Media Release
Mangaluru, Jun 30: The thirteenth Graduation Day of St Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru, was held on Saturday, June 27 in the Mother Mary Aloysia Centenary Auditorium of the college. The Graduation Day marked a significant milestone in the lives of the graduating batch of 2022–2025, celebrating the academic excellence and successful completion of the programmes of 647 graduates from the undergraduate, postgraduate, MBA and MCA streams of the institution.
The formal programme commenced with a soulful rendition of the Nadageethe by the students of the college choir, setting a solemn and patriotic tone for the celebration. Dr Deviprabha Alva, associate professor of commerce introduced the chief guest and welcomed the gathering. Sr Maria Naveena AC, provincial superior of Apostolic Carmel, Karnataka province and Sr Dr Marie Prem Dsouza AC, joint secretary of St Agnes Institutions honoured the dignitaries with saplings, as a sign of respect and gratitude.
The thirteenth Graduation Day was formally inaugurated by Sr Maria Naveena AC, provincial superior of the Apostolic Carmel, Karnataka Province, marking a memorable milestone in the academic journey of the graduates. Following the inauguration, Shubha Rekha, the controller of examinations, presented 470 UG, 68 PG and 109 MBA and MCA candidates for the conferment of degrees to the dignitaries, after which Sr Dr M Venissa AC, principal, administered the graduation oath, reaffirming the graduates' commitment to uphold the values of knowledge, integrity and service.
The chief guest, Prof S R Niranjana, vice chairman, Karnataka State Higher Education Council (KSHEC) and former vice chancellor, Gulbarga University, delivered the Graduation Day Address. Congratulating the graduates on reaching a significant milestone in their academic journey, he emphasized that education is the foundation for shaping responsible individuals capable of contributing meaningfully to society and the nation's sustainable development. In his address, Prof Niranjana highlighted India's rich educational heritage and underscored the relevance of multidisciplinary education, drawing parallels between ancient centres of learning such as Nalanda and Takshashila and the vision of the National Education Policy. He stressed that higher education must promote critical thinking, innovation, research and skill development to prepare graduates for the challenges of the twenty-first century.
He encouraged the students to cultivate essential life skills, including communication, leadership, emotional intelligence, digital literacy, artificial intelligence literacy, teamwork, creativity and lifelong learning, enabling them to remain adaptable in a rapidly changing world. Reflecting on India's remarkable achievements in science, technology, research and innovation, he urged the graduates to contribute to the nation's progress through knowledge, ethical values and a commitment to excellence. Concluding his address, he emphasized that strengthening the quality, accessibility, and inclusiveness of higher education is vital for achieving sustainable development and realizing India's vision of becoming a globally developed nation by 2047.
In her presidential address, Sr Maria Naveena AC reflected on the significance of graduation as the beginning of a new chapter in the lives of the students. She urged the graduates to pursue their aspirations with confidence, remain rooted in strong values, and contribute positively to society through their knowledge and service.
Sr Dr Vinora AC PG coordinator announced the names of the 22 rank holders, who were felicitated with rank certificates and cash prizes in recognition of their outstanding academic performance. Subsequently, Shanthi Nazareth, dean of administration, Dr Kavyashree, dean of PG Studies, Dr Meera Devi, dean, faculty of arts; Vidya Patali, dean, faculty of science and Chethana, dean commerce and management and faculty of business administration, Dr Sabina, IQAC coordinator announced the names of the graduates from their respective faculties for the conferment of degrees.
Helen Serrao, associate professor, department of chemistry, was the master of ceremonies. Dr Mallika Shetty, assistant professor from the department of MBA proposed the vote of thanks.
Sr Dr Maria Sudeepa AC, educational secretary of Apostolic Carmel Congregation, Sr Dr Rose Agnes AC, assistant provincial superior, Sr Dr Roopa AC, vice principal, Sr Dr M Vinora AC, coordinator of post graduate studies and superior of St Agnes Convent, Shubharekha, the controller of examinations, Dr Sangappa, head of the department of physics representing the University of Mangalore, Prof Paul Gerald and Santhosh Rebello members of the academic council were the other dignitaries present on the occasion.
The ceremony concluded with Sr Maria Naveena AC formally declaring the thirteenth Graduation Day closed.
The programme concluded with the National Anthem, bringing to a close a memorable celebration of academic achievement attended by distinguished guests, Members of the Governing Body, Board of Studies and Board of Examinations, faculty members, proud parents, and the graduating students.