Media Release
Mangaluru, Jul 14: Vanamahotsava, also known as Forest Day, is a significant occasion that promotes the conservation and protection of Mother Earth. This year, the celebration was held under the inspiring theme ‘Ek Ped – Maa Ke Naam 2.0’. In alignment with this vision, St Agnes CBSE School, Mangaluru, organised a special programme on July 12, aimed at fostering environmental awareness among students and the teaching community.
The event was honoured by the presence of the chief guest, Fr Osmond Roshan D’Souza, assistant priest at St Sebastian Church, Bendur, Mangaluru. A passionate environmentalist and academic in joint forest management, Fr D’Souza holds an MPhil and PhD, and has published over ten national and international research papers in the field of natural resource management. A native of Shivamogga, his childhood surrounded by nature has deeply inspired his dedication to ecological conservation. He was warmly welcomed by Sr Lavi Shanthi the coordinator in a symbolic gesture that reflected the day’s theme.
The programme commenced with a prayer service led by the students, offering thanks to god for the gift of nature. This was followed by a formal welcome to the chief guest and the audience, setting the tone for the day's events.
To mark the occasion, the students of grade XC presented a thoughtful series of performances such as a dance dramatisation illustrating environmental destruction, a powerful Nukkad Natak on saving mother earth, a concluding dance celebrating nature’s rejuvenation symbolizing hope, renewal, and harmony with the environment.
Mercita Tina D’Souza delivered an insightful presentation on the significance of Vanamahotsava, tracing its origins back to 1950 and emphasizing its continued relevance today. A sapling plantation ceremony by the dignitaries served as a symbolic reminder of the importance of nurturing and protecting plant life.
The highlight of the programme was an inspiring educational session by Fr Osmond titled ‘Nurturing Nature: Students’ Role in Cultivating a Garden.’ He emphasised the crucial role students play in environmental stewardship and urged each of them to plant a sapling in honour of Mother Earth.
At this juncture the students who had brought accolades to school in sports and Olympiad competition were honoured. In athletics, Aditi KP of grade 6A emerged as a double gold medallist in both the 60m sprint and long jump under 12 category held at the Karnataka State Kids Athletics Meet in Bengaluru.
Vivan Lionel Nazareth, also from grade 6A, secured third place in the Singles category at the Global Sports Intra-Badminton Tournament held at the Global Sports Arena, Vamanjoor.
Jehan Isir of Grade 10A demonstrated excellent reflexes and coordination to earn first place in the under-17 doubles category and Sweedal Sanvi D’Souza secured runner up in singles and doubles Undern 11 and 13 category and winner in doubles under 11 categories at the Monsoon Badminton Tournament – 2K25, organised by Alva’s Education Foundation.
The Silver Olympiad foundation organized olympiad exam 2024-2025 and our students proved her mettle among the best by securing the gold, silver and bronze category.
The gold medalists are Janicia Rachel Mascarenhas, Nidhi Nirvani, Chinmayi R, Aadya M, Tanisha P Brijesh, Drithi N Uchil, Reishan Maria Fernandes, Megan Viegas, Cleona Sanchia Saldanha, Jenson Neval Pinto, Joella Adline D’Cruz, Aadhya D, Sharanya Uchil, Anvi SK, Ahana Brijesh,
The silver medalists are Chinmayi R, Drithi N Uchil, Reishan Maria Fernandes, Megan Viegas, Cleona Sanchia, Aaliya Nazareth, Leanne Sarah Rego, Dhanvin Y M, Nirvedh Shetty, Tanvi Shivu.
The broze medalists are Leanne Sarah Rego, Srivathsa Pai, Dacia Siona D’Souza, Anushka J, Rhiya Rajesh.
The event was efficiently compered by Jewel Lourd Crasta and Nichole D’Souza. Jianne Ruth Lasrado extended a heartfelt welcome to the gathering, while Viona D’Souza delivered a sincere vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the programme.
The celebration concluded with bringing to a close with a meaningful and impactful day dedicated to celebrating and protecting the natural world.