Media Release

Mangaluru, Aug 15: Celebrating the 71st year of Independence, on Tuesday, August 15, Lourdes Central School, Bejai, here hosted the programme at the school grounds.

Francisca, and the staff of LCS, hosted the programme.

Chief guest Serg Shrikanth Shetty Bala, Retired Indian Air Force Officer, was given a rousing guard of honour from the school band, Scouts, Guides, Cubs and Bulbuls. He was escorted by principal Fr Robert D’Souza, vice-principal Belita Mascarenhas, Manager Fr Wilson Vitus D’Souza, and vice-president, of Bejai Parish Parishad, Stany Vas.

Riya of class IV A invited the principal to speak few motivational words.

The principal introduced the chief guest with a floral bouquet and briefed about his achievements and contributions to the nation and society. He also welcomed the August gathering.

The programme began with a prayer song which was led by the school choir. The highlight of the programme was reminiscing the unsung freedom heroes by students of class IV A, guided by Shanthi.

Melisha D’Sa and Adithya Ballal of Class X highlighted the significance of the day in Hindi and English respectively.
 
The chief guest unfurled the national flag with other dignitaries.

The National Anthem was sung, followed by an oath-taking ceremony.

The School choir regaled the audience with a patriotic song. Fr Wilson, in his speech, stressed on unity in diversity, tolerance and the importance of the day.
        
Serg Shrikanth Shetty Bala, in his Keynote address, spoke about the patriotism that every citizen should uphold towards our country and highlighted the heroic deeds of soldiers. He also spoke about inculcating values among students, to be selfless in their service and contribute to the nation by utilizing resources.
 
The chief guest distributed prizes to the students who won in the competitions conducted in accord with the Independence Day celebration.

He was honoured with a memento and a shawl by Fr Robert.

Shama Bhat, the deputy head girl, proposed the vote of thanks.
 
The programme concluded with the distribution of sweets to all students.