Media Release
Mangaluru, Feb 25: St Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru, successfully hosted the International Conference on Fostering Sustainability: The Convergence of Education and Ecological Responsibility at the Mother Mary Aloysia Centenary Auditorium on Tuesday, February 25.
Prof Lionel Aranha, a distinguished chartered accountant and lawyer, graced the event as the guest of honour. The keynote address was delivered by Prof Dr Ismail Hakki Mirici, director of Haceteppe University Graduate School of Educational Sciences, Ankara, Turkey. Other esteemed resource persons included Dr Semra Mirici, professor at Gazi University, Faculty of Education, Ankara, Turkey; Prof Dennis Quillala, assistant professor in the department of political science and president for academic affairs at the University of the Philippines Diliman; and Dr Maher Spurgeon, consultant and director of South Asia, United Board for Christian Higher Education in Asia, New York.
The conference was inaugurated with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the dignitaries.
Addressing the gathering, Prof Lionel Aranha commended St Agnes College for its commitment to women’s empowerment and urged students to contribute to sustainable solutions for global challenges. He shared an insightful message: “Live it, leave it, sustain it”, emphasizing the need for a sustainable lifestyle to preserve the environment for future generations.
Prof Dr Ismail Mirici stressed the importance of moving towards sustainable living to nurture and protect the environment for generations to come.
Principal Sr Dr M Venissa AC highlighted the interconnectedness of knowledge and nature, stating that education is the foundation of transformation. She emphasized that fostering sustainability is essential for living in harmony with ecological responsibility and collaboration.
Among the dignitaries present were Sr Dr Maria Roopa AC, joint secretary of St Agnes Institution; Sr Dr M Venissa AC, principal and president of the inaugural; Sr Dr Roopa Rodrigues AC, vice principal; Sr M Carmelrita AC, administrator; Sr Dr M Vinora AC, PG coordinator; and Dr Sabina Lobo, IQAC coordinator. Also in attendance were delegates from various institutions, special invitees, well-wishers, program convenor Mrs Gayathri BK, assistant professor of political science, and organizing secretary Ms Florine, assistant professor in the department of economics, along with deans, heads of departments, faculty members, students, and paper presenters.
The formal program commenced with a splendid Guard of Honour, followed by a prayer song and a thematic dance that added grace and elegance to the event. Mrs Gayathri BK welcomed the gathering and introduced the guest of honour and keynote speaker. The master of ceremony, Ms Raveena Mascarenhas, assistant professor of English, ensured the smooth flow of the program, while Dr Sabina D’Souza delivered the vote of thanks.
The valedictory ceremony was presided over by chief guest Dr Smitha Hegde, director of research at the Centre for Advanced Learning, Mangaluru.
The conference inspired participants to take meaningful steps toward sustainability, reinforcing the role of education in fostering ecological responsibility. The enthusiasm and active participation of attendees made the event truly remarkable.