Mangaluru: Reinforcing its commitment to holistic, value-based education rooted in the Jesuit tradition, St Aloysius Pre-University College, Mangaluru, inaugurated its 37 Clubs and Associations for the academic year 2026-27. The inauguration marked the beginning of a vibrant year of co-curricular activities aimed at nurturing students’ talents, leadership qualities, creativity, and social responsibility beyond the classroom.
The clubs and associations provide students with opportunities to actively engage in academics and intellectual pursuits, language and literature, science and technology, business and entrepreneurship, performing and fine arts, media and communication, environmental awareness, wellness and lifestyle, leadership and social service, and cultural enrichment. The initiative seeks to enable every student to discover and develop their unique abilities while growing into competent, compassionate, and socially responsible individuals.
Programme begins with prayer and cultural performances
The inaugural programme commenced with a prayer song presented by the Shastriya Sangeeta Club, invoking God’s blessings on the activities planned for the academic year. This was followed by a graceful welcome dance by the Eastern Dance Club, the welcome address, and a floral welcome to the dignitaries.
The dignitaries, along with the coordinators of the Clubs and Associations, lit the ceremonial lamp, symbolising the pursuit of knowledge, wisdom, and enlightenment. The Clubs and Associations were then formally inaugurated, followed by a vibrant procession of student presidents carrying placards representing their respective clubs and associations.
Principal encourages students to believe in their potential
Addressing the gathering, Principal Rev. Fr. Clifford Sequeira SJ encouraged students to make the best use of the opportunities offered through the Clubs and Associations and to believe in their own potential.
Narrating the story of two boys, he explained that every individual is guided by two inner voices—the voice of fear and self-doubt and the voice of courage and confidence. He urged students to consciously choose the latter and approach every opportunity with a positive mindset.
Drawing inspiration from the story of an elephant that remained tied by chains it had long outgrown, Fr. Clifford illustrated how limiting beliefs often prevent people from recognising their true potential. He encouraged students to break free from these invisible barriers and discover the gifts and talents bestowed upon them.
Emphasising the importance of holistic development, he said the Clubs and Associations provide valuable platforms to build confidence, develop skills, cultivate leadership, and forge meaningful friendships beyond the classroom. He encouraged every student to become an active member of at least one club or association and make productive use of the opportunities provided by the institution.
Fr. Clifford congratulated the coordinators, teachers, and student leaders for their efforts and wished all the Clubs and Associations a successful and enriching academic year.
Students showcase creativity through cultural performances
The cultural segment of the programme showcased the creativity and artistic talents of students. The Western Music Association enthralled the audience with a lively band performance, followed by an energetic presentation by the Bollywood Dance Club.
A thought-provoking skit jointly presented by the Dramatics Club, Tulu Koota, and Kannada Sangha highlighted the significance of the Clubs and Associations in nurturing students’ talents, promoting teamwork, and encouraging active participation in campus life.
The programme concluded with a vibrant performance by the Western Dance Club, adding colour and enthusiasm to the celebrations.
Among those present were Dean of Commerce and Arts Mr. Inas Dias, Dean of Science Ms. Kiran Shetty, and the coordinators of the Clubs and Associations—Mr. Deyan Crasta, Ms. Yashaswini, Ms. Srilatha Shenoy, and Ms. Sweedal Pais.
The programme was compered by Vival Serrao, a II PU student, while Arleen Sequeira of II PU proposed the vote of thanks. The inaugural ceremony concluded with the rendition of the College Anthem, marking the beginning of another year of vibrant student engagement and holistic learning at St Aloysius PU College.
