Pachaiyappa’s College Introduces Co-Education for Undergraduate Courses
On Wednesday, Minister for Higher Education P. Viswanathan formally inaugurated the co-educational system at the undergraduate level at the historic Pachaiyappa’s College in Madras. The transition marks a significant milestone for the 184-year-old institution, which is opening its undergraduate classrooms to women for the first time in its history.
Approximately 50 women students have already enrolled in various undergraduate courses at the college. To facilitate further enrollment, the institution has extended its undergraduate admission deadline until August 15.
Speaking at the inaugural event, Minister Viswanathan highlighted the critical role of women's education in societal progress. He stated that co-education is highly important, noting that a country's development is measured by the percentage of its women receiving education. He emphasized that women’s education is of utmost importance among all developmental measures.
The Minister also reflected on the rich legacy of Pachaiyappa's College, noting that the institution has a long history of producing distinguished personalities, including former Chief Ministers, IAS and IPS officers, judges, and writers.
Pachaiyappa’s College Principal Baby Gulnaz spoke on the academic and social benefits of the new system. She explained that the institution introduced co-education to inculcate equality and foster a healthy competitive spirit within classrooms. She described the system as a step toward empowerment, adding that a more inclusive learning environment is necessary for the students.
Among the newly enrolled students is Thanuja. M., a first-year B.Sc. Chemistry student who made history as the very first female applicant to secure admission to the college's B.Sc. Chemistry programme. She shared her personal journey, noting that she viewed the admission as a major opportunity after facing numerous hardships while growing up. She expressed that while she felt nervous about the transition, she was determined to make the best use of the opportunity.
The event was also attended by key administrators of the institution. V. Parthiban, a former judge of the Madras High Court and the current administrator of the Pachaiyappa’s Trust, addressed the gathering to speak about the core values that students need to uphold within a co-educational system. C. Duraikannu, the secretary of the Pachaiyappa’s Trust, was also present at the ceremony.
