The 50th annual book bank function of Rajasthan Youth Association (RYA) was organised in Chennai on Sunday.
Addressing the gathering on the occasion, Naresh Khivsara, chairman, Book-Bank Project 2013-14 said that the beginning was initiated by giving a set of books to about 25 students of two colleges in the city of Madras, way back in 1964. Till last academic year, more than 85,000 students had benefited from RYA Book Bank and at any given point of time more than 7500 students are studying due to the services extended by RYA Book Bank, he added.
Stating that the books lent by RYA Book Bank were available for use by the students throughout the academic year, he said, it provided a sense of security for the needy students, who did not have to rely on other temporary means of study. “Our wings are spread across more than 150 colleges in Chennai and Kancheepuram districts,” he said.
Khivsara added, “In a bid to support the beneficiaries after their graduation, we are planning to organise job fair. Our goal will be fulfilled, if every RYA beneficiary gets placements and settle in their life.” Speaking on the occasion, R Thandavan, Vice-Chancellor, University of Madras, called on the students community to have self-belief in order to achieve their goals. He also assured that the University of Madras would extend its support for the endeavours of RYA.
Earlier, actor Suriya stressed that the students should develop specialised skills to come out in flying colours. The special postal cover to commemorate the golden jubilee year of RYA Book Bank was released by Mervin Alexander, Post Master General, Tamil Nadu Circle.