Pics: Nayana J C
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (NJC)
Mangaluru, Nov 21: The primary section of Lourdes Central School (LCS), Bejai, celebrated the first day of its Annual Day 2025 with a grand cultural showcase themed ‘LCS Expressions Alive – A Stage for Every Voice’. The event saw an extraordinary participation of 1,066 young performers from classes I–VI, reflecting the school’s commitment to confidence-building and holistic development.
The programme commenced with a prayer and a graceful welcome dance that set a lively tone for the evening. Parents, teachers and guests filled the LCS Grounds as the colourful performances unfolded one after another, highlighting the creativity and discipline of the young students.
The school management warmly felicitated guest of honour Michael D’Souza for his contributions to education and social service. A shawl and memento were presented as a gesture of appreciation.
Michael D’Souza expressed heartfelt admiration for Lourdes Central School and the values it instils. He reminded students of their responsibility to family, community and nation, urging them to nurture honesty, hard work and simplicity. “Let your character speak for you when you build it, success will follow,” he said. D’Souza advised children to choose friends wisely and welcomed parents and teachers to walk together in shaping character. Recounting his own journey, he stressed that dedication and consistent effort matter more than raw talent. He concluded by encouraging students to dream big while lifting others along the way.
Chief guest Dr Praveen Martis SJ praised the theme ‘Expressions Alive - A Stage for Every Voice’ and lauded LCS’s journey since 1999. He congratulated the management, principal and faculty for nurturing vision and values in students. Highlighting the evolving landscape of education, he urged attention to the humanisation of technology ensuring digital skills are guided by compassion and purpose. He encouraged pupils to cultivate vision, purpose and compassion so they may become responsible global citizens.
Principal Fr Johnson L Sequeira expressed pride as 1,066 primary students prepared to showcase their talents under the theme ‘LCS Expressions Alive’. He highlighted the school’s strong facilities and compliance with educational standards, emphasising integral formation—the school’s mission to educate the whole child: intellectually, emotionally, morally, socially and spiritually. He reminded parents and teachers that true education creates confident, compassionate and well-rounded citizens.
The evening featured thematic dances, musical numbers, skits and coordinated class-wise presentations that celebrated imagination, teamwork and expression. The programme also honoured student achievements with special prizes in academics and sports, encouraging excellence across diverse fields.
The event was held under the leadership of Dr John Baptist Saldanha (manager) and Fr Johnson L Sequeira (principal), supported by the dedicated faculty and staff of Lourdes Central School. The dignitaries applauded the tireless efforts of teachers who trained the children for weeks to bring the theme alive on stage.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, marking a memorable evening that celebrated talent, values and the vibrant spirit of the Lourdes Central School community.