Media Release
Mangaluru, Nov 15: Srinivas University Institute of Engineering and Technology, SUIT Mukka, Mangaluru, organized the state-level “INSPIRE 2026” – Technical, Cultural and Sports Fest, with the objective of providing a platform for Pre-University (PU) and Diploma students to showcase their talents, creativity, and abilities.
The programme was inaugurated by the chief guest, Prof Satish B Naik, deputy director of the Department of School Education (Pre-University), Udupi District, and the guest of honour, Dr Dayananda Pai (principal, SVS Pre-University College, Katapady, and president of the Udupi District Association of Aided and Unaided Pre-University College Principals (Regd).
Prof Er A Mitra S Rao, trustee member, board of governors of Srinivas University, presided over the programme.
The dignitaries present on the dais included guest of honour A Vijayalakshmi R Rao (trustee member, board of governors, Srinivas University), Dr K Satyanarayana Reddy (vice-chancellor of Srinivas University), Dr Ramakrishna N Hegde (dean, SUIET Mukka), and Prof Vishwas C Shetty (coordinator of INSPIRE 2026).
Dr Ramakrishna N Hegde delivered the welcome address and presented a brief overview of the 38 years of achievements and contributions of Srinivas University.
Prof Vishwas C Shetty provided a comprehensive introduction to INSPIRE 2026, highlighting the objectives of the event and the various competitions organized as part of the fest.
Prof K Shrinath Rao introduced the chief guest and the guests of honour to the gathering.
In his inaugural address, chief guest, Prof Satish B Naik, emphasized that every individual is born with unique talents and abilities, but what they need is the right platform and opportunity to showcase their potential. In this regard, he appreciated SUIET Mukka, for providing an excellent platform through Inspire 2026 for PU and diploma students to exhibit their talents and abilities.
Prof Satish B Naik encouraged students to actively participate in both academic and co-curricular activities and competitions, stating that a balanced involvement in these areas would help them achieve greater success in their careers and personal lives. He highlighted that such events play a significant role in boosting students' confidence and bringing out their hidden potential.
Prof Satish B Naik motivated the students never to lose hope or become disappointed by failures in life, but to remain optimistic, work hard with dedication, and strive towards their goals, assuring them that success would ultimately follow. Prof Satish B Naik also urged them to make the best use of every opportunity that comes their way, develop creativity, and contribute positively to society. On this occasion, he cited the example of one of his former students who had risen to the position of CEO of a reputed multinational company because of her achievement in both academics and co-curricular activities, communication skills, and strong leadership abilities. Through this example, Prof Satish B Naik inspired the students to recognize the importance of developing their overall personality and nurturing multiple skills to excel in their future endeavours.
Guest of honour, Dr Dayananda Pai, emphasized that education encompasses various dimensions, and obtaining a degree is just one among them. He stated that every stage of education has its own methods, learning processes, and significance. Quoting Swami Vivekananda, he highlighted that “Knowledge is the true essence of education and that the pursuit of knowledge should be a continuous process throughout life”.
Dr Dayananda Pai appreciated Inspire 2026 as an excellent platform for students to showcase their talents and abilities. He encouraged the students to develop a sporting spirit, work hard with determination, and remain dedicated to their goals, emphasizing that dedication is one of the most important qualities for achieving success in life.
Sharing his personal experience, Dr Dayananda Pai mentioned that his daughter, Dr Ananya, had graduated with a BDS degree from Srinivas Institute of Dental Sciences. Based on his experience, he expressed that Srinivas University provides a comfortable, supportive, and conducive environment for pursuing higher education, making it a good choice for students aspiring to build their academic and professional careers.
The guests of honour, trustee member, board of governor of Srinivas University, A Vijayalakshmi R Rao, and vice chancellor Dr K Satyanarayana Reddy, extended their best wishes to all the participants.
In her presidential remarks, trustee member, board of governors of Srinivas University, Prof Er A Mitra S Rao extended her heartfelt wishes to everyone on the occasion of Children's Day. Prof Mitra Rao remarked that every individual remains a child at heart, irrespective of age. Highlighting the increasing competition in the field of education, from kindergarten to higher education, Prof Mitra Rao emphasized that examinations should never be treated as a source of fear or trauma but rather as an opportunity to learn, grow, and assess one's knowledge and abilities.
Prof Mitra Rao encouraged students to overcome examination-related stress and approach exams with a positive mindset. Prof Mitra Rao stated that those who experience failure are often the real winners, as they learn from their mistakes, understand the reasons behind their setbacks, and develop the strength to overcome future challenges. Prof Mitra S Rao further pointed out that a two- or three-hour examination cannot truly measure a student's overall abilities, talents, or potential.
Emphasizing that winning and losing are natural parts of life, Prof Mitra Rao said that participation, learning, and gaining experience are more important than merely achieving victory. Prof Mitra Rao concluded by conveying her best wishes to all PU students for their upcoming examinations and encouraged them to face them with confidence, positivity, and determination.
Manjushree and Shreya rendered the invocation.
Dr Praveen Blessington proposed the vote of thanks.
Prof Rohan Fernandes compered the programme.
Dr Jayashree Bolar (Asst registrar of Srinivas University), Dr Praveen B M (director - Research, Srinivas University), Dr Naveen Kumar J R (co-coordinator of INSPIRE 2026), Dr Pavana Krishnamurthy (dean, Institute of Allied Health Sciences), Dr Juby Mary Chacko (dean, Institute of Nursing Sciences), heads of various departments of the engineering college, faculty members and staff, faculty representatives from various PU colleges across the state, Participants and students were present on the occasion.
The state-level technical fest witnessed enthusiastic participation from approximately 1,250 students representing more than 85 pre-university colleges from various districts of Karnataka. Students competed in a wide range of events organized under the Technical, Sports, and Cultural categories.
Chandana PU College, Sirsi, Uttara Kannada District, emerged as the overall champions, securing the prestigious overall championship trophy, while Shree Guru Vidyadhiraja the New English PU College, Bhatkal won the runners-up championship trophy. During the valedictory ceremony held in the evening, prizes and trophies were distributed to the winners of various competitions at INSPIRE 2026. Certificates of participation were also presented to all the students who took part in the fest, in recognition of their enthusiastic participation and involvement.