The Youth Parliament Programme of St. Joseph’s College of Arts and Science (Autonomous), Cuddalore, was inaugurated on 21 October 2026 at M.A. Ratchakar Hall. The programme commenced with a Prayer Song and Tamizh Thaai Vaazhthu, followed by the traditional lighting of the Kuthuvilakku.

Rev. Fr. Dr. M. Swaminathan, Secretary of the Institution felicitated the Chief Guest, Thiru P. Viswanathan, Hon’ble Minister for Higher Education, Technical Education, Electronics, Science and Technology, Government of Tamil Nadu, and the Guest of Honour, Thiru B. Rajkumar, Hon’ble Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Government of Tamil Nadu with a shawl and a memento. Dr. M. Arumai Selvam, Principal, felicitated Dr. M. K. Vishnu Prasad, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, Cuddalore Constituency,  with a shawl and a memento and delivered the welcome address. Rev. Fr. Dr. M. Swaminathan, Secretary of the Institution delivered the Presidential address. The Vice- Principals of Shift-I and Shift-II and faculty from other Departments graced the occasion by their valuable presence. 

Dr. M. K. Vishnu Prasad spoke about political awareness, youth voting perspectives, and informed democratic participation, emphasising the role of educational institutions in fostering civic engagement. Thiru B. Rajkumar, an alumnus of St. Joseph’s School, fondly recalled his school days, encouraged students to participate actively in politics, and assured his continued support for the institution’s initiatives. Thiru P. Viswanathan also shared his school memories, inspired students to uphold democratic values, and suggested conducting mock Parliament sessions to enhance their understanding of parliamentary procedures and governance.

The dignitaries emphasised the importance of youth participation in democracy and the need to nurture informed citizens and responsible leaders. A total of 150 student volunteers participated in the programme. The event was coordinated by Dr. A. Anthoniammal, Assistant Professor of Business Administration. Mr. P. Malaiarasan and Mr. A. Lenin, Assistant Professors, Department of English.  The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks by a student volunteer, followed by the National Anthem.