Department of Economics

About Us

Established in 1964 as a Junior College and upgraded in 1967 with the introduction of the B.A. Economics programme, the Department of Economics at Alphonsa College, Pala, has a long-standing legacy of academic excellence and holistic education. Over the decades, it has grown into a dynamic centre of learning that fosters intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and social responsibility.

The department expanded its academic profile with the introduction of the interdisciplinary M.A. Econometrics programme in 2020. With the implementation of the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme in 2024, it now offers B.A. Economics (Honours) with specialisation in Econometrics and Data Analysis, equipping students with strong theoretical foundations and advanced analytical skills aligned with contemporary industry and research demands.

Known for its student-centric approach, the department provides a vibrant learning environment through seminars, workshops, field visits, nature camps, research projects, and internships. It consistently maintains a strong academic record with over 92% pass rate, university rank holders, and a high number of S and A+ achievers.

Guided by a committed faculty team, the department continues to nurture competent, socially responsible graduates prepared to excel in academia, policy, research, and industry.

Vision

To be a centre of excellence in Economics and Econometrics that empowers women through academic excellence, research, innovation, and value-based education, enabling them to become ethical leaders and catalysts for sustainable and inclusive socio-economic development.

Mission
  • To provide quality, student-centred education in Economics and Econometrics by fostering academic excellence, critical thinking, research aptitude, and analytical competence through innovative, experiential, and outcome-based learning. 
  • To empower women with leadership, professional skills, and career readiness for higher education, entrepreneurship, public service, and lifelong learning.
  • To cultivate socially responsible citizens committed to sustainable development, community engagement, and inclusive socio-economic progress.
Highlights
  • Add-on Certificate Courses – ASPIRE: Foundation Course for Competitive Examinations, and Certificate Course in Advanced Excel and Power BI.
  • ECOTHON – The department’s flagship annual intercollegiate economics fest. 
  • Young Economist Quiz Series to enhance analytical thinking and economic awareness among students
  • Alumni Lecture Series featuring accomplished alumni from diverse professional fields.  
  • Annual E-book Publication showcasing students’ research, creativity, and academic contributions. 
  • Industrial Visits and Nature Camp promoting experiential learning and industry exposure.
Signature Events
  • ECOTHON – Annual Intercollegiate Economics Fest

    ECOTHON is the flagship annual intercollegiate fest of the Department of Economics, Alphonsa College, Pala. The event brings together students from colleges across Kerala to participate in intellectually stimulating competitions, academic interactions, and creative events that celebrate the relevance of economics in understanding contemporary society.

    ECOTHON provides a platform for young economists to demonstrate their analytical abilities, creativity, leadership, teamwork, and communication skills through a variety of academic and cultural competitions. The fest promotes knowledge sharing, healthy competition, networking, and collaborative learning while inspiring students to explore emerging economic issues and innovative ideas.

    With enthusiastic participation from institutions across the state, ECOTHON has become one of the department’s signature initiatives, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence, student engagement, and holistic development.

  • Young Economist Series

    The Young Economist Series is the Department of Economics’ annual flagship academic programme designed to nurture economic awareness, analytical thinking, and competitive spirit among students. Conducted in multiple stages throughout the academic year, the series features quizzes and other academic competitions based on contemporary economic issues, public policy, finance, business, and current affairs.

    The programme encourages students to stay informed about national and global economic developments while strengthening their conceptual understanding and critical thinking. The winners of the final round are recognized and honoured with prizes for their outstanding performance.