Mangaluru: The SAHODAYA Association of St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) organised ‘EYECONIC 2026 – Empowered Beyond Limits’ at Fr L. F. Rasquinha Hall, bringing together students, faculty and guests for an inspiring celebration of resilience and inclusion.
The programme was presided over by Dr Ronald Nazareth, Registrar of St Aloysius (Deemed to be University). Dr Charles V. Furtado, Founder President of SAHODAYA and Director of the Administrative Block, Ms Bhoomika A., Staff Coordinator, and Namratha Shenoy, Student Coordinator, were present on the dais. Other staff coordinators included Dr Roshan Fredrick D’Souza, Fr Roshan and Ms Chaithra M. A., along with student coordinators Shravan Acharya, Shruthi K. M. and Anusha Pinto.
A platform for empowered voices
EYECONIC is a unique platform where accomplished individuals with disabilities share their life journeys with the student community, encouraging empathy, awareness and inclusive thinking. This year’s event featured two remarkable achievers: Ms Asha Shivaraj, Upper Division Clerk (UDC) at ESIC (Central Government), and Ms Sabitha Monis, Student Welfare Officer at Alva’s Education Foundation.
Asha Shivaraj: Turning adversity into achievement
Hailing from Udri village in Sorab taluk of Shivamogga district, Asha Shivaraj was born with partial blindness due to Retinitis Pigmentosa. Despite her visual impairment, she transformed challenges into opportunities through dedication to education, arts and sports.
An alumna of Shri Sharada Devi Andhara Vikas Kendra, she excelled in dance and athletics, securing silver and bronze medals at the National Level Blind Sports Meet held in Delhi in 2004. She completed her PUC at St Aloysius College, Mangaluru, graduated with First Class, and later pursued higher studies in English Literature.
Currently serving as a UDC in ESIC, she is also an accomplished singer and an enthusiastic cook. She has participated in MasterChef India auditions and various culinary competitions. Asha’s journey stands as a powerful testimony to resilience, self-reliance and the immense potential of the visually challenged community.
Sabitha Monis: Strength beyond limitations
Sabitha Monis, born without arms, has emerged as a symbol of determination and courage. Writing with her legs from an early age, she stood first in class until Class VII, secured 81 per cent in SSLC and 70 per cent in PUC and Degree examinations.
Holding an MSW, MA in Sociology and a Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Management, she has served for over 15 years at Alva’s Education Foundation as a Student Welfare Officer. She has received numerous state and national-level recognitions from organisations such as Lions Club International, Rotary Clubs, JCI and Talent Research Foundations for her work in social service and women empowerment.
Expressing gratitude during her address, she acknowledged the unwavering support of her parents, siblings, teachers and classmates who became pillars of strength in her journey.
Reflections from leadership
In his presidential remarks, Dr Ronald Nazareth highlighted the transformative impact of SAHODAYA in shaping socially conscious students. He noted that such movements cultivate empathy and encourage young minds to appreciate diversity and inclusivity.
Dr Charles V. Furtado spoke about the formation of SAHODAYA and its 26-year journey. He emphasised the need to make education not only mind-oriented but heart-oriented. Referencing Helen Keller, he reminded students that limitations do not define destiny and urged them to value their abilities and opportunities.
During the programme, Asha Shivaraj and Sabitha Monis were felicitated in recognition of their inspiring contributions and achievements.
Samuel Peters, Assistant Professor of English, compered the event. Ms Bhoomika A. welcomed the gathering, and Namratha Shenoy proposed the vote of thanks.
About SAHODAYA
Founded in 2000 with the theme ‘Blossoming Together’, SAHODAYA is an outreach initiative of St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru. What began with 30 students has grown into a vibrant movement involving hundreds of youth and alumni.
The association works to empower persons with disabilities, foster inclusion and nurture empathy among students. Through sustained initiatives, SAHODAYA supports marginalised individuals, promoting self-reliance, dignity and social responsibility. Over the years, it has made a meaningful impact on both volunteers and the communities it serves.
EYECONIC 2026 once again reaffirmed the University’s commitment to inclusive education and the celebration of human potential beyond limitations.
