Pics: Nayana J C
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (NJC)
Mangaluru, Dec 20: Expert Pre-University College, Kodialbail, celebrated its 40th Expert Day in a grand and meaningful manner at Kootakkala Auditorium, Shree Bhagavathi Temple, on Saturday, December 20.
The landmark occasion brought together students, parents, teachers, non-teaching staff, alumni and well-wishers, marking four decades of excellence in education.
The programme commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp, symbolising knowledge and enlightenment. The event was presided over by Narendra L Nayak, Chairman, and Dr Ushaprabha N Nayak, vice-chairperson. Vasanth Kamath, CEO of Smallcase and trustee director at Zerodha Fund House, graced the occasion as the chief guest.
As part of the celebrations, the institution conferred its prestigious Star Awards 2025, including scholastic and non-scholastic awards, recognising academic excellence as well as achievements in leadership, sports and cultural activities. Several meritorious students were also felicitated for their outstanding accomplishments.
In her keynote address, Dr Ushaprabha N Nayak highlighted that Expert, founded in 1986, was built not by laying a foundation stone, but on strong ideas, core values and the objective of securing students’ futures. She emphasised that the institution has consistently focused on nurturing discipline, dedication and trust, which have shaped countless success stories over the years.
Delivering the highlight address of the evening, chief guest Vasanth Kamath, an alumnus of Expert, delivered an inspiring and candid talk. He shared that, like many students, he had little clarity about his future after Class 10, and that his ambitions frequently changed during his early teenage years. Recalling his decision to join Expert’s integrated programme, he said it required trust, as it was a newly introduced initiative at the time.
He spoke about the intense academic schedule, long study hours and initial failures in mock examinations, which served as significant reality checks. Mr Kamath stressed that those two years taught him the true meaning of hard work, discipline and consistency—values that continue to guide him in his professional life. Encouraging students, he said it is never too late to learn or improve, and that focused effort, even in the final stages, can lead to success. Emphasising time investment over shortcuts, he added that sincere dedication always yields long-term rewards.
Addressing the gathering, Narendra L Nayak greeted the dignitaries and congratulated the rank holders, awardees, guests, media representatives, teachers, non-teaching staff, faculty members and students. He said that completing 40 years since the institution’s inception on December 29, 1986, was a proud milestone, reflecting a journey marked by dedication and growth.
Congratulating the scholastic and non-scholastic awardees and Super Star winners, he noted that such recognitions are milestones, with many more opportunities awaiting students in life. He added that disciplined individuals earn the greatest respect and achieve focused success. He also highlighted the achievement of twin brothers among the rank holders, calling it a proud moment for the institution. The felicitation, he said, aimed to inspire students to excel and truly live life, not merely exist.
The formal programme was followed by a vibrant cultural extravaganza, featuring dance, music and creative performances by students, showcasing their talent and artistic expression. The celebrations concluded with dinner, marking a memorable milestone in Expert’s 40-year journey of shaping futures.