Mangaluru:The Department of Master of Social Work (MSW) at St Aloysius University commemorated a significant academic milestone by celebrating its Silver Jubilee (2001–2026), marking 25 years of sustained excellence in social work education, training, and community engagement. The grand jubilee celebration, held on January 10, 2026, brought together past and present members of the department to reflect on its rich legacy and future vision.

The Silver Jubilee event stood as a tribute to the department’s consistent contribution to the field of social work, underlining its role in shaping socially responsible professionals who have gone on to serve communities at local, national, and international levels.

Leadership presence adds dignity to the celebration

The programme was graced by Praveen Martis, Vice Chancellor of St Aloysius University, and Prashanth Madtha, former Principal, whose presence lent dignity and inspiration to the occasion. Their participation reaffirmed the University’s strong institutional support for the MSW department and its mission of service-oriented education.

The celebration witnessed the participation of former faculty members, current teaching staff, students, alumni, and representatives from non-governmental organisations. The diverse gathering reflected the strong professional networks and enduring bonds nurtured by the department over the past two and a half decades.

A journey rooted in academic rigour and social commitment

Since its inception in 2001, the MSW department has steadily evolved into a centre of excellence in social work education. Its academic journey has been characterised by a strong emphasis on rigorous fieldwork training, which enables students to bridge theory and practice. Structured field placements, both in urban and rural settings, have exposed students to grassroots realities and complex social challenges.

The department has also facilitated professional internships at national and international levels, offering students valuable exposure to diverse social contexts, organisational frameworks, and development models. These opportunities have enhanced students’ professional competence and global outlook, preparing them for multidisciplinary roles in the social sector.

Research, outreach, and knowledge sharing

Over the years, the MSW department has actively contributed to academic discourse and social development through research initiatives, national-level seminars, workshops, and conferences. Faculty members and students have engaged in research addressing critical social issues such as poverty, health, mental well-being, gender justice, child rights, community development, and social inclusion.

In addition to academic research, the department has undertaken field action projects and extensive community outreach programmes, responding to real-life social needs through awareness campaigns, capacity-building initiatives, counselling services, and development interventions. These activities have reinforced the department’s commitment to social justice and community empowerment.

Alumni achievements reflect lasting impact

One of the highlights of the Silver Jubilee celebration was the presence of several well-accomplished alumni who have made notable contributions across diverse sectors, including social work practice, public administration, research, healthcare, corporate social responsibility, and development organisations. Their participation symbolised the department’s enduring impact and the successful transmission of professional values and ethical commitment across generations.

Alumni interactions during the event provided current students with inspiration and practical insights into evolving career pathways in the social sector. The occasion also served as a platform for alumni to reconnect with their alma mater and acknowledge the formative role played by the department in their professional journeys.

Collective effort behind a milestone celebration

The event was coordinated by Dr Loveena Lobo, Staff Coordinator, with active support from Dr Shwetha Rasquinha, Head of the Department; Ms Neeradha Sheen, Student Coordinator; and Mr Arun Mascarenhas, Alumni Coordinator and Vice President at Wells Fargo, Bengaluru. Faculty members and students worked collaboratively to ensure the smooth organisation of the programme.

The enthusiastic participation and seamless coordination reflected the collective pride and shared sense of ownership associated with the department’s 25-year journey.

Reaffirming the mission for the future

The Silver Jubilee celebration stood as a proud testament to the MSW department’s legacy of academic integrity, service orientation, and social responsibility. As the department looks ahead, it reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing future social work professionals equipped with competence, compassion, and ethical clarity to address emerging social challenges.

With its strong foundation and forward-looking vision, the MSW department continues to play a vital role in advancing social work education in coastal Karnataka and beyond.

Conclusion

As it celebrates 25 years of impactful service and scholarship, the MSW Department of St Aloysius University stands strengthened by its past and inspired for the future. The Silver Jubilee was not merely a commemoration of years gone by, but a renewed pledge to continue building socially conscious professionals dedicated to the welfare and dignity of communities.