Media Release
Mangaluru, Feb 6: An atmosphere of pride and emotion enveloped Manipal School, as the institution hosted its valedictory ceremony to bid farewell to the 12th batch of grade 10 and the 2nd batch of grade 12 students. The occasion honoured 98 graduating students and served as a meaningful milestone, bringing together parents, teachers, students, and distinguished guests to celebrate years of learning, growth, and achievement.
The ceremony commenced with the arrival of the chief guest, commander Dr Anil Rana, director, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal, along with Dr Dilip G Naik, pro vice-chancellor, MAHE Mangaluru Campus; principal Srilatha Alva; former principal Anuradha Shivaram, vice principal Shilpa Moger; headmistress Sapna Shetty; PTA president Sachin K J; and PTA vice-president Sunitha Furtado. The dignitaries were welcomed with a guard of honour presented by the school captain and student cabinet. Shortly thereafter, the graduating students made a dignified entrance amid thunderous applause, setting a celebratory tone for the evening.
The programme opened with a solemn invocation, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, signifying enlightenment and the pursuit of wisdom. Student leader Saanvi then extended a warm welcome to the gathering, eloquently capturing the spirit of perseverance and success that defined the graduating classes.
A significant moment of the evening was the homage paid to Dr TMA Pai, the visionary founder of the Manipal Group. An inspirational video highlighted his enduring legacy and invaluable contribution to the field of education. The school also unveiled its annual theme, ‘Sanskar: Rooted in Values, ready for the future’, underscoring the importance of strong values, discipline, and continuous self-development.
The addresses delivered by the eminent speakers added depth and inspiration to the ceremony. The principal, in her valedictory address, emphasized that a school is not merely a place for academic learning but a space where character is shaped and values are nurtured. She highlighted Manipal School’s commitment to discipline, respect, and good conduct, and encouraged the outgoing students to uphold these values as they move forward in life. She wished them success and reminded them to be proud ambassadors of the institution, while the chief guest, commander Dr Anil Rana, motivated the graduates to face life with courage, resilience, and integrity. The evening gained further warmth as parents shared heartfelt reflections, expressing gratitude for the school’s role in nurturing and guiding their children.
In recognition of their academic journey, the graduating students were presented with mementos, symbolising the memories, friendships, and lessons that would forever remain a part of their lives. As a symbolic gesture, teachers passed lit lamps to students, representing the transmission of wisdom and guidance towards a purposeful future.
The ceremony marked a poignant transition for both students and teachers alike. For educators, it was a proud moment to see their proteges ready to step confidently into the next phase of life. Enhancing the emotional resonance of the evening, the school choir delivered a stirring rendition of ‘Go Light Your World’, echoing the message of enlightenment and hope.
A moment of solemn commitment followed as the students took an oath, led by school sports captain Saanvi Shetty, reaffirming their dedication to the principles and values instilled during their years at the institution.
The farewell became deeply emotional as Ritwik Rastogi and Surabhi from grade 10, along with Fathima Zuhal and Prisha Kumari from grade 12, shared touching recollections of their school experiences and expressed heartfelt appreciation. A moving address by Tr Seema further highlighted the enduring bond between mentors and learners.
Adding to the sentiment, the school choir performed ‘Over all the years, we have been together’, perfectly capturing the essence of parting and remembrance. The audience was then taken down memory lane through a specially curated video montage titled ‘The School Remembers: Retrospect 2025–26’, showcasing treasured moments from the students’ school life.
As the event drew to a graceful close, headmistress Sapna Shetty proposed the vote of thanks, acknowledging the collective efforts of the management, staff, students, and parents in making the ceremony a memorable success.
The evening concluded on a warm and celebratory note, with students, parents, and teachers coming together over high-tea—bringing closure to a significant chapter while opening the doors to new beginnings for the 98 graduates of the class of 2025–26.