Media Release
Mangaluru, Jun 18: The investiture ceremony for the academic year 2026-2027 was held with great zeal and enthusiasm at St Aloysius College Higher Primary School, Kodialbail on June 18. The chief guest for the occasion was Allen C A Pereira, a proud alumnus of the institution and former chairman and managing director of Bank of Maharashtra.
The programme commenced with a soulful prayer song presented by the students of classes V and VI, setting a serene and reverent tone for the event.
The gathering was graciously welcomed with a graceful and captivating welcome dance performed by Varshini Upadhyaya. Her elegant performance set a joyous tone for the ceremony and enthralled the audience. Naomi Lobo of class VII extended a cordial welcome to the dignitaries and the audience.
Tanya Feston introduced the chief guest, Allen C A Pereira who has rendered over 33 years of distinguished service at Syndicate Bank. His exemplary leadership led to his appointment by the Government of India as the executive director of Oriental Bank of Commerce and later as the chairman and managing director of Bank of Maharashtra.
At the special invitation of the Reserve Bank of India, he served as director of the National Institute of Bank Management. At present, he continues to contribute his expertise to global financial technology companies. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he is a dedicated mentor to NGOs engaged in healthcare and community development and is also a passionate environmentalist. In recognition of his outstanding achievements, he has been honoured with the prestigious Eminent Aloysian Award.
In his address, Allen C A Pereira fondly reminisced about his childhood days as an Aloysian. Speaking of leadership and discipline, he encouraged students to identify their capabilities and pursue their goals accordingly. He urged them to cultivate the habit of reading books and continually enhance their knowledge.
The chief guest was felicitated for his remarkable achievements in the field of banking by Fr Johnson Pinto, SJ, correspondent of St Aloysius College Higher Primary School, Jositta Noronha, headmistress, Liya D'Souza, assistant headmaster and Mohammed Iqbal, PTA vice-president.
The newly elected school council included SPL Jordan Thoras, ASPL Vinston Lobo and secretary Adhya M Rai. The council members were invested with sashes and badges by the dignitaries. This was followed by the oath-taking ceremony led by the headmistress, Jositta Noronha, wherein the council bearers pledged to discharge their responsibilities sincerely and abide by the rules and regulations of the school. They also vowed to uphold the school motto, “Shine to Enkindle,” in high esteem.
In his inspiring message, Fr Johnson Pinto, SJ congratulated the newly elected leaders and emphasised the words, “Serve with dignity, lead with confidence.” He reminded the students that true leadership is not about authority but about serving others with humility and dignity. He encouraged them to be worthy role models for their peers through exemplary conduct and demeanour.
The programme was beautifully compered by Raynylyn Serrao, Samuel Amon, Leon Roy, Shivani and Prajwal H who conducted the proceedings with confidence and grace.
The vote of thanks was proposed by Dhrithi, who expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the event.
The ceremony concluded on a melodious note with the singing of the institutional anthem by the school choir.