The Department of English, Al- Ameen College organized a one-day National Webinar titled “ Authority, Agency and the Pandemic” on 25th July 2020. During these times when adaptability and resilience have become the buzzwords, the topic is truly relevant and influential.

Dr. Saji Mathew, Assistant Professor from the School of Letters, MGU was the resource person of the program. Having presented more than 20 papers in a multitude of conferences, the subject matter was well safe and organized with our speaker. The webinar hosted on ‘Google Meet’ started at 10:40 am with the welcome address by Mr. Viju P.V, faculty, Department of English. His words of warm welcome was indeed a hearty we salutation to all the participants.

Dr. Cini Kurien, Principal, Al-Ameen College, delivered the presidential address, conveying her heartfelt regards and prayers to the program’s success. Mrs. Aishwarya Pushkaran, faculty of the department was more than happy to introduce the speaker with zealous heart and words. She gave a quick flash into the career and achievements of Dr. Saji Mathew, which undoubtedly arouse a keen interest in the lecture that followed.

The remarkable lecture which flagged off at 11:00 am addressed the different nuances of agency and the plethora of interpretations in relation to different levels of authority amidst the pandemic. His talk was truly enlightening and brainstorming. He had a lot to share, which he delivered in the span of an hour, with systematic planning and excellent execution. The question-answer session that followed was moderated by Mrs. Varsha Bint Saif, faculty of the Department of English. She was efficient in bridging the gap between the speaker and the audience. The session effectively supplemented the program, making it more rewarding and treasurable.

The program came to a wrap, with the Vote of Thanks proposed by Dr. P.J Sajin, HOD, Department of English. Being the foundation stone of the event, little did he forget to extend his gratitude to each and every member involved on and off screen, in carrying up and placing the program on an entirely new level.