Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (ANK)
Mangaluru, Jan 3: The Apostolic Carmel Congregation superior general Sr M Susheela A.C inaugurated Mother Mary Aloysia Centenary memorial building and centenary celebrations at St Agnes College on Friday, January 3.
In her inaugural address, Sr Susheela expressed her happiness on becoming a part of the centenary celebrations' inaugural. “St Agnes College has touched several milestones in its 100 years of existence and the long journey has been an enriching one. Students in St Agnes learn to value freedom, responsibility and commitment. The alumnae who have graduated from the portals of this college have contributed towards the transformation of this educational institution,” she said.
Mangaluru diocese bishop Dr Peter Paul Saldanha said, "I feel privileged that I am a part of the centenary celebrations' inaugural. The college has walked long distances and empowered women in making them the effective citizens of this country. The alumnae are proud to call themselves as Agnesians. The institution has created confident women.”
MLA U T Khader said, "St Agnes College has contributed a lot to the society and the country in the field of education. The institution has lived up to the expectations of the parents who admit their children in this prestigious institution. The principal Sr Jeswina is an efficient principal with a calm personality who is capable of handling any crisis with ease".
Vice chancellor Mangaluru University Prof P S Yadapadithaya said, "St Agnes College is electrifying and a landmark. In last 100 years, we have witnessed several milestones. The institution has empowered women, who have excelled in their career. This college is known for its contributions and achievements and stands out among the crowd of colleges.”
Director Rambus Inc USA Meera Rao said, "This college has offered quality education and empowered women. This College teaches its students to believe in themselves and become leaders in whatever they do.”
In her welcome address, St Agnes College principal Sr Dr Jeswina Ac pointed out that St Agnes College is a legacy of the sisters of the Apostolic Carmel that was instituted to commemorate the golden years of the Apostolic Carmel Congregation, founded by Mother Veronica in India in 1870. “The centenary year and all the celebrations remind us of the second superior general of the Apostolic Carmel Mother Mary Aloysia, the founder of St Agnes College and a pioneering visionary in the mission of education.”
The donors who contributed generously for the Mother Aloysia Centenary Block were honoured. Ivory Grand Real Estate Managing Director Michael D’Souza, Faizal and Shabana Foundation directors Shabana and Faizal represented by Dr Joseph Sebastian, Dockendale Shipping Co Ltd former Chairman Leslie J Fernandes, Hyssna International managing director Ronald Pinto, The World Banks Consultant-African Development Bank former senior advisor Brian Pinto who was represented by his sister Dr Gerlyn Pinto and other contributors were felicitated on the occasion.
MLC Ivan D Souza and Former MLA J R Lobo released calendar of events for the centenary year which carries 100 activities and 5 mega events.
Apostolic Carmel Karnataka Province superior Sr M Shamitha A C, alumni convenor Dr Meera Aranha, joint secretary St Agnes College Dr Maria Roopa A C and Principal St Agnes PU College Sr Norine D’Souza were present.
St Agnes vice principal Sr Venissa A C rendered the vote of thanks. Staff convener Dr Malini Hebbar compered the programme.
Earlier in the day, Mangaluru diocese bishop Dr Peter Paul Saldanha blessed the Mother Aloysia centenary building. A thanksgiving Eucharistic celebration was held. Bishop Dr Peter Paul Saldanha was the main celebrant and was joined by Mangaluru diocese bishop emeritus Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza and Udupi Bishop Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo. Karnataka Jesuit Province Provincial Superior Fr Dr Jerome Stanislaus D’Souza SJ delivered the homily.