Media Release
Mangaluru, Feb 8: St Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru, recently heralded the commencement of ‘Agno Carnival 2025’, a vibrant and heart-warming fundraising initiative dedicated to providing shelter to those in need. This event epitomizes the commitment of the college in terms of social responsibility, showcasing a remarkable tradition where faculty and students unite to contribute meaningfully to the construction of a home for a deserving member of the Agnesian family up keeping with the Christmas spirit of sharing.
This has been an annual feature of the college for the last 25 years under the banner ‘NAVIDAD’. The carnival not only serves as a platform for fundraising but also fosters a spirit of community, compassion, and collective action among the contributors.
The guest of honour, Munita Veigas Rai, an alumna, playback singer, and western vocal coach, was present at the event. In her address she spoke on the need to aid the less fortunate and said, “This is a wonderful event and I am happy to be a part of this fundraising initiative and contributing to my alma mater.”
The event unfolded in an atmosphere brimming with enthusiasm and camaraderie with the esteemed presence of the principal, Sr Dr M Venissa AC, alongside the vice principal, Sr Dr Roopa Rodrigues AC, the PG coordinator, Sr Dr M Vinora AC, the joint secretary, Sr Dr Maria Roopa AC and the administrator, Sr Carmel Rita AC were among the other dignitaries present along with the staff body and the students.
In her inspiring address to the audience, principal Sr Dr Venissa AC emphasized the transformative power of collective effort and commitment towards the noble cause of the Agno Carnival. She shared insights from her research, highlighting the potential for every individual in the country to own a home, contingent upon the judicious utilization of resources. This profound message resonated deeply with the students and staff, encouraging them to contribute at least a ‘brick’ towards the realization of a home for those less fortunate. Her call to action was not merely a plea for financial support but an invitation to engage in a meaningful endeavour that uplifts the community and instils a sense of purpose among the attendees.
The beneficiary of Agno Carnival 2025 was Medalya Gonsalves, III BCA student; the principal handed over the proceeds of charity show to the beneficiary and her parent Jyothi M Gonsalves.
The carnival's activities were meticulously designed to engage the audience while promoting the overarching goal of providing shelter. Various stalls displaying delicious food, and engaging games were set up, creating an atmosphere of festivity and joy. Each purchase made during the event directly contributed to the fundraising efforts, reinforcing the idea that every small contribution counts. The event showcased a dance battle, student performances, a stage programme, a live band concert, and music from DJ Arwin and DJ Nikhil. The collaboration between students and faculty was palpable, as they worked together to ensure the success of the carnival, exemplifying the college's ethos of unity and shared responsibility.
The carnival commenced with a melodious prayer song, setting a tone of reverence and purpose. Dr Geetha Pinto, associate professor of the post graduate department of chemistry, welcomed the gathering and introduced the guest of honour. This was followed by an exhilarating stage performance, which captivated the audience and culminated in an innovative and eco-friendly presentation of the carnival’s name, embodying the spirit of creativity and environmental consciousness. Prival D’Souza, I BBA and Steve Richard, I BCA compered the show. The student president Privy D’Souza proposed the vote of thanks.
In conclusion, Agno Carnival 2025 stands as a testament to the unwavering spirit of generosity and compassion that defines St Agnes College. This event not only raised funds for a worthy cause but also fostered a sense of community and collective purpose among students and faculty alike. As the carnival concluded, the blessings sought by principal Sr Dr Venissa AC for the noble cause of Navidad echoed in the hearts of all present, igniting a commitment to continue this legacy of support and solidarity. The Agno Carnival is not merely an event; it is a movement that inspires everyone to contribute to building a brighter future, one brick at a time.