SBS College Mehal Kalan Joyously Marks World Book & Copyright Day
Barnala \ Mehal Kalan, (Amandeep Singh Bhotna) On April 23, 2025, the SBS Group of Colleges in Mehal Kalan, Punjab, joyfully commemorated World Book and Copyright Day, an international event dedicated to promoting reading, publishing, and the protection of intellectual property. Organized annually by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), this global celebration underscores the importance of books as tools for education, cultural exchange, and personal growth. The event at SBS College brought together students, faculty, and community members to honor the transformative power of literature and the significance of copyright in fostering creativity.
The celebration at SBS Group of Colleges featured a series of engaging activities designed to inspire a love for reading and raise awareness about intellectual property rights. Shri Lajpat Rai Ji, the institution’s president, addressed the gathering, emphasizing UNESCO’s tradition of selecting a World Book Capital each year to promote literacy and cultural activities. He highlighted how these initiatives encourage people worldwide to engage with books and appreciate the value of creative works. The event included interactive sessions, book exhibitions, and discussions on the role of copyright in protecting authors’ rights, making it a meaningful experience for all attendees.
A Rich History of World Book and Copyright Day
World Book and Copyright Day was first celebrated in 1995, when UNESCO designated April 23 as a day to honor books and reading globally. The date holds special significance, coinciding with the birth or death anniversaries of literary giants like William Shakespeare, Miguel de Cervantes, and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega. The primary goal of this day is to encourage people, especially young individuals, to discover the joy of reading while promoting access to books and safeguarding intellectual property. Today, over 100 countries, including India, mark this occasion with events at schools, libraries, and cultural institutions.
At SBS College, the event reflected this global spirit, with faculty and students actively participating in activities that celebrated both literature and the legal frameworks that protect it. The college’s commitment to fostering a reading culture was evident in its well-organized program, which also showcased its modern library facilities. By hosting such events, SBS Group of Colleges aligns itself with UNESCO’s mission to promote education and cultural understanding through the power of books.
SBS College: A Hub of Academic Excellence
Located in Mehal Kalan, Punjab, the SBS Group of Colleges is renowned for its diverse academic offerings and state-of-the-art facilities. The institution provides a range of professional courses, including B-Pharmacy, D-Pharmacy, ANM, GNM, B.Sc. Operation Theatre, B.Sc. Anesthesia, B.Sc. Radio Technology, B.Sc. Medical Lab Sciences, and Bachelor of Physiotherapy. These programs are supported by modern laboratories and excellent hostel accommodations, ensuring students receive a holistic educational experience.
During the World Book and Copyright Day event, the college’s library played a central role, with librarians like Mandeep Singh and Sandeep Kaur organizing displays of books across various genres. Faculty members, including Shri Anil Jindal, Shri Gurjant Singh, and Dr. Khushmita, encouraged students to explore the library’s resources and engage in lifelong learning. The event also highlighted the college’s commitment to fostering an environment where intellectual growth and creativity are nurtured.
Promoting Reading and Copyright Awareness
The activities at SBS College went beyond celebrating books; they also emphasized the importance of copyright in protecting authors and publishers. Students participated in discussions about how copyright laws ensure that creators are fairly compensated for their work, fostering an environment where innovation can thrive. These conversations were particularly relevant for students pursuing courses like physiotherapy and medical lab sciences, where research and documentation play a critical role.
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Moreover, the event featured workshops that encouraged students to develop their reading habits and explore diverse literary genres. By engaging in these activities, students gained a deeper appreciation for the role of books in personal and professional development. The college’s efforts to promote literacy align with UNESCO’s broader goals of reducing illiteracy and expanding access to education worldwide.
Community Engagement and Future Aspirations
The World Book and Copyright Day celebration at SBS Group of Colleges was a community-driven event, with active participation from students, faculty, and local residents. Attendees like Navdeep Kaur, Ashu Gupta, and Jaspreet Kaur expressed their enthusiasm for the initiative, noting how it inspired them to read more and respect intellectual property. The presence of students from various programs, including physiotherapy and pharmacy, underscored the universal appeal of the event.
Looking ahead, SBS College aims to make such events a regular part of its academic calendar, fostering a culture of reading and learning among its students. By hosting initiatives like World Book and Copyright Day, the institution is not only enriching its campus community but also contributing to global efforts to promote literacy and cultural exchange.
In Conclusion, The successful celebration of World Book and Copyright Day at SBS Group of Colleges, Mehal Kalan, reflects the institution’s dedication to education, creativity, and cultural awareness. Through thoughtfully planned activities and enthusiastic participation, the event highlighted the enduring value of books and the importance of protecting intellectual property. As SBS College continues to champion such initiatives, it sets a positive example for other educational institutions in Punjab and beyond, inspiring a new generation of readers and creators.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is World Book and Copyright Day?
World Book and Copyright Day, celebrated annually on April 23, is a UNESCO initiative to promote reading, publishing, and the protection of intellectual property through copyright laws. It aims to encourage people worldwide to engage with books and appreciate the value of creative works.
Why is April 23 significant for this event?
April 23 was chosen by UNESCO because it marks the birth or death anniversaries of renowned authors like William Shakespeare, Miguel de Cervantes, and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega. This date symbolizes the universal impact of literature.
What activities were organized at SBS College for World Book and Copyright Day?
SBS Group of Colleges in Mehal Kalan organized book exhibitions, interactive discussions on copyright, and workshops to promote reading. The event also featured speeches by faculty and displays of the college’s library resources.
How does SBS College support its students academically?
SBS Group of Colleges offers a variety of professional courses, including B-Pharmacy, D-Pharmacy, ANM, GNM, and Bachelor of Physiotherapy, supported by modern laboratories and excellent hostel facilities. The college also promotes extracurricular activities to foster holistic development.
Why is copyright awareness important for students?
Copyright awareness helps students understand the importance of protecting intellectual property, ensuring creators are fairly compensated. This knowledge is especially relevant for students in fields like physiotherapy and medical sciences, where research and innovation are key.
