Media Release

Mangaluru, Sep 6: St Aloysius Pre-University College, Mangaluru, marked Teachers’ Day with a programme that brought together students, teaching and non-teaching staff and parents to acknowledge the role of teachers in shaping young minds.

The celebrations, featuring cultural performances, staff competitions, games and reflections on the teaching profession, combined moments of festivity with a focus on the responsibility of educators to support and nurture every learner.

The celebrations opened on a lively and joyful note as the student council presented a vibrant cultural tribute to the teachers. Through energetic dance performances, melodious songs and heartfelt expressions of gratitude, the students celebrated the mentors who guide, encourage and inspire them throughout their academic journey.

The performances created a festive atmosphere and reflected the affection and respect the students hold for their teachers. As a token of gratitude and appreciation, the student council also presented mementoes to all teaching and non-teaching staff members, acknowledging their dedicated service and valuable contribution to the institution.

Principal Fr Clifford Sequeira SJ, addressing the gathering, praised the teaching fraternity for its commitment and acknowledged the sacrifices that often go unnoticed. He spoke of the joy and fulfilment associated with the profession and reminded teachers that students are entrusted to their care not only for academic instruction but also for the development of their individual personalities.

“The greatest joy for a teacher is to see you grow into good, confident and wonderful human beings,” he said, urging students to continue learning, growing and spreading love and joy wherever they go.

The opening segment also marked the conclusion of competitions organised for the teaching staff. Prizes were presented to the winners of the ‘Cooking Without Fire’ competition and the Teachers’ Fashion Talent Show. The activities offered teachers an opportunity to display their creativity and talents outside the classroom while encouraging informal interaction among colleagues.

The formal programme began with a prayer service, followed by a special entertainment programme presented by the non-teaching staff for their teaching colleagues. The contribution reflected the involvement of the wider college community in the celebration.

A key highlight was the address by principal Fr Clifford Sequeira SJ, who reflected on the meaning and responsibility of teaching. He spoke of the joy and fulfilment inherent in the profession and reminded teachers that students are entrusted to their care not only for academic instruction but also for the formation of their personalities.

The principal urged teachers to pay particular attention to students who struggle academically, stressing the need for additional love, encouragement and support. He emphasised that every student should be given an opportunity to progress and excel. “For God loves everyone and no one is lost,” he said.

The principal also reflected on the qualities that distinguish a good teacher. He remarked that a teacher’s heart is larger than a normal heart because it is filled with love and generosity. He noted that students often look to their teachers for recognition and validation, making encouragement an important part of the educational process.

His message placed particular emphasis on the individual learner. Rather than measuring a teacher’s responsibility only through academic achievement, he highlighted the need to recognise students who may require greater attention and support. The approach reflected the broader Jesuit understanding of education, in which academic formation is accompanied by personal care and a commitment to the development of the whole person.

Fr Clifford thanked the teachers for their contribution to shaping students and strengthening the institution. He encouraged them to continue their work in the spirit of Magis, the Jesuit call to seek greater commitment, excellence and service.

The programme then moved into a more informal phase, with a series of games organised for the staff. The activities encouraged participation and interaction among colleagues, providing a break from their routine responsibilities and adding a recreational dimension to the celebration.

The Parent-Teacher Association also joined the occasion with a song and dance performance dedicated to the teachers. The presentation conveyed the appreciation of parents and highlighted the importance of cooperation between families and educators in supporting the academic and personal development of students.

A dance-drama presented by the department of computer science followed. The performance explored the role of teachers and educational institutions in shaping the future of young people.

Through a combination of movement and dramatic expression, it presented education as a process that influences not only academic learning but also the aspirations, values and direction of students.

The final segment featured the distribution of prizes to staff members who had performed well in the ‘Rang Sangam’ competitions conducted as part of Harmony Week.

The day brought together the college community in a shared celebration of education and service. Its central message was clear: the influence of a teacher extends beyond the lessons taught in the classroom. By recognising the potential of each student and offering greater support to those who struggle, educators can make a lasting contribution to the formation of young people and to the creation of a more compassionate and responsible society.