Media Release
Mangaluru, Oct 17: St Aloysius Pre-University College observed "Harmony Week" under the theme “Together with respect, together in harmony”, aiming to foster unity, mutual respect, and interfaith understanding among students and staff.
The week-long celebration featured a vibrant mix of cultural, artistic, and reflective activities, emphasizing the importance of peaceful coexistence in a diverse society.
The celebrations commenced with an inaugural ceremony at the Pretorium. The event began with a soulful musical performance on religious harmony by the Shastri Sangeeta Club.
The principal addressed the gathering, highlighting how respect and understanding can cultivate lasting peace. A human chain formed by staff, students, and the student council symbolised solidarity, followed by a lively cultural dance performance. Class guides reinforced the theme in their classrooms, sharing messages on harmony with students.
The AICUF association also conducted a carry bag making competition in the bio lab, promoting teamwork and sustainable practices.
A panel discussion on interfaith harmony was held in Loyola Hall, moderated by Mark Pereira of the Department of Languages. Esteemed panelists - Sri Swami Vivekachaithanyananda of Ramakrishna Tapovan, Sharafuddin B S, principal of Barakah International School, and Fr Praveen Joy Saldanha from St Joseph’s Seminary - shared profound insights on spirituality, open-mindedness, and love for one’s neighbour.
In the afternoon, students showcased their creativity in competitions such as art of harmony, pots of peace, and planet painting, illustrating their vision of peace through art.
Morning assemblies throughout the week highlighted the message of harmony and mutual respect. During value education classes, a thought-provoking video encouraged reflection on coexistence and compassion. A poetry competition gave students the opportunity to express their reflections on respect and understanding through original compositions.
A painting relay competition further encouraged students to collaboratively convey unity and peace through art.
Posters displayed across the Science and Gonzaga blocks highlighted the rich diversity of faiths and cultures, featuring quotes, symbols, and scriptures from various religions. These visual displays prompted reflection and discussion, emphasizing that compassion and respect are universal human values.
Through its Centre for Inter-Religious Harmony, the College continually strives to promote understanding, respect, and dialogue among people of different faiths. Initiatives like Harmony Week reflect the institution’s enduring commitment to nurturing inclusivity and fostering peace in a pluralistic society.
The Harmony Week at St Aloysius PU College successfully created an environment of inclusivity, respect, and togetherness on campus. Through music, art, poetry, discussions, and shared experiences, students and staff embraced the essence of the theme: ‘Together with Respect, Together in Harmony.’