January 29, 2024

A day of reckoning and a moment to rejoice for the Mangalore Jesuit Educational Society, when the pioneers of education in this land, St Aloysius Autonomous College was bestowed the status of Deemed to be University on January 19, 2024. Its not just the Education, it’s the Institution, which has been offering quality education par excellence for the past 144 years with unmatched fervour and dedication, has undoubtedly experienced a historic moment. Over the years we have seen it transcending all boundaries, steadily growing to ensure that students who walk through the corridors of this institute carve a niche for themselves as they cross its portals and step into the competitive world to establish themselves in various fields. I bear witness to the famous alumni; St Aloysius College Alumni Association (SACAA) bears witness to its repute with its Ex-students who have forged ahead in their respective fields with illustrious careers and created a brand name for their Alma Mater not to forget their constant support to the Institute in many ways.

Perched on the idyllic and scenic Idgah hill, overseeing the Arabian Sea, this institute has served as a picturesque view for this city of Mangalore for years. The jewel in its crown being its Chapel with its world-famous Frescoes adorning its walls and ceiling, makes it. Although the tall high-rises and modern infrastructure occlude its grandeur, its magnanimous presence still awes the sight of many. As an Alumnus of this institute, my heart swells with gratitude for the myriad opportunities that shaped my personality in unimaginable ways. The emphasis, was not only on academics but extracurricular activities and sports, which is a rightful blend that builds the foundation for a holistic growth for any student. I remember and recognize the love and support this institution has given me which, has not only helped me grow but also made me who I am today. The platform that this college provided was far-reaching and, in a way, made me aware of my innate qualities that were honed through the years. I was fortunate enough to experience the National Accreditation and Assessment Council (NAAC) committee audit and the process it entailed in my capacity as the Students' Council President (2022-23). I experienced firsthand, the tireless efforts, sleepless nights, the constant upgrading to ensure the standards were at par with the designated requirements, loads of paperwork, and time and again reviewing its infrastructure. I was honoured to be a part of this team that toiled day and night and oversaw every detail to ensure that the college would be bestowed with re-accreditation that paved the way to obtain the Deemed to be Status as a University. It was a dream, that was nurtured through the years with this goal in mind that finally saw its fruition. I can imagine the joy and ecstasy that all Aloysians, past and present feel today. Words fall short, to express this feeling as the institute soaks in this information with renewed zeal and vigour to ensure that at the end of it all, it will be an independent University someday. Every tier of management and the student community was actively involved and contributed in their little way to support this objective. It can be rightly said that all their efforts saw the light of the day. Moving forward, am sure as a united front they will leave no stone unturned to reach the pinnacles of success, one day as an university. Lucet et Ardet, Shine to Enkindle, the motto of this college is deeply rooted in my heart. I have expanded my horizon in the true Aloysian spirit, which is working for and with the people for the betterment of society at large. This was ingrained deeply in me right through the years that I spent in this college which made me grow as a person. As I take a walk down memory lane, I feel nostalgic with vivid memories of life as a student at this great institution, which held me in good stead, wherever I went. I am a proud Aloysian with the best interests at heart of this institution. As they make crossroads on the path of being Deemed to be University, I wish and pray for success in every measure which is well deserved considering the utopian standards that it has laid for every individual walking through the corridors of this institution. Ultimately, it's not the education alone but the institution that is worthy of applause too. Staying true to the words of St Ignatius of Loyola, Go forth and set the world on fire!

Gratitude always, to my beloved Alma Mater!