Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (NJC)
Mangaluru, Nov 7: St Joseph Engineering College (SJEC), Mangaluru, in association with the SJEC Alumni Association and SJEC Foundation, inaugurated ‘Jnana Sethu 2025: Science for Peace’ on Friday, November 7 at the Kalam Auditorium. The event aimed to bridge the gap between theory and practice while fostering the message of peace through science.
The programme commenced with a college video presentation followed by a soulful invocation. The formal inauguration began with the traditional lighting of the lamp, signifying the illumination of knowledge and wisdom.
Rachana Crasta and Franco Menezes served as conveners of the event, while Vinoolthan Kaliveer, chairperson – alumni relations, coordinated the programme.
In his inaugural address, Dr Rio D’Souza, principal of SJEC, highlighted the relevance of the theme ‘Science for Peace’ and described Jnana Sethu as a platform connecting theoretical learning with practical experience. “Just as reading a book about swimming cannot teach one to swim without getting into the pool, learning too remains incomplete without hands-on practice,” he remarked. He emphasized the importance of applying knowledge in real-life situations and commended the organizing team for selecting a timely and meaningful theme.
Mathew Ninan, vice president of product development at Semnox Solutions Pvt Ltd, graced the event as the chief guest. In his inspiring address, he expressed his delight in being among ‘brilliant and intelligent minds’ and urged students to dream big and pursue their ambitions with determination. Quoting Dr A P J Abdul Kalam, he said, “You should have the courage to dream, because dreams transform thoughts, and thoughts lead to action.”
Defining innovation as ‘the art of turning dreams into reality’, Ninan encouraged students not just to seek employment but to create opportunities for others. Concluding his speech, he delivered a powerful message, “Dream big, start small, and act now.”
As part of Jnana Sethu 2025, students from various schools and colleges actively participated in the Science Model Exhibition, showcasing creative and innovative projects based on the theme Science for Peace. More than 30 schools and colleges from across the region took part, presenting models that demonstrated practical applications of scientific concepts for social good, environmental awareness, and sustainable development.
The event provided a vibrant platform for budding scientists to display their talent, exchange ideas, and interact with experts, fostering a spirit of curiosity and collaboration among young learners.
Fr Kenneth Rayner Crasta, assistant director of SJEC, and Dr Rio D’Souza, principal, were the guests of honour. Fr Wilfred Prakash D’Souza, director of SJEC, presided over the function and delivered the presidential address. In his remarks, he appreciated the efforts of the SJEC Alumni Association and the organizing committee for their dedication and teamwork in making the event a success.
The ceremony began with a warm welcome by Nelson Castelino, vice president - Alumni Association, and concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Rachana Crasta, convener of the event.
Following the inaugural, the campus came alive with a series of mega events that included Model Competition, Hydro Cannon, Load Up, Contraption and Quiz Whiz.
Events were conducted for high school and PU students, with participation from around 40 institutions and over 300 students. Every participating team in the model competition and contraption received a complimentary amount of Rs 500. A total cash prize of Rs 1,00,000 was distributed among winners of various events. Attractive prizes were awarded to winners of the model and quiz competitions, with an additional award for the Best Innovative Model. The Overall Champion and Runner-up teams were also honoured with trophies and cash prizes. A total cash prize of Rs 1,00,000 was distributed among winners of various events.
Results – Mega Events
Model Competition:
1st Place – St. Mary’s English Medium School, Laila
2nd Place - NITK English Medium School, Srinivasnagar
3rd Place - Carmel High School, Bantwal
Quiz Whiz:
1st Place - SMS English Medium School
2nd Place - Mount Carmel Central School
3rd Place - Excellent English Medium School
Overall Championship: Vivekananda English Medium School, Puttur
Overall Runner-up: Lourdes Central School, Mangaluru
Jnana Sethu 2025 beautifully reflected SJEC’s commitment to nurturing scientific curiosity, creativity, and social awareness while spreading the message that true progress and peace are achieved through education and innovation.