Media Release

Mangaluru, Sep 7: The Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy (KKSA), in collaboration with the Catholic Sabha, Bondel Unit, organised a special Teachers’ Day programme to honour the teachers of Bondel parish on Sunday, September 6, at the church hall.

The programme commenced with the rendition of ‘Bharata Jananiya Tanujate,’ the Karnataka state anthem. Joachim Stany Alvares, president of the Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy, welcomed and honoured the dignitaries and representatives of the organising bodies.

Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, bishop emeritus of the diocese of Mangalore, was the chief guest. Joachim Stany Alvares and Fr Basil Vas, rector of St Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel, were the guests of honour. Tr Jessy Cutinha, retired teacher, and Sujay D’Silva, president of Catholic Sabha, Bondel Unit, were also present.

The programme was inaugurated through the traditional lighting of the lamp. Addressing the gathering, bishop Emeritus Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza highlighted the three important aspects of education — information, formation and transformation. He reminded teachers that teaching is not merely a profession but a mission and a precious blessing, calling them to serve with love and selflessness.

Teacher Praveen Cutinha of Bondel parish, recipient of the District-Level Best Teacher Award, and teacher Roshan Alexander Pinto, recipient of the State-Level Best Teacher Award, were felicitated for their achievements. In his message, Tr Roshan Alexander Pinto emphasised that teachers should serve with sincerity, honesty and love.

Fr Basil Vas said that dedicated teachers have the power to transform society and described teaching as a noble mission. The resource person, teacher Jessy Cutinha, stressed that a teacher plays several important roles in a child's life — as a mother, friend and guide — and is a role model in shaping the future of society.

A special segment was held to commemorate the 30th death anniversary of the late bishop Basil D’Souza. His portrait was placed beside the dais, and the dignitaries and participants paid floral tribute in remembrance of his selfless service and lasting contributions to the Church, the poor and the Konkani language.

Prof Stephen Quadras, former principal and renowned writer, engaged in a dialogue with bishop Emeritus Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza and Fr Basil Vas, recalling the life and legacy of bishop Basil D’Souza. His simplicity, humility, love for the poor, and contributions to Konkani literature and the Konkani Mass were fondly remembered.

Sujay D’Silva proposed the vote of thanks, while Wilfred Alvares compered the programme. Refreshments were served to all, and a small Teachers’ Day gift was presented to the teachers. The programme concluded with the Thanksgiving Hymn.

The celebration was a meaningful occasion to recognise and honour the dedication and invaluable contribution of teachers in shaping young lives and building a better society.