Media Release
Bantwal, Nov 8: St Jacob's Aided Higher Primary School, Farla, celebrated its remarkable milestone of 100 years of dedicated service in the field of education with great grandeur, devotion and enthusiasm on Wednesday, November 4.
Established in 1926, the school marked its centenary under the theme, ‘A journey of one century – Building many generations’, with the motto, ‘Enthusiasm of all in education is encouragement to the talent of children’ and the message of ‘Peace and co-existence’. The grand celebration witnessed the presence of old students, parents, teachers, priests, donors, well-wishers and villagers.
The programme commenced with a prayer song, followed by a colourful welcome dance and welcome song presented by the school students.
Inauguration and presidential address
The centenary celebration was inaugurated by Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, bishop of the diocese of Mangalore, who also presided over the programme. In his presidential address, he appreciated the school's century-long contribution to education and emphasised that education is not merely about learning letters but also about nurturing human values and shaping responsible individuals.
Distinguished presence
The occasion was graced by Fr Praveen Leo Lasrado, CBE secretary, Mangaluru; Fr Michael Almeida, Provincial, Pallottine Congregation, Bengaluru; Fr Gilbert Mascarenhas, member of the Governing Body, Karnataka Regional Commission for Education; and Fr Mark Arun D'Souza, school correspondent.
Recognition of great benefactors
The school honoured its distinguished benefactors for their invaluable contributions towards its growth and development. Prabhakar and family of Prabhakar Bantwal Foundation, Bernard Saldanha, renowned businessman from Dubai and China, and Jacintha T D'Souza, retired Headmistress of St Jacob's H P School, Farla, were felicitated with shawls, bouquets and mementos as a token of gratitude and appreciation.
Chief guest and other dignitaries
Honourable B Ramanath Rai, former minister, Government of Karnataka, graced the occasion as the chief guest. He appreciated the school's remarkable achievement of completing 100 years and extended his best wishes for its continued success in shaping future generations.
Other dignitaries present included Malathi K, Block Education Officer, Bantwal; Steven Castellino, vice president, Church Pastoral Committee, Farla; Sunitha Baptist, secretary, Church Pastoral Committee, Farla; Keshava, president, Teachers-Parents Association; and Y F Kalawad (Babu F K), headmaster, Farla.
As part of the centenary celebration, senior teachers, retired teachers and distinguished old students were felicitated in recognition of their valuable contributions and association with the institution. The students added colour to the celebration through vibrant cultural performances, dances and songs, which captivated the audience.
The Headmaster proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to everyone who contributed to making the centenary celebration a grand success.
The centenary celebration was not merely a commemoration of 100 years but a tribute to the countless teachers, students, benefactors and well-wishers who contributed to the school's glorious journey. This historic occasion will remain etched in golden letters in the history of Farla village.