Mangaluru: In a spirited display of compassion and civic duty, St Aloysius Industrial Training Institute (ITI), Mangaluru, in association with Lions Club, Amtoor and KMC Hospital, successfully organised a blood donation camp on 26 May 2025 at the ITI premises. The initiative aimed to foster a sense of social responsibility among students and promote the lifesaving habit of voluntary blood donation.

Ceremony marks the start of the noble cause

The event began with a prayer service led by Electronics Mechanic students. The inaugural ceremony took place at 10 AM, marked by the lighting of the lamp by dignitaries present on the dais.

Mr Edwin Noronha, President of Lions Club Amtoor, served as the chief guest. He praised the students’ enthusiasm and encouraged them to make blood donation a regular part of their lives.

“Donating blood is a noble deed. I’ve been donating blood twice a year for seven years. Starting early in student life builds a socially responsible future,” he said.

Participation from KMC and institutional leadership

The event was presided over by Rev Fr John D’Souza SJ, Director of St Aloysius ITI. Other key attendees included:

  • Mr Roshan D’Souza, Principal

  • Mr Alwyn Menezes, Vice Principal

  • Mr Wilson N, Training Officer

  • Dr Dhruv, Medical Officer, KMC Hospital

  • Nurses and support staff from KMC

  • Mr Shreyas, Convenor of the programme

Dr Dhruv addressed the gathering by highlighting the medical value of blood donation:

“There is no alternative for blood. Donating blood helps save lives and boosts the health of the donor.”

Emphasising human connection through blood

Delivering the presidential address, Rev Fr John D’Souza SJ spoke on the emotional and biological connections established through the act of donation.

“Blood donation is not just a medical act but a humanitarian one. It cultivates responsibility and strengthens bonds among people, just like the bond between mother and child.”

Strong student turnout

The drive witnessed the participation of 63 donors, including students and staff, who volunteered to donate blood. Their involvement was praised as a symbol of empathy and readiness to serve society in times of need.

Mr Shreyas, convenor of the programme, offered the vote of thanks, and the event was efficiently compered by Ms Vanditha, Junior Training Officer.