Media Release
Mangaluru, Aug 26: St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) hosted a vibrant national-level fest for pre-university students on Monday at the LF Rasquinha Hall, LCRI Block, drawing over 2,200 participants from 64 colleges across Karnataka and neighboring states.
The fest was inaugurated by Dr Kanyana Sadashiva Shetty, a proud alumnus of the university, renowned entrepreneur, and industrialist. In his heartfelt address, He expressed deep gratitude to his alma mater, saying, “I never get tired of coming back to this college. It’s my pride institution. Whatever I am today is because of Aloysius.” He praised the university’s commitment to holistic education and urged students to balance academics with active participation in campus events. He emphasized the importance of morality; a value he said was instilled in him during his time at Aloysius and continues to guide his personal and professional life.
Indian film actor and fellow alumnus Raj Deepak Shetty served as guest of honour and was felicitated by the university. In his address, he described St Aloysius as a magical place that nurtured his growth from a backbencher to a successful artist. “Once an Aloysian, always an Aloysian,” he declared, encouraging students to find motivation within themselves and pursue their dreams with confidence.
Presiding over the event, Dr Praveen Martis SJ, vice chancellor of the university, delivered a powerful message on perseverance and purpose. Quoting Dr APJ Abdul Kalam’s phrase “FAIL – First Attempt in Learning,” he urged students to embrace challenges and give their best in every endeavor.
The fest also recognized outstanding individuals for their achievements in diverse fields. Apeksha Kottary, assistant professor in the school of commerce, was honored for her record-setting explosion box themed “Incredible India,” which earned accolades from the India Book of Records and Exclusive World Records. Remona Evette Pereira, a gifted Bharatanatyam dancer and recipient of the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, was celebrated for her 170-hour non-stop dance performance. Adi Swaroopa, a BA psychology student, was recognized for her exceptional memory and artistic talents, having earned eight world records and contributed to a Guinness World Record mosaic project.
Wisdom Education founder Dr Guru Tej and managing director Dr Francisca Tej were the chief guests of the valedictory ceremony. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Francisca Tej said that in today's era, education is not limited to only books, in the future there will be competition in every field you go to. Students should have a good attitude of new thinking and critical analysis. She said that this institution is encouraging extracurricular activities along with curricular activities.
The closing ceremony was presided over by Fr Melwin Joseph Pinto S, the rector of St Aloysius Educational Institutions. Dr Alwyn D’Sa, registrar of the college, Dr Ronald Nazareth, registrar of the university, finance minister Fr Vishwas Misquith, SJ, various fest coordinators, and cultural secretary, Shravani K Bhat were present on the dais.
More than 60 pre-university colleges participated in a total of 36 competitions. St Aloysius Gonzaga Pre-university College, Mangaluru, won the first place, while SDM Pre-university College, Ujire won the second place. In the cultural festival competition, SDM Pre-university College, Ujire won the first place, while Kanachur Mahila Pada Purva won the second place.
At the opening ceremony, coordinator Bhavya Shetty welcomed the gathering, and co-coordinator Dr Smitha DK proposed the vote of thanks. At the closing ceremony, co-coordinator Dr Dinesh Nayak welcomed the gathering, and student union president Anson Rego proposed the vote of thanks. Students Jenicia and Alia Khan compered the programme.