Mangalore: Women must take the lead - Dr Shantaram Shetty at St Agnes annual day
Pics: Ramesh Pandith
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore (SN)
Mangalore, Jan 25: The students and staff at St Agnes Degree College celebrated their annual day with a colourful event on Friday January 24 on the campus.
Dr Shantaram Shetty, pro-chancellor, NITTE University, and Fr Augustine Lobo, national director, Pontifical Society of India, were the chief guests.
Dr Shetty, in his speech, advised the students to work hard and achieve their goals. He appreciated the efforts put in by the management and staff at the college and said, “The principal of a college is the backbone of its success. Their ideas help students to lead and they must be given due credit. Educate a woman and you will educate a society."
"St Agnes College has for the past many years helped women become better human beings and take a stance in society. Some of the students have emerged leaders in various fields. I am a proud parent as my daughters studied in this institution. Parents form an integral part and must encourage their children," he said.
He added, “The men and women of Mangalore have excelled not only in the field of education but in banking, health, and the service sector of the city.”
Dr Shetty advised students not to ignore their dreams and to realize them as they are lucky to be equipped with education. He cited the examples of hard work and success stories of Usain Bolt, Thomas Edison, and Edmund Hilary.
He concluded his speech with the words "Men have failed to lead, so women must do so."
Fr Faustine Lobo congratulated the staff and students on being able to be a part of this institution. "Students must grab on to the varied opportunities and be an example to lead. Youth must be more committed to their work."
Dr S Philip, PTA president, Sr Lydia Fernandes, joint secretary, Sr Marie Prem D'Souza, principal, Sr Carmel Rita, and Sr Olivia presided over the programme.
The students marched onto the grounds along with the college band, NCC cadets, student cabinet, staff, and the guests.
A song to invoke God's blessings and a welcome dance were presented by the students. Dr Noeline Pinto, professor, department of Botany, delivered the welcome speech.
The college report was presented in an audio-visual format by Sr Prem, Prof Geralyn Pinto, and cabinet members.
This was soon followed by a cultural programme by students focusing on folklore and folk art forms.
The formal programme began with the felicitation of Dr Prem D'Souza, principal, St Agnes College, who will retire next year.
Students were then felicitated and merit certificates were distributed by the guests.