Media Release

Mangaluru, Aug 17: St Aloysius College Higher Primary School celebrated the 80th Independence Day of India with great patriotic fervour and enthusiasm on August 15, at the school ground.

The dignitaries were escorted to the venue by the headmistress, Jositta Noronha, led by the melodious school band. The chief guest for the occasion was Sergeant Prajwal Feston, accompanied by his wife, Diana Feston, parents of Jordan Feston of class V. Sergeant Prajwal Feston is a proud Indian Air Force veteran who rendered 20 years of distinguished service to the nation.

During his service, he was posted at various locations, from Gujarat to the Andaman Islands and contributed to Operation Sindoor along the border. He is presently serving as the chief security officer at Big Bags International. Sergeant Prajwal Feston stands as a true example of dedication, discipline, courage and excellence, both in his military service and in his present civilian role. His presence added great significance and patriotic spirit to the Independence Day celebration.

The programme began with a mark of respect to the state anthem, followed by the prayer song Vande Mataram, setting a reverent and patriotic tone for the celebration. The school pupil leader, Jordan Thoras, warmly welcomed the gathering and introduced the chief guest.

The headmistress, Jositta Noronha, escorted the dignitaries to the flagpole. The chief guest, sergeant Prajwal Feston, hoisted the national flag along with the PTA vice-president Lavina Veigas, assistant headmaster Liya D’Souza, SPL Jordan Thoras and ASPL Vinston Lobo. The national anthem was sung with due respect and salute, followed by the flag song.

The significance of Independence Day was presented by Shama and Ciana D’Souza, reminding everyone of the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters and the responsibilities of citizens in building a strong nation. Following the significance of the occasion, a beautiful patriotic song was sung by the students, filling the atmosphere with a sense of pride and love for our nation.

In his inspiring address, sergeant Prajwal Feston spoke to the students about the importance of punctuality, discipline and organization. He emphasized the value of time and encouraged the students to develop the courage to accept their mistakes, learn from them and make the necessary corrections. His words inspired the young minds to become responsible, disciplined and confident citizens.

A beautiful and vibrant dance performance was presented by the students, adding colour, energy and patriotic spirit to the Independence Day celebration. Their graceful movements and enthusiastic presentation captivated the audience and made the occasion even more memorable.

A special highlight of the programme was the inauguration of the school magazine - AL-TELLITE by Sgt Prajwal Feston. The headmistress presented copies of the magazine to the dignitaries, marking another significant moment in the celebration.

The programme was conducted by the students of grade VII and compered by Sam Chris Serrao, Aliya Mulla and Jenilia Vaz. The vote of thanks was proposed by Saramma Salva, expressing gratitude to the chief guest, dignitaries, teachers, parents and students for making the celebration a memorable one. The institution also extends its heartiest congratulations and sincere thanks to the police department for their invaluable co-operation and guidance in ensuring the smooth flow of the march and the entire event.

The much-awaited moment of the day, ‘The Aloysian Parade,’ then began. The parade was led by the dignitaries, followed by the school band, Cubs and Bulbuls, Scouts and Guides, students in colourful fancy dress, students of classes I to VII, staff members, PTA representatives and parents. The parade commenced from the school, proceeded towards PVS Circle, Bunts Hostel Circle and returned to the school.

The Aloysian parade not only ignited the patriotic fervour in the participants, but the general public also took great pride, cheering the little Aloysians as the patriotic rhythm reverberated through the city. The enthusiasm, remarkable discipline, and patriotic spirit displayed by the students throughout the procession were the absolute highlights of the parade. After the grand parade, breakfast was served to all the students and parents.

The 80th Independence Day celebration at St Aloysius College Higher Primary School was truly a memorable and joyous occasion. The programme brought together students, teachers, parents and the school community in a spirit of patriotism, unity and pride. The celebration not only honoured the freedom of our nation but also inspired the students to uphold the values of discipline, responsibility, courage and service to the country.