socio-cultural leaders, land donors, alumni, and parents also attended the function.