Two volunteers of the National Service Scheme (NSS) of SOA Deemed to be University and its Program Officer Dr. Mou Roy took part in a 10-day long training program at the Atal Behari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports at Manali and Skiing Centre, Solang Valley, Himachal Pradesh, which was held from November 15 to 24.

The volunteers were Ms. Abhipsa Mohapatra and Mr. Sanchit Pradhan, students of 3rd Year B.Tech at the Institute of Technical Education and Research (ITER), SOA’s faculty of Engineering and Technology.

They were part of a group of 20 enthusiastic NSS volunteers who took part in the training program. The trip was organised to promote leadership and resilience and inculcate the spirit of adventure in the students with two Program Officers in charge.

During the program, the trainees participated in activities such as trekking through rugged mountainous terrain, rock climbing techniques, river crossing and learning survival skills in challenging situations. Guided by trained instructors, they trekked 80 km and climbed 10,000 feet during the training.

“This trip was not just about adventure, it was about self-discovery and team spirit. The skills we learned here will stay with us for a life time,” said Ms. Abhipsa Mohapatra.