Media Release

Mangaluru, Nov 14: In a splendid tribute to its legacy, St Agnes School CBSE, hosted 'AGNEVA 2K24', a grand inter-school competition commemorating the school’s diamond jubilee. Held at St Sebastian Platinum Jubilee Hall, Bendur, the event saw a spirited gathering of 26 schools, with students showcasing their talents in competitions themed around nature, creativity, and intellectual prowess. The atmosphere was filled with excitement, camaraderie, and a strong message of environmental stewardship, reflecting the school’s commitment to shaping young minds.

The inaugural ceremony began with a grand march, as distinguished dignitaries graced the occasion. Leading this momentous event was the president, Sr Rose Agnes AC, assistant provincial superior of the Apostolic Carmel Congregation, Karnataka Province, alongside chief guest Fr Walter D’Souza, parish priest of St Sebastian Church, Bendur. The event also welcomed VJ Dixon, a renowned international host and influencer, as the guest of honour. Joining them were Sr Maria Gloria AC, representative of St Agnes institutions; Sr Maria Sarika AC, principal; PTA vice president, Liston D’Souza; Sr Meena Fernandes AC, vice principal; and the event’s convenor, Josephine Ignetto.

Each guest received a symbolic welcome, with Sr Rose Agnes AC presented with a flower-adorned light holder, representing warmth and strength. Fr Walter D’Souza was given a globe symbolizing compassion and unity, while VJ Dixon received a bird-shaped showpiece, inspiring all to rise to new heights with purpose and dedication.

In a symbolic tribute to the diamond jubilee, 60 dedicated teachers placed 60 vibrant saplings, each representing a flourishing year of the school’s journey. This marked the beginning of the celebration and embodied the school’s commitment to growth, resilience, and nurturing future generations.

The programme began with a captivating dance drama, featuring a mesmerizing thematic performance that became the highlight of the event. Through graceful movements and vivid storytelling, the dancers brought to life the five elements of nature, leaving the audience in awe and setting a vibrant tone for the entire celebration.

To inaugurate the event, dignitaries activated a screen unveiling a captivating video tribute to the wonders of nature, setting a reflective tone for the day. This was followed by a prayer dance, adding grace and reverence to the proceedings. With warmth and grace, principal Sr Maria Sarika AC welcomed the gathering, setting a heartfelt tone for the occasion. She extended her cordial greetings to everyone present and introduced the distinguished guests, adding a touch of elegance to the day’s festivities, while a Nukkad Natak presented the school's mission to intertwine nature's essence with their educational values.

Fr Walter D’Souza shared his reflections on humanity’s role in safeguarding the environment, emphasizing how the event’s inaugural theme aligned seamlessly with its purpose. He also praised the school for organizing such an impactful event. Sr Rose Agnes AC captivated the audience with an inspiring message on the spirit of competition, highlighting story of King Vikramaditya and his willpower and resilience. She shared the remarkable journey of Wilma Rudolph, an Olympic champion who overcame childhood polio, illustrating how resilience, hard work, and self-belief can empower people to overcome adversity and achieve greatness. Sr Rose Agnes expressed deep appreciation for the event’s creativity and commended the school for hosting such an inspiring celebration. Teacher Reena Monterio closed the ceremony with a heartfelt vote of thanks.

The event featured three main competitions: Earthy Escapades (variety competition), Nature's Nexus (face painting), and Eco Eloquence (switch side debate), all of which brought out the students' creativity, intellect, and passion for the environment. Participants showcased exceptional skills, competing with enthusiasm and representing their schools with pride.

The evening concluded with the valedictory ceremony, marked by the stirring sounds of the school band and a guard of honour. Distinguished guests included Dr Sr Maria Roopa AC, joint secretary of St Agnes Institutions as president, chief guest Sashidhar Darla, a successful entrepreneur, and guest of honour Prasad Adappa, founder and director of Accolades Academy, Mangalore. Principal Sr Maria Sarika AC, PTA vice president Liston D’Souza, and Kindergarten coordinator Sr Letitia AC, were also present.

In a symbolic welcome, Dr Sr Maria Roopa AC received a butterfly-adorned lamp, symbolizing grace and guidance; Sashidhar Darla was given a candle, representing his role as a beacon of service, and Prasad Adappa received a lighted candle, symbolizing his nurturing influence. A powerful opening chorus by the school choir and a graceful welcome dance marked the start of the closing ceremony.

Prasad Adappa also shared insights, praising the event and encouraging students to overcome challenges and prove their mettle. Sashidhar Darla delivered an inspiring speech, encouraging students to view failures as stepping stones to success and to embrace the richness of student life. Reflecting on their experiences, two participants shared insights into their journey through the competition, highlighting the meticulous planning, seamless coordination, and the event’s creativity and exuberance. They expressed heartfelt gratitude to the principal for organizing such a memorable and inspiring event.

In the much-anticipated prize distribution ceremony, Mount Carmel Central School won the overall championship, with Sharada Vidyalaya securing the Runners-Up trophy. Lady Hill English Medium School was awarded best MC in the junior category, while St Mary's High School won in the senior category.

The individual competition results were as follows:

Earthy Escapades - variety competition:
Junior category: 1st place - Mount Carmel Central School, 2nd -Vidyadayinee English Medium School, 3rd - Ladyhill English Medium School.
Senior category: 1st -Sharada Vidyalaya, 2nd - Lourdes Central School, 3rd - Carmel School, Pandeshwar.
Eco Eloquence - Switch side debate
Junior category: 1st - Vidyadayinee English Medium School, 2nd - Mount Carmel Central School, 3rd - Cambridge School.
Senior category: 1st - Lourdes Central School, 2nd - SDM School, 3rd - Amrita Vidyalaya.
Nature's Nexus - Face painting:
Junior category: 1st – Ladyhill English Primary School, 2nd –Heera International School and St Aloysius Higher Primary School , 3rd – Cambridge School.
Senior category: 1st – Lourdes Central School, 2nd – Manipal School, 3rd –St Aloysius High School.

The event concluded on a high note with Sr Reshma D'Souza AC delivering a heartfelt vote of thanks. AGNEVA 2K24 not only showcased incredible talent but also instilled a renewed commitment to environmental stewardship, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. As St Agnes School CBSE celebrates its diamond jubilee, the school’s spirit and dedication to shaping responsible, compassionate leaders were on full display, promising a brighter, greener future for generations to come.