Daijiworld Media Network- Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Nov 16: St Joseph Engineering College (SJEC), Vamanjoor, celebrated its College Day with grandeur on Saturday at the SJEC campus, featuring a formal ceremony followed by a vibrant cultural extravaganza.
Ivan D’Souza, MLC, was the chief guest, while Fr Wilfred Prakash D’Souza, director of SJEC, presided over the programme. Dr Rio D’Souza, principal, presented the annual report outlining achievements in academics, research, sports, innovation and student development. Dr Sunitha Guruprasad and Dr Swaraj Dominic Lewis served as the convenors.
The ceremony began with an invocation and a traditional dance, followed by a welcome dance ahead of the formal proceedings.
Fr Kenneth Rayner Crasta, assistant director, addressed the gathering and introduced the chief guest, stating, “Over the past 23 years, the college has achieved all-round excellence in academics, sports, research and beyond, under the Almighty’s blessings.”
The prize distribution ceremony honoured academic toppers and achievers. Dr Sudheer M, dean of academic affairs, announced the winners, while vice principal Dr Purushothama Chippar invited them to the stage. Faculty members who secured PhD degrees were also felicitated. Sports achievers were honoured by Dr Jyothi Damodar, dean of student welfare, and cultural programme awards were presented on the same stage.
Addressing the audience, Ivan D’Souza said, “This is my second visit to SJEC. My political journey began during my college days. At a young age, we can shape our destiny in this competitive world. Dream big, think differently, and become employers rather than employees. Engineering is a vast open book with endless opportunities.”
Following the felicitation of the chief guest, Fr Wilfred Prakash D’Souza delivered the presidential address: “There is something extraordinary within each of you waiting to shine. Like Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, who dared to dream, and Elon Musk, who thought differently, exceptional results stem from daily choices, a little extra effort, discipline and dedication.”
Dr Sunitha Guruprasad proposed the vote of thanks. The formal programme was compered by Jostel and Prajwala, while the cultural segment—featuring singing, dance and live music—was hosted by Abhinav R Bolar, Thrapthi B K and Asher Pinto.
The event concluded on an inspiring note, reaffirming SJEC’s commitment to academic excellence and holistic development.