Pics: Vishal V P

Daijiworld Media Network- Mangaluru (VP)

Mangaluru, Mar 23: St Aloysius Gonzaga School held its Kindergarten Graduation Ceremony for the academic year 2023-24 on Saturday, March 23, at the St Aloysius Gonzaga School hall.

The chief guest of the ceremony, Dr Mario Joseph Bukelo, consultant paediatrician and neonatologist, expressed happiness and said, "As we celebrate today, joy and innocence is radiating from the children. We should ensure good health and wellbeing for their life, and it is important for parents to involve themselves into healthy lifestyle. It is easy to be overwhelmed by worries of children's future and this worry leads us to distress and because of this, we miss out beautiful moments of our little children. Anxiety about the future, which no one knows or sees, is often planted in our thoughts by the environment and ecosystem around us. Social media can exacerbate these anxieties and disturb innocent minds, making individuals feel useless and underachieved. It's important not to fall prey to this anxiety. In today's digital world, where digital media has become a part of our lives, it should be avoided as it can reduce children's learning ability and detract from physical activities. Family serves as the first teacher for children, thus creating a solid foundation for them is essential. Teachers play a crucial role in guiding children beyond the classroom. They are the architects shaping the future of these students. Teachers can assist in developing social skills and academics. Remember, your children are not possessions; they have their own thoughts. You may house their body but not their souls."

Fr Melwyn Joseph Pinto SJ, the rector of St Aloysius Institutes, presided over the programme. He remarked, “St Aloysius is now a university, and these students can continue their education here. These kids will graduate from our university in 10 years, and time will pass by in the blink of an eye. We may like many things, but we must continue to grow. Sometimes, sudden changes, like transitioning to the 1st standard, may evoke feelings of sadness, but it's essential to understand the process of growth. Just as an eagle teaches its young ones to fly by dropping them from the sky, it is necessary for children to learn and grow. Children should be allowed to be themselves and given the independence to grow while providing guidance. Encourage them to be accountable and share their stories with you. The more you listen, the more you will learn about them.”

Also present at the ceremony was Fr Melwyn Anil Lobo, the principal, who extended his congratulations to the graduating kindergarteners. He said, "I congratulate the graduating kindergarteners. I am sure you are happy and joyful today. Two years ago, the students entered this institution and began their schooling journey. After two months, they settled into the school, and their parents were delighted to see them attending school. Today, you have successfully completed two years of kindergarten. I'm very pleased with the progress the students have made, and the future looks promising for them. I'm sure that when you admitted your children, you were worried, but soon you realized that things were going smoothly. Graduation is a reminder that we have reached a milestone that deserves celebration. This milestone also signifies the beginning of another journey. As you embark on this new journey, you may feel anxious, but just as you have overcome challenges here, you will overcome them in the future. Parents should continue to spend time with their children and support them. With a proper educational foundation, they will lead successful lives in the future."

During the event, kindergarten students shared their experiences and were awarded graduation certificates. Avril Morello welcomed everyone, and Deepa Sequeira delivered the vote of thanks. Shalet Martais, a teacher at St Aloysius Gonzaga School, was honoured for her dedicated service.

Vice-principals Laurel D'Souza and Aparna Suresh, along with all teaching and non-teaching staff, were also in attendance, making the ceremony a memorable one.