Fatima Mata National College (Autonomous)

As early as in the beginning of the 20th century, the Diocese of Quilon established religious and educational institutions not only for Catholics, but all sections of society. But when the new dioceses of Kottar, Trivandrum and Punalur were carved ou s of Kottar, Trivandrum and Punalur were carved out of the territory of the Diocese of Quilon, many institutions under its jurisdiction were handed over to the newly constituted Dioceses. There were 132 vernacular primary schools under the Quilon Diocese. Most of these were later ceded to the dioceses of Kottar and Trivandrum. Later, High Schools and Primary Schools, in the English and Malayalam media, Higher Secondary Schools in the aided and unaided sectors, Fatima Mata National College, and Karmela Rani Training College were established with the ultimate aim of prioritizing the spread of education as the first step to the social uplift of the backward communities. Fatima Mata National College honours the name of Blessed Virgin Mary seen in apparition at Fatima, Portugal in 1917. The founder, Bishop Jerome Maria Fernandez, an ardent devotee of Our Lady of Fatima, wished and prayed for her maternal protection and care on every member of the college community. His patriotic spirit also envisioned every Fatimite imbued with a pan-Indian spirit and a genuine sense of dedication and service to the motherland. Bishop Jerome M. Fernandez, the first native prelate of the Diocese of Quilon, was a great visionary who established Fatima College for the enlightenment and social uplift of the backward classes, including Roman Catholics of the Latin Rite. His Lordship believed in education as a means to empowerment, progress and social change. The College strives to achieve Excellence in Higher Education, and foster Love of Motherland in all its students, helping them develop Integrity of Character and promote in all its members a belief in the Dignity of Labour. The institutional endeavour is to encourage a Spirit of Selfless Service in all its members and cultivate Respect for all Fellow creatures.