Internal Complaints Committee

POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment)

Introduction

This Policy is framed in accordance with the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, and the rules made thereunder (hereinafter referred to as the “POSH Act, 2013”). St. Francis college for women is committed to providing a workplace that is safe, inclusive, respectful, and free from all forms of sexual harassment. Sexual harassment violates the fundamental rights of equality, dignity, and a safe working environment and will not be tolerated under any circumstances. This Policy lays down the framework for prevention, prohibition, and redressal of complaints of sexual harassment at the workplace and applies to all employees and stakeholders of the organization.

Objectives

Prevent the occurrence of sexual harassment at the workplace.
Prohibit sexual harassment through clear rules and consequences.
Provide a fair, confidential, and effective redressal mechanism.
Promote awareness and sensitivity among employees.
Ensure compliance with the POSH Act, 2013.

Composition of the Anti-sexual Harassment Committee (ASH)

The POSH committee has been constituted as per the provisions of the POSH Act and UGC Regulations and includes the following members:

S.No	Name	Designation
1	Prof. Uma Joseph, Principal	Principal & Presiding Officer
2	Dr. Sr. Sherly E. D	Vice Principal
3	Dr. Reena Dewan, Dean of Arts	Dean of Arts
4	Dr. Savitha Sukumar	Dean of Commerce & Management
5	Dr. Usha Praveena V.J.	Dean of Science
6	Dr. S. Parijatham Kanchana	ASH Committee Coordinator
7	Ms. Divyana	Student council President
8	Ms.Abhishikta	External Member & Legal Representative

Roles and Responsibilities of the Anti-sexual Harassment Committee

The ASH Committee will :

Receive and acknowledge complaints of sexual harassment.
Conduct inquiries in a fair, unbiased, and time-bound manner.
Ensure confidentiality of all proceedings.
Recommend appropriate action based on findings.
Protect complainants and witnesses from retaliation.
Conduct awareness and sensitization programs.
Submit annual reports to the employer and appropriate authority.

Complaint Redressal Mechanism

Submission of Complaint : Any aggrieved woman may submit a complaint of sexual harassment in writing to the Presiding Officer or to any member of the POSH Committee. Complaints may be submitted through physical applications, designated official email addresses provided by the institution.
Time Limit for Filing : The complaint should be filed within three (3) months from the date of occurrence of the alleged incident. In cases involving a series of incidents, the time limit shall be calculated from the date of the last incident. The POSH cell may grant an extension of time for filing the complaint if it is satisfied that sufficient cause prevented the complainant from filing within the prescribed period.
Inquiry Process : Upon receipt of the complaint, the POSH committee shall initiate a formal inquiry and complete the same within ninety (90) days. During the inquiry, both the complainant and the respondent shall be given a fair and reasonable opportunity to present their statements, submit supporting documents, and produce witnesses, in accordance with the principles of natural justice.
Findings and Recommendations : After completion of the inquiry, the POSH committee shall prepare a reasoned report detailing its findings and recommendations and submit the same to the Principal within ten (10) days. Based on the recommendations of the committee, appropriate disciplinary action shall be taken within thirty (30) days, in accordance with applicable service rules and institutional policies.
Right to Appeal : Any person aggrieved by the recommendations of the POSH committee may prefer an appeal to the Governing Body or such authority as prescribed under the rules of the institution, within the stipulated time frame. False or malicious complaints may invite action; however, inability to substantiate a complaint shall not be treated as false. All information related to the complaint, inquiry, parties, and witnesses shall be kept strictly confidential. Breach of confidentiality shall attract disciplinary action as per law. The organization affirms its commitment to maintaining a workplace free from sexual harassment and expects all employees to uphold the spirit and letter of this Policy.

HandBook on Sexual Harassment

Internal Complaints Committee (ICC)

Gazette Sexual Harassment of Women Act 2013

Value Education Cell

At St. Francis College for Women, we have a long-standing tradition of integrating value education into our academic programs, underscoring our unwavering commitment to nurturing compassionate, responsible, and principled individuals. The Value Education Cell at St. Francis College for Women is dedicated to fostering a culture of empathy, integrity, and social responsibility among our students. The institution believes that education should not only impart knowledge but also instill values that shape individuals into intellectually competent, compassionate, and socially responsible citizens.

Vision

To cultivate a community of thoughtful, ethical, and globally conscious individuals who make a positive impact in the world as a whole.

Mission

To integrate value-based education into our college ecosystem, promoting holistic development and character building through innovative programs and community engagement initiatives.

Objectives

To promote value-based education by designing and implementing curriculum-integrated value education modules that emphasize universal human values, ethical decision-making, and responsible citizenship.
To develop emotional intelligence and life skills that focus on emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and essential life skills.
To encourage critical thinking and moral reflection among the student community.
To build a supportive campus culture by fostering an inclusive and supportive environment that encourages students to uphold values of respect, empathy, and kindness.

Through the Value Education Cell, we aim to empower our students to become compassionate, responsible, and principled individuals who contribute positively to society. Classes on value education are held once a week. The courses have been well-received, with students reporting that these sessions have been of immense help in their personal and professional lives. 75% attendance in Value Education classes is compulsory, earning a student one Non-CGPA credit at the end of the undergraduate programme.

Syllabus / Reports

S.No	Course / Topic	Report / Details
1	Introduction to Value Education	Weekly report submitted by students
2	Ethical Decision-Making Module	Case study analysis
3	Emotional Intelligence and Life Skills	Assignments and feedback forms
4	Community Engagement Activities	Participation reports

Reports

Value Education committee report 2024-25

Value Education committee report 2023-24

Value Education committee report 2022-23

Human Values Syllabus

Women’s Cell

The Women’s Cell of St. Francis College for Women is committed to fostering empowerment, leadership, and holistic growth among students and faculty. It serves as a platform to enhance awareness on women-centric issues, promote gender equity, and encourage active participation in academic and social initiatives. Through workshops, seminars, and community engagement, the Cell strives to nurture confident, informed, and socially responsible women.

Vision

To inspire and empower women to excel in every sphere of life, fostering a culture of equality, confidence, and leadership.

Mission

To promote women’s empowerment through education, awareness, and opportunities that build competence, confidence, and character, enabling them to become change-makers in society.

Objectives

To create awareness on women’s rights, gender sensitivity, and social issues.
To encourage leadership qualities, self-reliance, and decision-making skills among students.
To organize seminars, workshops, and extension activities that promote women’s development.
To motivate students to engage in community service and outreach programs.
To nurture holistic growth by integrating academic excellence with social consciousness.

Coordinators / Faculty Members

S.No	Name	Position
1	Ms. Shouni Niveditha	Coordinator
2	Dr. B Lavanya	Member
3	Dr. G V Sharada	Member

Scholarship Cell

“Bridging aspirations and resources for holistic student development.”

The Scholarship Cell of St. Francis College for Women serves as a vital support system for students, ensuring that financial limitations never become an obstacle in the pursuit of higher learning. By extending access to diverse scholarship schemes, the Cell assists students in meeting tuition fees, accommodation needs, and other essential academic expenses.

The central objective of the Cell is to promote equity in education by extending opportunities to deserving and meritorious students from all backgrounds. Through its initiatives, the Cell strives to create a level playing field where students can channel their energy into learning, innovation, and personal growth rather than financial concerns.

At St. Francis College for Women, we recognize that true education is not only about academic performance but also about nurturing well-rounded individuals. The Scholarship Cell upholds values of merit, dedication, and integrity by acknowledging students’ achievements across academics, cultural activities, and social engagement.

In addition to financial aid, the Cell provides timely information, mentorship, and guidance, enabling students to make informed choices about their academic and professional journey. This holistic support empowers students to cultivate confidence, competence, and leadership skills essential for success in today’s world.

The Scholarship Cell stands as a commitment of the institution towards inclusivity and excellence—ensuring that every student, irrespective of economic background, has the resources and encouragement to transform potential into achievement.

Scholarship Schemes Offered

The National Scholarship Scheme provides financial assistance to students with disabilities, post-graduate students, and wards of Beedi, Cine, IOMC, and LSDM workers. Scholarships are also available for students belonging to OBC, EBC, and DNT categories.

Government / Non-Government Scholarships

S.No	Scholarship	Details / Link	Applicants
1	National Scholarship Portal (NSP2.0)	https://scholarships.gov.in/	Applicants AY 2024-25: 32, Renewal verified: 7
2	E-Pass Scholarship (Telangana)	https://telanganaepass.cgg.gov.in/	Fresh: SC-2, ST-8, BC-17, EBC-1, Minority-1; Renewal: SC-4, ST-2, BC-6, EBC-0, Minority-0

Private Organizations Offering Scholarships

R.S. Brothers Charitable Trust
R.G.A Swarna Jayanti Shiksha Nyas
Raisaheb Pannalal H Lahoti Trust
Vysya Hostel Trust Board
Guru Nanak Mission
Badrivishal Pannalal Pitli Trust
Srinivas Gowra Foundation
Abhayam Foundation
Azim Premji Scholarship
Sashakt Scholarship by Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories

Awards for Faculty and Students (College Day)

Department & Memorial Prizes
- Sr. Romana Fernandes & Late Mrs. A. Radha, Dept. of Chemistry Prize – Awarded to B.A. student for maximum participation
- Smt. & Shri H. V. V. Pathy Memorial Prize, Dept. of Chemistry – Awarded to B.Com student for maximum participation
- Mr. Pattabhi Ramaiah & V. Sree Devi Prize – Awarded to B.Sc. student for maximum participation
- Best All-Rounder Award – Instituted by Mrs. Jaya Laxmi, former Head, Dept. of Chemistry
Special Awards by the College
- Most Responsible Outgoing UG Class Representative (3 years)
- Most Responsible Outgoing PG Class Representative (2 years)
- Late D. B. D. Prasad Memorial Award – Best Sports Girl of the Year (International Level)
- Special Recognition Prize – Best Sports Girl of the Year (National Level)
- Best Outgoing Student Award (UG/PG) – Outstanding students in UG & PG streams
- Best Outgoing Student Award (NSS)
- Special Recognition Prizes – Excellence in Co-curricular, Cultural, NCC, NSS, Sports, Placements, Student Council, Student of the Year
Rolling Shields
- Best Outgoing Class Shield (UG)
- Best Outgoing Class Shield (PG)
- Maximum Research Award for Faculty
- Service Award – Senior Most Teacher

Reports

Founded Prizes

Gold Medals

SC/ST Cell

The SC/ST Cell is established in the college as per UGC guidelines to empower SC/ST students. The institution supports these students by providing guidance to obtain financial assistance from government agencies and other sources. Students are encouraged to participate in career orientation and skill enhancement programs. The Cell acts as a support and grievance redressal body.

Objectives

Assist students in availing scholarships, fellowships, and financial aid.
Create a supportive environment for academic and personal growth.

Functions of the SC/ST Cell

Collect data on SC/ST students and staff.
Organize orientation and mentorship programs.
Provide guidance and counseling services.
Maintain records of complaints and resolutions.
Facilitate the implementation of central/state government schemes for SC/ST students.

Activities

Orientation programs.
Sessions on government scholarships (like Post-Matric Scholarships).
Celebrations of Ambedkar Jayanti and Tribal Day.
Legal awareness workshops in collaboration with NGOs or legal experts.
Remedial coaching classes.

Activities & Reports

SC_ST cell report 2025