Media Release
Mangaluru, May 31: A seminar on value education, initiated as part of the Central Board of Secondary Education’s professional development initiative, was held at St Agnes School CBSE, in the School Block II Hall on May 29. Designed specifically for educators, the session aimed to deepen understanding of values-based instruction and enhance the pedagogical approaches to instilling ethical and moral sensibilities among students.
Reflecting the school’s valued custom of symbolic welcomes, the day’s distinguished resource person, Sr Rosemarie, was received with a candle, graciously presented by principal Sr Maria Sarika. The candle, representing the triumph of light over darkness and wisdom over ignorance, mirrored sister's own life of devoted service—radiating clarity, compassion, and moral purpose.
Following this meaningful gesture, the session opened with a soulful prayer invoking divine guidance and grace, setting a reverent and reflective tone for the proceedings. The audience was then formally welcomed, and Sr Rosemarie was introduced with reverence and warmth by Laveena. Further affirming the school’s commitment to sustainability and nurturing growth, Sr Rosemarie was also welcomed with a potted plant by vice principal Sr Meena Fernandes AC.
The seminar began under the guidance of Sr Rosemarie a seasoned educator with over three decades of experience. Drawing from her extensive work in value education, including her contributions to the ‘Joyful Living’ series and retreat modules for both students and teachers, she offered profound insights into integrating ethical reasoning and emotional intelligence into classroom interactions.
In her session, Sr Rosemarie elaborated on the origin of the book Joyful Living, which is founded on six fundamental values thoughtfully aligned with the developmental stages of children from Grades 1 to 10. She highlighted the pedagogical framework, lesson structure, and specific teaching directives. Citing compelling narratives and biographies of luminaries such as Dr A P J Abdul Kalam and Mother Teresa, she exhorted teachers to incorporate such exemplary lives into their pedagogy, thereby enriching the learning experience with inspiration and moral insight. A practical dimension to the session was added through a demonstration lesson by Keerthi, which showcased a structured and engaging approach to teaching values.
The session concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Keerthi, who acknowledged the depth and inspiration that Sr Rosemarie had brought to the workshop. Aligned with CBSE’s vision, her inspiring and practical presentation equipped educators with actionable strategies to nurture values in schools, making the seminar a meaningful experience. It also served as a reminder that the heart of education lies not only in imparting knowledge, but in nurturing the soul.