The parents of the students who came for the IIT-JEE entrance examination at Bhavan’s Varuna Vidyalaya at NPOL complex, Thrikkakkara, on Sunday, had a surprise in store. In a noble gesture, the NPOL (Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory) officials arranged food and other facilities for them to take rest for the day.
The facilities were arranged at the community hall near Bhavan’s Varuna Vidyalaya. They were given newspapers and magazines too. Screening of DRDO activities was also organised.
“It’s an appreciable initiative from the part of NPOL. Otherwise we would to spend time idling outside the school building,” said Gilbert of Kumbalangi, who brought his son for the IIT entrance exam.
“We didn’t expect such facilities. Hence, it was a relief when we came to know of it,” said Yohanan of Thrissur. Some parents said coun wselling sessions can also be organised along with the facilities.
“The parents who accompany the students for entrance tests usually forced to spend their entire day outside the school building. Hence we thought of providing them a place to take rest, breakfast, lunch and snacks. On Saturday, about 400-450 parents came with the students who attended the medical entrance exam. On Sunday, close to 200 parents made use of the facility,” said S Ananthanarayanan, director, NPOL.
The arrangements were done by a team led by Dr T Mukundan, scientist and chairman, School Committee, and S Daman, secretary welfare committee of NPOL, said the officials.