Media Release
Mangaluru, Nov 29: St Aloysius Pre-University College celebrated its 146th Annual Day on the college grounds under the theme ‘One Planet, One Purpose – Peace’. The arrival of the dignitaries, escorted by the NCC cadets, lent the event a sense of ceremony and pride. The college choir followed with an evocative rendering of ‘Be a Light’, which infused the gathering with a sense of hope and reverence, marking a graceful start to the evening’s programme.
The chief guest for the occasion, Michael D’Souza, distinguished entrepreneur and philanthropist, expressed sincere gratitude for being invited to the 146th Annual Day celebration. In his address, he urged students to take pride not in arrogance but in discipline, honesty, hard work, and personal growth. He emphasized that every meaningful journey begins with self-belief, and that self-respect naturally extends to one’s college, teachers, and family. D’Souza advised students to choose their friends wisely, noting the significant influence peers have on personal development.
He highlighted the importance of cultivating habits such as diligent work, respect for others, and accountability, stating that success favours those who are prepared rather than merely talented. Acknowledging the pivotal role of educators, he remarked that while every child may not excel in every subject, each one possesses the potential to succeed when guided with empathy and understanding. He added that a strong institution is built not only on academic excellence but also on compassionate teachers who shape both minds and hearts. D’Souza concluded by commending the staff and management for upholding high standards of discipline and fostering holistic growth within the institution.
In his presidential address, Fr Melwin Pinto SJ, rector of St Aloysius Institutions, commended the principal, Fr Clifford Sequeira SJ, for his leadership and for the meticulous planning that went into organising the Annual Day celebration. Referring to the prayer song sung by the choir, ‘Be a Light,’ he urged students not to remain in the shadows but to embrace and become bearers of the light. He highlighted the exemplary compassion of the chief guest, Michael D’Souza, noting that his commitment to making a difference in the world serves as an inspiration. Fr Melwin expressed pride in the students of the college, acknowledging their meaningful contributions across diverse fields such as sports, art, and dance. He also extended his gratitude to the parents for their presence and support despite their demanding schedules.
A prominent feature of the day was the prize distribution ceremony, during which the vice principal of Commerce and Arts, Vilma Fernandes, and Anita M Pinto from the department of commerce, enumerated students who excelled in academics and sports.
Scholarships and memorial awards were then presented to students who had demonstrated exceptional merit and represented the institution at national platforms. The prize distribution ceremony celebrated the unwavering dedication and exemplary accomplishments of the students who embody the spirit of Magis-an expression of aspiration and inspiration.
Fr Clifford Sequeira SJ, principal of the institution, noted in his message that true education extends far beyond classroom instruction; it shapes character, widens perspectives, and nurtures young people into responsible and compassionate members of society.
He emphasized that success holds deeper meaning when it is used in the service of others. Congratulating the students on their outstanding achievements in both academics and co-curricular activities, he wished them God’s choicest blessings and a bright, fulfilling future. Fr Clifford also expressed gratitude to everyone involved in organising the Annual Day and reaffirmed the institution’s continued commitment to social responsibility, environmental stewardship, and communal harmony. He extended heartfelt thanks to the Almighty, parents, faculty, and well-wishers for their unwavering support throughout the academic year. The programme also featured a visually engaging video presentation showcasing the year’s major activities.
The formal proceedings were followed by an engaging cultural programme that showcased diverse performances, including a welcome dance; a thematic ‘Karavali Vaibhava’ dance symbolizing Tulunadu, alive with rich folk traditions and timeless rhythms; ‘Saviors of the Sea,’ a dance conveying the message of protecting the oceans and seas from pollution; ‘Planet B,’ a dance-drama reminding us that there is no other place like Earth that we can call home; and a powerful Kannada play, ‘Halagali Veeraru,’ celebrating courage and dignity-reminding us that every voice matters and every story deserves to be heard. The cultural programme concluded with a finale dance performance, ‘The Ultimate Peace.’
The celebration also provided a platform for the promotion of an upcoming Tulu movie, ‘Kajja’. Fr Melwin Pinto SJ, rector, congratulated Mohan Raj from the department of biology, along with SAPUC alumni and students for their valuable contribution into the making of the film.
Fr Balaraju R SJ, secretary & treasurer, Mangalore Jesuit Educational Society, was the guest of honour. Present for the occasion were Fr Anthony Derrick SJ, the campus minister; the deans, Kiran Shetty and Inas Dias; and the Students' Council, including president Abhiram Muralidhar, vice president Rahul V Shetty, secretary Gordon Wilfred, joint secretary Vaishnavi Hegde, cultural secretaries Shreshta S Shetty and Tanvi Raghuram, and sports secretaries Anyu A Shetty and G Sagar.
The vice principal of science, Muralikrishna G M, introduced the chief guest to the gathering. Abhiram Muralidhar delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all who contributed to making the event a grand success. Abigail D’Silva, Shayden Pinto, Rahul Shetty, and Angel Noronha compered the programme with exemplary poise and professionalism.
The event was meticulously coordinated by Vandana K C, Mohan Raj, Smitha Pereira, John Wesley, Aaron Fernandes, and Bakyalakshmi, who ensured the seamless execution of the day’s festivities. The evening concluded on a triumphant note, leaving parents and students with lasting memories of the college’s 146th Annual Day celebration.