The SC/ST Committee is established to support and empower students from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), ensuring they receive the necessary guidance, resources, and opportunities to succeed academically and personally.
Objective of the SC/ST Committee
The primary objective of the SC/ST Committee is to provide a supportive environment for students from SC/ST backgrounds, ensuring they have equal access to educational opportunities, financial assistance, and facilities in accordance with government policies and university regulations. The committee aims to promote inclusivity, diversity, and social justice within the academic community.
Who Should Apply?
The SC/ST Committee invites students belonging to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (as per the Government of India’s classification) to apply for the following services and benefits:
- Admissions Support: Assistance in understanding and applying for reservation benefits during admission to various undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
- Scholarships & Financial Assistance: Support for availing scholarships and financial aid schemes provided by the government, AICTE, and the institution.
- Academic Support: Facilitation of special academic provisions, mentoring, and guidance to ensure success in the rigorous academic environment.
- Hostel Facilities: Assistance in availing hostel facilities, if available, with special consideration for SC/ST students.
- Other Welfare Schemes: Guidance on various welfare programs and schemes for social and economic upliftment, as per the guidelines of AICTE and other statutory bodies.
Eligibility Criteria for SC/ST Students
To apply for the services and benefits provided by the SC/ST Committee, students must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Indian Nationality: The applicant must be an Indian citizen.
- Caste Certificate: Students must provide a valid caste certificate issued by a competent authority in the Government of India or the respective state government. This certificate should indicate the student’s caste classification as SC or ST.
- Income Certificate (if applicable): Students who wish to avail scholarships or financial aid may need to submit an income certificate proving eligibility as per government guidelines.
- Academic Enrollment: Students must be enrolled in any undergraduate or postgraduate course at St. Thomas College of Engineering and Technology.
AICTE Guidelines
The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) plays a key role in ensuring that the benefits and services for SC/ST students comply with national educational standards. According to AICTE’s guidelines:
- Reservation in Admission: As per the AICTE guidelines, 15% of the total seats in all technical courses (Engineering, Management, and other programs) are reserved for SC candidates, and 7.5% for ST candidates.
- Financial Assistance: AICTE provides various scholarship schemes for SC/ST students, including the Post-Matric Scholarship, Tuition Fee Waiver Scheme, and other national-level scholarship programs.
- Equal Opportunity: The AICTE mandates that SC/ST students should have access to equal opportunities in terms of academic support, counseling, and career development, ensuring no student is left behind due to socio-economic barriers.
KTU Rules & Regulations
Kerala Technological University (KTU), the affiliating university for St. Thomas College of Engineering and Technology, follows the following key rules for SC/ST students:
- Reservation in Admission: KTU adheres to the reservation policy as outlined by the Government of Kerala, which includes reservations for SC and ST students in both undergraduate and postgraduate admissions.
- Scholarship Eligibility: Students are eligible to apply for scholarships such as the KTU SC/ST Scholarship, which provides financial assistance based on merit and need.
- Special Mentoring and Counseling: KTU ensures that SC/ST students have access to mentoring, academic support, and counseling services to help them succeed in their academic journey.
- Hostel Accommodation: Special consideration for hostel admission is given to SC/ST students as part of the university’s policy to ensure their comfort and well-being.
Supportive Services Offered by the Committee
- Counseling Services: The SC/ST Committee offers regular counseling sessions to address any academic or personal issues faced by SC/ST students.
- Mentoring: Senior students and faculty act as mentors to guide SC/ST students throughout their academic journey.
We are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed, irrespective of their caste, creed, or background.
St. Thomas College of Engineering and Technology believes in the empowerment of all students, and the SC/ST Committee stands as a beacon of support for those who need it most.