Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (VP)
Mangaluru, Aug 12: St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) and the St Aloysius College Alumni Association (SACAA) held a felicitation programme for MLC Ivan D'Souza on Monday, August 12, at the LF Rasquinha Hall, LCRI Block.
Dr Praveen Martis SJ, vice chancellor of St Aloysius Deemed to be University, praised MLC Ivan D'Souza during the event, stating, "This is a unique and special day for this institution. When a student achieves something, the institution and SACAA members come together to honour them. Re-election is not easy; it only happens due to the dedication and work of the individual. Ivan D'Souza is a leader who has consistently been the voice of the people. I have personally accompanied him to Vidhana Soudha, where he is recognized and respected by everyone. Leadership qualities are crucial in our society, and St Aloysius has produced many such leaders. Ivan D'Souza has made a name for himself not just in the state but across the country. Politics begins at home, and without it, nothing can be achieved. Every leader should have a desire to change society, and we are proud of our former student Ivan D'Souza."
MLC Ivan D'Souza, in his address, expressed his gratitude for the felicitation. He reflected on his journey into politics, and said, "Politics can seem glamorous from the outside, and I was drawn to it by the treatment, cars, security, and luxury that ministers enjoy. Everyone should dream big in life. Dr APJ Abdul Kalam once said that despite coming from a humble background and having to sell newspapers to pay his college fees, he became a great scientist and later the President of India. There should be no limit to your dreams."
Ivan D'Souza also recounted his early days as an MLC and the support he received from his family. He emphasized the importance of commitment and hard work, particularly in politics. "During my first tenure as MLC, I addressed the issues faced by beedi workers. Even former chief minister Veerappa Moily's mother was a beedi worker. This cottage industry is dwindling, leaving many women without jobs. We must think about their health and their children's education. The chief minister later appreciated my efforts, and a medical college was established in Gulbarga with 85 seats reserved for beedi workers of Karnataka. Efficient leaders are needed, and if the youth distance themselves from politics, there will be no one to lead in the future. Even IPS and IAS officers are becoming politicians because they understand that to bring about change, one must become an MP or MLA. Keep trying, as anything can happen at any time."
The event also saw the unveiling of St Aloysius Deemed to be University's official website and a poster for the new short movie ‘Zero Tolerance’, directed by Aloysius students.
Alwyn D'Sa, registrar of St Aloysius Deemed to be University, welcomed the gathering, while Anil Kumar, secretary of SACAA, delivered the vote of thanks. Dr Mona J Mendonca HOD of history meticulously compered the programme.
The event was attended by Dr Ronald Nazareth, registrar, St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Fr Vishwas Misquith SJ, finance officer, Shilpa D'Souza, institutional development officer, and others.
The programme was concluded with the national anthem.