Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 15: St Joseph Engineering College (SJEC), Vamanjoor, inaugurated the first-year BE/BCA/BBA classes for the academic year 2026–27 and celebrated Engineers’ Day on Tuesday, September 15, at the Kalam Auditorium. Capt Brijesh Chowta, Member of Parliament, Dakshina Kannada, was the chief guest, while Fr Wilfred Prakash D’Souza, director, SJEC, presided over the programme.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by the first-year students of BE, BCA and BBA programmes. The programme commenced with an invocation by the college choir, followed by the welcome address by Dr Rio D’Souza, principal, SJEC. The new batch was formally inaugurated with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and was followed by a floral tribute to the portrait of Bharat Ratna Sir M Visvesvaraya as a mark of respect and remembrance on the occasion of Engineers’ Day.
The department flags were unveiled by the respective heads of departments along with student representatives, symbolising the beginning of the students’ academic journey at SJEC. The meritorious PU students were honoured in recognition of their outstanding academic achievements.
In his address, MP Capt Brijesh Chowta congratulated SJEC for maintaining a green and environmentally sustainable campus and appreciated the institution’s commitment to holistic education. Speaking on Engineers’ Day, he paid tribute to Bharat Ratna Sir M Visvesvaraya and highlighted his outstanding contribution to engineering and nation-building.
Encouraging the students to be fearless in life, the chief guest urged them to face challenges with confidence, develop a positive attitude and continuously learn and adapt. Referring to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, he highlighted the significant role of young engineers in contributing to India’s development through technology, innovation and responsible leadership. He also drew attention to the growing opportunities in emerging engineering fields and encouraged students to equip themselves with relevant skills to succeed in a rapidly changing world. He wished the students a successful and fulfilling four-year academic journey.
Dr Binu K G presented the institution’s Five-Year Strategic Plan 2026–2030, outlining SJEC’s strategic vision and key focus areas for the coming years, with emphasis on academic excellence, research, innovation, industry collaboration and sustainable institutional growth.
The chief guest was felicitated by Fr Wilfred Prakash D’Souza, director, SJEC, in appreciation of his presence and valuable address. In his presidential address, Fr Wilfred Prakash D’Souza highlighted the relationship between technology and human values. Referring to the college motto, ‘Service & Excellence’, he emphasised that while technology serves as a powerful tool, human values determine how it is used. He stressed the importance of developing the right attitude, discipline and mutual respect among students.
Sheetal Fernandes, assistant professor, Department of Chemistry & convenor of the programme, proposed the vote of thanks. Dr Prathima S, assistant professor, Department of Chemistry, compered the programme.
The programme was attended by Fr Kenneth R Crasta, assistant director, SJEC, Dr Rajesh K, first year faculty coordinator, deans, heads of departments, co-convenor Deepak Lobo, faculty members and students. The programme concluded with the rendition of the SJEC college anthem.