Media Release
Mangaluru, Jun 19: Mount Carmel Central School, Mangaluru celebrated a day of distinction, pride and promise as it held the Investiture Ceremony 2025 on Thursday, June 19, 2025 in the school auditorium. One of the most significant events in the academic calendar, the occasion was a celebration of leadership, responsibility, and youthful talent.
The ceremony began with a solemn procession, as the newly appointed student cabinet made a ceremonial entrance into the auditorium, escorted by the school’s NCC cadets. Accompanying them were the day’s dignitaries, chief guest Dr Savitha Dandekeri, principal Sr Melissa and vice principal Sr Therese Teena.
A soulful prayer service, followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the dignitaries along with head girl Karen Elaine Lobo and head boy Kevin Kushalappa set a reverent tone for the ceremony. As the school choir sang ‘Asathoma Sadgamaya’, blessings and wisdom were invoked for the student leaders. A graceful welcome dance by grade V students added a vibrant touch of colour and culture to the proceedings.
Head boy Kevin Kushalappa extended a warm welcome to the gathering and introduced the chief guest, Dr Savitha Dandekeri, an accomplished academician and innovator. Currently a professor of Prosthodontics at Yenepoya Dental College, she is also the recipient of the Women’s Researchers Award and a top contender at the Manipal MedTech Hackathon 2024. In a symbolic and heartfelt gesture, the head girl presented her with a flower sapling, signifying growth, responsibility and sustainability.
The highlight of the ceremony was the official investiture of the student cabinet for the academic year 2025–26. As the alma mater solemnly conferred the mantle leadership upon the head girl and head boy, the principal adorned them with sashes and badges, and administered the oath of office. This was followed by the collective oath by the head girl in which the cabinet ministers, house captains, the assistants and club leaders pledged to serve with integrity, dedication and commitment.
In her keynote address on “Leadership Insights-Navigating the Path of Success”, Dr Dandekeri reminded the students that “Leadership is not about position, but teamwork”. She emphasized the importance of values, innovation, and communication, encouraging the young leaders to carry their school leanings into the real world with pride and purpose.
Principal Sr Melissa congratulated the newly formed cabinet and inspired them to lead with silent strength and character. “Leadership is about making a difference, even when no one is watching. So, make your school years your foundation for everything you aspire to become”, she urged.
As the ceremonial proceedings concluded, the audience witnessed a moment of extraordinary pride and celebration, the release of a book titled “I Meant Always”, authored by Anissa Valdar, a student of Grade X E. A gifted writer, Anissa’s debut book was formally unveiled by the chief guest, principal, and vice principal, alongside the young author. The auditorium erupted in applause as the book, a symbol of youthful imagination, perseverance, and literary brilliance was introduced to the world. It was a moment that stood out as a testament to the school’s commitment to nurturing not just leaders, but also artists, dreamers, and change-makers. With a beaming smile and a humble heart, Anissa expressed her gratitude to her mentors, peers, and the school that helped shape her creative journey.
The ceremony concluded with a gracious vote of thanks by head girl Karen Elaine Lobo. The entire programme was compeered with elegance and poise by Ashney of Grade X E and Ananjan of Grade X D.
The investiture ceremony 2025 was not merely an event, it was a memorable chapter in the school’s legacy of fostering leadership, talent and vision. As the student leaders took their pledge and a young author launched her literary journey, Mount Carmel Central School stood proud, witnessing the blossoming of tomorrow’s torchbearers.