Media Release

Davanagere, Aug 14: The India-Slovakia Collaboration programme, held on August 13 at the Fr Stan Swamy Auditorium, was a grand event that showcased the cultural and educational ties between India and Slovakia. The programme, organized with great enthusiasm and meticulous planning, provided a platform for students and dignitaries to come together and celebrate this unique partnership.

The event was gracefully hosted by Suhana, who kept the audience engaged and ensured the smooth flow of the programme. A warm traditional welcome was extended by the students, setting the tone for the cultural significance of the event.

Jyoti and her team led an interreligious prayer, promoting the values of unity and harmony, symbolizing the coming together of different faiths in a spirit of collaboration. Jhanavi captivated the audience with a beautiful Bharatanatyam dance performance, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of India.

Another highlight of the cultural performances was the Malkhamb, skilfully performed by Karthik and his team, showcasing the strength, agility, and discipline integral to this traditional Indian sport.

Qudsiya, a student of Class VI, delivered the welcome speech, extending hearty greetings to all the dignitaries, teachers, and students present. The ceremonial lighting of the lamp was performed by the esteemed dignitaries, symbolizing the beginning of the event. This included Fr Eric Mathias SJ director of St Aloysius International School and PU College, Pushpalatha, principal of St Aloysius PU College, and Fr Vinod AJ, SJ, principal of St Aloysius International School.

The felicitation ceremony was conducted by Fr John Baptist SJ, who invited Fr Eric Mathias SJ, Pushpalatha, and Fr Vinod to honour the guests, recognizing the contributions of key individuals in fostering the India-Slovakia collaboration. This was followed by the welcome and the felicitation of Sr Shanti David FSI, the newly added faculty to St Aloysius International School as well as the vice-principal of the school.

The chief guest, Fr Mario SJ, from Slovakia, delivered an inspiring speech, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration in education and the potential it holds for the future.

Special guests from Slovakia, including Fr Martin, Nicoletta, Peter, Andrea, Lucia, and Eva, were also present, adding significance to the event. Fr Eric Mathias SJ, in his presidential address, highlighted the significance of cultural exchanges and collaborations in nurturing global citizenship among students. Allen Prince, a student of Class VII, expressed his gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the event, thanking the dignitaries, participants, and organizers for their efforts. The programme concluded with the singing of the National Anthem, filling the auditorium with a sense of pride and unity.

The team from Slovakia also visited interreligious places of worship, including the Minor Basilica, Durgah, and Temple, promoting unity and understanding among different faiths.

The India-Slovakia collaboration programme was a resounding success, bringing together students, educators, and dignitaries in a celebration of cultural exchange and mutual respect. The event not only highlighted the strong ties between the two countries but also provided an opportunity for students to learn and grow in a global context.