Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 8: St Aloysius College Higher Primary School, Kodialbail, celebrated Teachers’ Day with great joy and enthusiasm on September 7 at the school auditorium. The chief guest for the occasion was Fr Prashanth Madtha, SJ, accompanied by Fr Johnson Pinto, SJ, correspondent.
The celebration commenced with a solemn Eucharistic celebration held in honour of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Holy Mass was celebrated by Fr Kiran Lobo, Carmelite, who offered prayers and blessings for the school community.
The formal programme began with a prayer song presented by the students of grade IV, invoking God’s blessings upon the gathering. This was followed by a graceful welcome dance by the students of grade VII, which added colour and vibrancy to the celebration.
Lavina Veigas, PTA vice president, warmly welcomed the gathering and expressed her gratitude to the dignitaries, teachers, parents and students for being part of the celebration.
The significance of the day was presented by the students of grade IV. Through their presentation, they highlighted the importance of Teachers’ Day, the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Krishna Janmashtami and Eid Milad, emphasizing the values of love, respect, faith, harmony and togetherness.
The chief guest, Fr Prashanth Madtha, SJ, was introduced by Tr Veena Menezes. Fr Prashanth Madtha, SJ, is a prolific writer whose literary journey spans more than four decades. As a multilingual writer, he has enriched the literary world through his writings in Kannada, Konkani and English, spreading the light of knowledge and wisdom among thousands of readers.
He is the former principal of St Aloysius College, Mangaluru, now St Aloysius (Deemed to be University). He has also served in various capacities at St Joseph’s institutions in Bengaluru, carrying out his responsibilities with dedication and commitment.
It was a proud moment to acknowledge his recognition as the third Jesuit priest to receive the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award, in appreciation of his valuable contribution to Kannada language and literature.
In his inspiring message, Fr Prashanth Madtha, SJ, spoke to the students about the importance of respecting teachers. He beautifully reminded them that teachers are like mothers who nurture, guide and care for their students with love and concern.
Following his message, the chief guest was felicitated by the correspondent, Fr Johnson Pinto, SJ and the headmistress, Jositta Noronha, as a mark of respect and gratitude.
The cultural programme continued with a colourful and captivating dance performance by the students of grade IV, depicting the celebrations of Shri Krishna Janmashtami, the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Eid Milad and Teachers’ Day. The performance beautifully portrayed the spirit of unity and harmony among different celebrations and traditions.
Adding a special touch to the celebration, the PTA members presented a melodious song dedicated to the teachers, followed by an energetic dance performance. Their heartfelt gesture brought immense joy to the teachers and students and made the celebration even more memorable.
The programme was compered by the school cabinet leaders of grade VII, who conducted the proceedings with confidence and enthusiasm. The programme concluded with the vote of thanks proposed by Tr Deepsika D'Souza, the secretary of the PTA, expressing gratitude to all those who contributed to making the celebration a meaningful and memorable one.
The celebration was a beautiful tribute to the dedication, love and selfless service of teachers, reminding everyone that teachers play a vital role in shaping young minds and building a better future.