By Alvin Lansana Kargbo
The College of Digital Excellence (CODE) on Saturday 18 April 2026 hosted its annual student outing at Number 2 River, bringing together students and staff in a relaxed setting aimed at strengthening social interaction, promoting networking and enhancing mental wellness. The event, now a regular feature of the institution’s academic calendar, provided an opportunity for students to step away from the demands of classroom learning while engaging meaningfully with peers and lecturers in an informal environment.
Speaking at the outing, Technical Head of CODE, Rajesh Kumar, said the initiative was deliberately organized to break the routine of academic work and create space for relaxation and interaction outside the classroom. He explained that the outing forms part of the college’s broader approach to delivering holistic or “360-degree” grooming, ensuring that students develop not only academically but also socially and professionally.
Rajesh Kumar noted that such gatherings offer a valuable platform for students to build networks, strengthen relationships and improve social confidence, all of which are essential for personal growth and future career success. He emphasized that mental relaxation is closely linked to academic performance, adding that students often return to their studies more focused and energized after participating in activities that allow them to unwind.
He further disclosed that the institution plans to sustain the tradition by organizing at least one major outing each year, alongside other extracurricular activities such as football matches and structured student engagement programmes. According to Rajesh Kumar, those initiatives are designed to maintain student motivation while fostering a balanced and inclusive learning environment.
Students who attended the outing described the experience as both refreshing and beneficial. Alimamy Fofanah said the event created an opportunity for students to interact freely with lecturers and colleagues outside the formal academic setting, noting that the relaxed atmosphere helped to strengthen relationships and will improve collaboration during academic work. Aminata Koroma also highlighted the importance of taking breaks from academic pressure, stating that the outing will contribute to students returning to their studies with renewed energy and improved concentration. She added that the initiative reflects the institution’s commitment to student wellbeing beyond academic achievement.
Providing further insight into the institution’s development, Bhabani Prasad Rath said the expansion of the college, including the establishment of its Eastern Campus in September 2024, was driven by growing demand for technical education and the need to ease transportation challenges faced by students. He explained that since its establishment in 2021, the college has continued to expand its programmes in line with evolving market demands, particularly within the information technology sector, while consistently updating its curriculum to reflect emerging global trends such as artificial intelligence and advanced digital skills.
Bhabani Prasad Rath emphasized that maintaining industry relevance remains a key priority, noting that the institution is committed to equipping students with practical competencies required in today’s job market. He added that the college aims to produce graduates who are not only employable but also capable of contributing to national development through innovation and digital transformation.
He further explained that the institution operates flexible staffing arrangements that allow for the sharing of resources across campuses while maintaining an inclusive teaching approach. He added that some former students have been integrated into the college’s training workforce, reinforcing its commitment to capacity building and continuity. According to Bhabani Prasad Rath, the college offers a wide range of programmes, including diploma courses lasting one to three years, three-year degree programmes and short certificate courses tailored to individuals seeking specialized skills.
Bhabani Prasad Rath also highlighted the institution’s international collaborations with National Institute of Information Technology and Manipal University, noting that thse partnerships provide students with access to globally recognized training and certification opportunities.
He concluded that the annual outing reflects the institution’s commitment to combining academic excellence with student wellbeing and practical exposure, ensuring that graduates are both technically competent and socially adaptable in an increasingly competitive world.
