Pics: Abhijith N Kolpe
Media Release
Mangaluru, Jan 25: The valedictory ceremony for the outgoing batch of 2023-25 at St Aloysius Pre-University College was held on January 25. The event marked an emotional yet celebratory moment as students, faculty, and dignitaries came together to bid farewell to the graduating batch.
The programme commenced with a heartfelt prayer service, expressing gratitude to the Almighty for His blessings and seeking guidance for the students as they embark on a new chapter of their lives.
Holy scriptures were read, followed by the traditional lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries and members of the students' council carrying lighted candles—an expression of dispelling darkness and embodying the role of beacons of light.
Prayers were offered for the well-being of the students. A symbolic representation of values followed, where the stages of a plant depicted the students' journey — from the moment they step into the college to the time they leave, nurtured and ready to flourish.
The principal, Fr Clifford Sequeira. blessed the students, praying that they excel in all their endeavours, celebrate life in all its forms, and find joy and optimism even in challenges. He encouraged them to spread peace and harmony, bringing happiness to their families and pride to the institution.
He concluded with the inspiring words of Rabindranath Tagore: "Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high; Where knowledge is free...Into that heaven of freedom, my Father, let my country awake," and the shloka "Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu," invoking blessings for universal happiness and well-being.
A group of dancers gracefully welcomed the gathering through a captivating performance that set the tone for the event.
The principal addressed the gathering, warmly welcoming everyone. He urged the students to reflect on their journey, express gratitude to God, and acknowledge all who contributed to their growth and success.
He thanked the parents for their unwavering support and the teachers for their guidance and care. Through an anecdote of a young man and an astrologer, he emphasised that obstacles should prepare us for future challenges rather than pull us down. He encouraged students to take the values of compassion, kindness, and service learned at the institution into the world.
The chief guest, Dr Godfred Antony Menezes, a distinguished microbiologist and alumnus of the institution, and the professor and chairperson of Medical Microbiology & Immunology at RAK Medical & Health Sciences University, UAE, expressed deep nostalgia as he returned to the place where his journey began.
He spoke about how the college lays the foundation for pursuing dreams and instills the courage to face challenges. Drawing from his own experiences, he highlighted the importance of curiosity in fostering innovation and growth and encouraged students to view challenges as opportunities to grow stronger.
He also stressed on using their potential not just for personal success but to uplift others. Acknowledging the road ahead as challenging, he reassured the students that the strong foundation built by the college would help them navigate life’s hurdles.
Fr Melwin Pinto SJ, the rector, also an alumnus of the institution, expressed his emotional connection to the students. While he admitted feeling saddened by their departure, he found solace in knowing they would return as proud alumni. Reflecting on the lighter moments of student life, he reminded them to avoid behaviours that cause heartache and urged them to help peers avoid such pitfalls.
Referring to the earlier symbolic representation of values, he likened students to fruits that bear seeds, which, when nurtured, grow to bear more fruit. He emphasised the importance of being ambassadors of the institution, spreading its values wherever life takes them. He concluded by acknowledging the contribution of the staff in shaping the students and the institution.
The programme featured a variety of cultural performances, including mesmerising dance performances and soulful musical renditions, which created a lively and emotional atmosphere. A touching video presentation reminisced the cherished moments of the outgoing batch, evoking smiles and nostalgia among students and faculty alike.
Students Elishia Joan Baptist, Raghuram R Kotecha, and Anna Maria Patrao shared their two years of experiences at the college, highlighting the opportunities and growth they had experienced both academically and personally.
Students were awarded certificates in recognition of their achievements. Anisha Andrade from the Department of Mathematics and Deepthi Rani M K from the Department of English enumerated the list of prize winners.
The ceremony concluded with heartfelt gratitude expressed by the staff convenor.
Present for the valedictory ceremony were vice-principals Muralikrishna G M and Vilma Fernandes, the dean, Kiran Shetty, along with the staff convenors of the programme, Manasa K (Department of Physics), Dulcin Sequeira (Department of Chemistry), and Sowmya N (Department of Mathematics).
Ethan Raphael Tauro and Anne Loraine Noronha, first-year students, skillfully compered the programme, ensuring its smooth flow and engaging the audience throughout.