Pala: Pala St. Thomas College, one of Kerala’s premier educational institutions, is set to culminate its grand Platinum Jubilee celebrations with a closing ceremony to be inaugurated by Hon. President of India, Draupadi Murmu, at the Bishop Vayalil Hall today at 4:00 pm. The event will also witness the presence of Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Pala Diocese President and College Patron Mar Joseph Kallarangat, Union Minister George Kurien, Cooperation Minister V.N. Vasavan, MPs Jose K. Mani and Francis George, MLA Mani C. Kappan, College Chief Vicar General and Manager Mon. Rev. Dr. Joseph Thadathil, Principal Dr. Sibi James, Vice Principal Rev. Dr. Salvin Thomas Kappiliparambil, and Bursar Rev. Fr. Mathew Alappattumedayil, along with distinguished personalities from social and cultural spheres.

A Legacy Rooted in Community Effort

Founded on August 7, 1950, under the visionary guidance of Abhiwandya Mar Sebastian Vayal, Pala St. Thomas College began its journey with the support of the Meenachil community. The college was inaugurated by Abhiwandya Thomas Tharayil, with Dr. P.J. Thomas then Economic Advisor to Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru appointed as the first principal. Prof. V.J. Joseph served as vice principal, while the inaugural batch comprised over 300 students, 14 teaching staff, and a handful of non-teaching personnel. The autobiography of Abhiwandya Vayal, Ninte Rahaala Etra Sundaram, chronicles the tireless efforts and dedication of all those involved in the establishment of the institution.

The college began offering first-year degree courses in Economics and Mathematics in 1952-53 with 60 students, alongside an intermediate program enrolling 612 students. Under the stewardship of Principal Mon Kureethadam from 1952 to 1968, the college witnessed significant expansion in both academic and infrastructural dimensions. Notable developments included the construction of Blocks A, B, C, the college auditorium, C.R. Hostel, Fatima Hostel, staff quarters, canteen, and the first swimming pool. During this period, 10 degree programs and nine postgraduate courses were introduced.

Excellence in Academics and Sports

By 1971-72, the student population had surged to 2,502, supported by 139 faculty members. This era also marked the rise of St. Thomas College in the sports arena, particularly in volleyball under the legendary Jimmy George and his brother Jose George. The college’s Silver Jubilee in 1976 was inaugurated by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, while the Golden Jubilee in 1999-2000 was celebrated under the auspices of Meghalaya Governor M.M. Jacob. Union Minister O. Rajagopal and Vice Chancellor Dr. V.N. Rajasekharan Pillai were among the distinguished guests.

The college has consistently prioritized holistic development. It currently boasts an Olympic-standard swimming pool, multiple sports fields including football and cricket stadiums, indoor stadiums with modern facilities, basketball and volleyball courts, and specialized academies for volleyball, swimming, athletics, badminton, and indoor cricket. Over the years, St. Thomas has produced 45 international athletes, including Arjuna Award winners Jimmy George and Wilson Cherian, Dronacharya Awardee N.S. Pradeep, and G.V. Raja Award recipient Manoj Lal.

Cultural, Academic, and Social Milestones

St. Thomas College has long been a crucible for intellectual and cultural advancement. It currently offers 15 undergraduate programs, 16 postgraduate programs, and 11 research departments. Its academic achievements have been recognized with an A++ rating by NAAC and autonomous status. Recent initiatives, such as Luminaria a cultural fest featuring Padma Shri awardees, Guinness World Record holders, book fairs, medical exhibitions, and departmental showcases highlight the college’s commitment to providing a multifaceted learning experience.

In a remarkable display of community engagement, the All Kerala Cycle Journey, led by students and faculty, traversed all districts of Kerala, promoting environmental awareness and healthcare. Emotional tributes were paid in the hometown of volleyball legend Jimmy George, underscoring the college’s deep-rooted connection to sports and society.

Leadership and Legacy

Over the decades, the college has been shaped by visionary leaders, including Dr. P.J. Thomas, Rev. Joseph Kurithadam, Dr. N.M. Thomas, and several others. Current leadership comprises Principal Dr. Sibi James, Vice Principal Rev. Dr. Salvin K. Thomas, and Bursar Rev. Fr. Mathew Alappattumedayil. The college patron, Rev. Mar Joseph Kallarangat, continues the lineage of dedicated guidance that began with Rev. Mar Sebastian Vayalil and Rev. Mar Joseph Pallikaparampil.

St. Thomas College has nurtured countless leaders, administrators, scientists, vice-chancellors, and ministers. Notable alumni include Union Minister George Kurien, Kerala Water Resources Minister Roshi Augustine, and several eminent academicians such as Dr. A.T. Devasya, Dr. Cyriac Thomas, and Dr. N. Unnikrishnan Nair.

A Beacon of Progress

As the college steps into its Platinum Jubilee year, it stands as a beacon of educational excellence and cultural enrichment. With state-of-the-art facilities, comprehensive academic programs, thriving sports academies, and robust community engagement, Pala St. Thomas College continues to empower generations and shape futures. The closing ceremony today, graced by President Draupadi Murmu, marks not only the celebration of 75 years of achievement but also the beginning of a new chapter in the institution’s illustrious journey.