Media Release
Mangaluru, Oct 25: The Centre for Social Concern (CSC) at St Aloysius Pre-University College, is one of the institution’s flagship extension wings dedicated to nurturing socially conscious and empathetic young citizens.
Rooted in the Jesuit tradition of forming ‘men and women for others,’ the CSC encourages students to look beyond themselves and respond meaningfully to the needs of society. It provides opportunities for students to engage with diverse communities through outreach visits, awareness programmes, and social action projects. By fostering compassion, inclusivity, and responsibility, the centre strives to help students understand real-world issues and become proactive agents of positive change, guided by the Aloysian ideals of faith, service, and justice.
In keeping with this vision, the CSC organised a week-long outreach initiative titled “Yathra - A journey of hearts”. The purpose of the programme was to help students experience compassion, social awareness, and self-reflection through meaningful encounters and acts of service. Each day of Yathra opened a window into a different facet of humanity, inviting students to connect, share, and grow in the joy of giving.
The week began with an inaugural ceremony at Pretorium, setting the tone for a journey dedicated to reflection and service. Fr Clifford Sequeira SJ, principal of St Aloysius Pre-University College, inaugurated the Yatra in the presence of the vice principals, deans, and students. Following the inauguration, the CSC members visited Riya Foundation, Kulshekar, a home dedicated to the care and empowerment of individuals with down syndrome. The visit was filled with moments of laughter and joy through songs, dances, and games. Students shared chocolates and heartwarming interactions, leaving with a renewed understanding of compassion in action.
The second day featured a special initiative titled ‘Feeding the Poor’ in honour of World Humanitarian Day. In preparation, students conducted surveys across nearby streets to identify areas in greatest need. On the day of the outreach, members brought home-cooked meals and personally distributed them to the poor and needy across Mangaluru. This act of kindness served as a gentle reminder that true service often lies in the simplest gestures - those that bring dignity, warmth, and hope to others.
The third day was marked by a heartfelt visit to St Anne’s Old Age Home, where students spent time with the elderly residents through prayers, music, and games. The lively interactions, stories shared, and smiles exchanged made the experience deeply enriching, emphasizing the values of love, companionship, and gratitude -ideals at the very heart of YATHRA.
On the fourth day, students visited Snehadeep, a centre for young girls living with HIV/AIDS. Though the girls were initially shy, they soon opened up, joining in games, dances, and songs. The students were treated to a delightful display of talent, including soulful singing and a graceful Bharatanatyam performance.
The celebration concluded with prayers, cake, and heartfelt exchanges-a moment that deeply moved all present and strengthened their commitment to empathy and care.
The fifth day was dedicated to introspection and creative expression. Students recorded their reflections on the experiences of the week and submitted them to the CSC staff coordinators. Selected reflections will be featured in the forthcoming college annual magazine, ensuring that the spirit of YATHRA continues to inspire others.
The sixth day witnessed the CSC, in collaboration with the centre for environmental concern and the centre for inter-religious harmony, hosting an insightful session by renowned social activist Vidya Dinkar at Alangana. The event commenced with a prayer song, followed by a video montage showcasing highlights from the first five days of YATHRA. Students then shared their personal reflections. This was followed by a talk by Vidya Dinkar, “Beyond what meets the eye,” which emphasised empathy, social responsibility, and the importance of consistency in service.
She enriched the session with inspiring anecdotes and a short film on the Yamuna River floods, leaving the students motivated and reflective. The programme concluded with the felicitation of the World Grandparents’ Day Reel Competition winners and a group photograph, marking yet another memorable milestone in the YATHRA journey.
On the final day, students visited an animal shelter, where they were warmly welcomed by the dedicated volunteers. They spent time interacting with dogs, cats, birds, and other animals, gaining insight into the shelter’s mission and witnessing the pure, unconditional affection in the animals’ eyes.
The experience fostered a deep sense of compassion and empathy for all living beings and inspired many students to consider volunteering, bringing a heartwarming and meaningful conclusion to an unforgettable week of service and reflection.
Yathra - A journey of hearts was far more than a series of outreach activities; it was a transformative experience that deepened students’ understanding of empathy, service, and gratitude. Each day revealed new lessons and moments of connection, reinforcing the belief that humanity is best expressed through kindness.
St Aloysius Pre-University College, Mangaluru, takes pride in nurturing such values in its students, encouraging them to become compassionate and socially responsible citizens. Though the week has concluded, the spirit of Yathra endures alive in every act of compassion and in every heart it has touched.