Activities

The PG & Research Department of English of KAHM Unity Women’s College, Manjeri, successfully organized Book Buddy 2025, an innovative and immersive book review competition held at 10:00 AM in Aryabhatta Hall. The programme was smoothly anchored by Nidha Nesrin, while Finsha P served as the Student Coordinator, ensuring efficient arrangements and coordination throughout the event.

The proceedings began with the Welcome Address by Ms. Ayisha Zidha, Assistant Professor, who introduced the concept, vision, and structure of Book Buddy. She explained that the primary aim of this initiative is to cultivate essential graduate attributes such as critical thinking, analytical skills, reading and comprehension abilities, confidence, and leadership qualities. She also highlighted the distinct “Book Review through Interview” format, where participants presented books through interactive host–character dialogues.

This was followed by the Presidential Address delivered by Dr. Shahina Mol A. K, Head and Associate Professor, Department of English. She emphasized the importance of socially responsive reading habits and encouraged students to engage with literature as a medium to understand lived realities, complexities, and human experiences.

The programme was formally inaugurated by Dr. Prof. Muhammed Basheer Ummathur, Principal of the college. In his Inaugural Address, he appreciated the department for fostering creative and analytical engagement among students and highlighted the importance of literary platforms in shaping academic excellence and personal growth.

The event then moved to the Keynote Address, delivered by Sharfudheen A. K, Assistant Professor, Department of Malayalam, Noble Women’s College. His session titled “‘ഇ’ കാലത്തെ ന്യൂജൻ വായനകൾ: യുവതലമുറയുടെ വായനശീലം—മാറുന്ന പ്രവണതകൾ” offered an eye-opening perspective on the evolving reading practices of the new generation. His talk was highly insightful and well received by the audience.

After the Vote of Thanks by Finsha P, the chief guest distributed welcome kits to all the participants. Following the distribution of welcome kits, the competition officially began. Students participated with remarkable dedication, having thoroughly researched and prepared for their presentations.

They showcased strong interpretative skills and profound awareness, speaking with clarity, confidence, and sensitivity about the central theme of this year’s event—War, Trauma, Women, and the Palestine Crisis. Their interview-style book reviews reflected both academic depth and emotional maturity, especially in addressing the contemporary relevance of the Palestine crisis and the devastating impacts of war.

The competition was judged by Dr. Shahina Mol A. K and Ms. Sangeetha, who evaluated the performances and offered valuable feedback. Prizes for the winners were distributed by the Principal.

The entire programme was coordinated by Ms. Ayisha Zidha, Assistant Professor, Department of English, whose efforts ensured the event’s smooth execution and active student participation.

Book Buddy 2025 concluded as a highly successful and impactful event, fostering a vibrant reading culture and inspiring students to think critically, read deeply, and engage meaningfully with global issues through literature.