3.3.1 Photos Incubation Centre

Paper Pen

The green audit conducted by the college revealed that plastic pens and its parts formed a large part of the plastic waste produced within the college. The students and faculty brainstormed to figure out a solution for this and they came across the idea of paper pens. The students are producing in large scale, pens made out of recycled paper to reduce the plastic pollution caused by the multiple plastic parts of regular use and throw ball pens. Moreover, they are making this a commercially viable and available option for anyone who decides to do their bit towards reducing plastic pollution.

Bio-Bouquet

Every formal function follows a procedure of welcoming the dignitaries with a flower arrangement, most often wrapped in a plastic cover. But here at Sacred Heart we do it with a little difference. Instead of a flower arrangement that loses its charm after those few moments, we offer a bio bouquet to our guests and dignitaries. A bio bouquet consists of an earthen ware pot, with a sapling, the pot is painted and the saplings are carefully planted by our own
students. These bio bouquets are not thrown away after a few moments but remain with them as the reminders of their visit to this temple of knowledge. This has gained popularity and we have received orders from corporate houses, who are interested to follow this meaningful act of welcoming guests. This will help students feel more worthy as well as help generate income.

Apiculture

This is an initiative of the Department of Zoology to make students aware of the importance of bee keeping and honey processing. Students get exposure regarding the various techniques of bee keeping, honey processing and its marketing. The different methods of constructing bee hives are also taught. A comprehensive training is given to identify the different stages in the life cycle of honey bees. Students gain expertise in identifying queen cells, drone cells and brood. They also sugar feed the bees in times of
scarcity. Different methods of multiplication of bee colonies are also explained.

Cage Fish Farming

This initiative gives students knowledge about fish culture and the different types of cultivable fish. They learn different healthy management practices of a fish farm. Various techniques of fish farming and marketing are also introduced to the students. Training is given on selling of fish, maintenance of fish pond, collection and rearing of different fish seeds, preparation of fish feed, propagation of aquatic plants, pond biomass estimation etc.

Cloth Bag

An effective and lasting alternative to plastic bags and carry bags, the students of the college under the direction of the department of Zoology makes and sells machine made cloth bags. These are reusable and biodegradable making it a very viable replacement for plastic bags. Select students are trained and they not only bring paper bags to the local community, they also spread ecological awareness. They also help the local residents master this skill of paper bag making, there by adding a skill, and a chance at livelihood, thereby self-sufficiency and self-worth.

Aquaculture – Fish Breeding

This is the pioneer of all start-ups in the college, where the department of Aquaculture, train their students to breed ornamental fish and sell them to pet houses or individuals in need of them. The students are divided into groups and directed to find a fish breed of their choice and will then be given directions to develop their breeds into healthy schools. Once they achieve maturity, they will be divided into pairs and be provided to customers according to their need. Students are trained in aquarium setting, aquarium making and cultivating aquatic ornamental plants. They also receive an insight into the possibility of entrepreneurial endeavours based on aquarium and related businesses.

Food Processing

This initiative was started by the Department of Chemistry to provide hands-on training in canning and food preservation. The programme is coordinated by Dr. Jinu George and Dr. V S Sebastian the head of the Department of Chemistry extends his wholehearted support to this venture. Students are trained in various activities like preparation of wine, pickle, carrot halwa, crush and so on. Students arranged a sale of their products as
well.

Purgo

Purgo is the brand name of a line of cleaning products made by the students of the department of Chemistry which includes detergent, vegetable cleanser, hand wash, floor
cleaner, toilet cleaner, and lotions. The raw materials are chosen carefully, keeping in mind their cleansing properties as well as environmental impact. Along with sales of
these products outside, the college uses these products on a daily basis, thereby making a move towards self-sufficiency and actively encouraging the initiative of the students.