Media Release
Mangaluru, Dec 8: The Centre for Social Concern (CSC) at St Aloysius Pre-University College continues its year-round mission of nurturing students into empathetic individuals rooted in compassion and sensitivity towards the marginalised. Guided by the values of inclusivity and social justice, the Centre strives to create an environment where every individual is respected, supported, and empowered to thrive.
Amid these ongoing efforts, Balamela 2025 emerged as a significant annual highlight-a vibrant event that beautifully blended enjoyment with social awareness. Through this initiative, the CSC reaffirmed its commitment to fostering understanding, solidarity, and support for underprivileged communities.
A total of 121 students from various schools participated in Balamela 2025. The programme began with a prayer song that set a positive tone for the day, symbolising the spirit of compassion and unity that defines the CSC’s ethos.
Balamela 2025 was inaugurated in the presence of the principal, Fr Clifford Sequeira SJ; campus minister, Fr Anthony Derrick SJ; and the deans, Kiran Shetty and Inas Dias, and Sr Cynthia D’Souza, headmistress of St Mary’s Higher Primary School.
Students from Government Higher Primary School, Kadri; St Aloysius Higher Primary School, Urva; St Aloysius College Higher Primary School, Kodialbail; and St Mary’s Higher Primary School, Falnir participated with great enthusiasm.
The inaugural ceremony featured the traditional lighting of the lamp and a lively welcome dance by the CSC volunteers. Dignitaries, volunteers, and children came together to arrange coloured petals representing core values into a vibrant flower, symbolising unity and togetherness.
In an inspiring address, Fr Clifford Sequeira SJ narrated an anecdote of three frogs attempting to climb a tree, emphasising perseverance and the importance of tuning out negativity. He encouraged the children to remain focused on their goals and not be discouraged by external criticism.
CSC volunteers added colour and cheer to the day through dance performances, songs, and interactive games. Children from the visiting schools showcased their talents, and winners were rewarded with gifts, while every child received a token of appreciation. Gift hampers prepared by CSC volunteers were distributed, filling the atmosphere with excitement and joy.
By taking learning beyond the classroom, Balamela 2025 offered the children a meaningful and immersive experience. Their smiles and gratitude reflected the impact of the programme. Blending cultural vibrancy, educational enrichment, and community engagement, Balamela 2025 grew beyond a single event-it became a memorable experience that broadened perspectives, nurtured unity, and reinforced the values of empathy and social responsibility upheld by the Centre for Social Concern.