Media Release
Mangaluru, Oct 2: Mangalore IAS – A School for Civil Services inaugurated its Civil Services Training Programme – Foundational Course for high school, PUC and degree students at Sandesha Foundation, Premnagar, Bajjodi, Mangaluru, on Friday.
The programme was inaugurated by Dr Eric Christopher Lobo, MSc, PhD, FIFCC, professor of biochemistry, Yenepoya University, who was also the chief guest and delivered the keynote address.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Roy Castelino, trustee, Sandesha Foundation and coordinator, Mangalore IAS. The ceremonial inauguration was marked by the lighting of the lamp by Dr Eric Christopher Lobo. Laveena Pinto, manager, Mangalore IAS, introduced the chief guest.
In his keynote address, Dr Lobo interacted with the students and encouraged them to develop a strong foundation, discipline and a spirit of continuous learning as they prepare for competitive examinations and future careers in public service.
Santosh Kumar S, founder, Mangalore IAS, spoke about Mangalore IAS and the objectives of the Foundational Course. He highlighted the importance of introducing civil services-oriented learning at an early stage and creating awareness among students about the wide range of competitive examinations and career opportunities available to them.
Fr Roshan Rosario, director, Sandesha Foundation, felicitated the occasion. The school uniform and identity cards for the students were launched by Roy Castelino.
The programme also witnessed the presence of Ronald Mendonca, secretary, CASK.
A special interactive session by Santhosh Rao, director, Mangalore IAS, followed the inaugural programme. The marathon two-and-a-half-hour session kept the students engaged, with the participants listening with keen interest and enthusiasm. Rao expressed his appreciation for the enthusiasm and interest shown by the students and wished them a bright and successful future.
The programme was particularly significant as 2026 marks the centenary of the establishment of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), which was established on October 1, 1926. The occasion provided an appropriate backdrop for encouraging young students to learn about civil services and public administration at an early stage.
Prof Suresh Kateel, associate professor of history (Retd) and faculty, Mangalore IAS, proposed the vote of thanks. The programme concluded with the National Anthem, followed by refreshments and fellowship.
The foundational course is designed to provide students from high school, PUC and degree levels with early exposure to civil services preparation, general awareness, current affairs, aptitude and other areas that can help them build a strong foundation for future competitive examinations.