Mangaluru: St Aloysius PU College, Mangaluru, organised the valedictory ceremony for the 2024–26 batch, marking an important academic milestone as students bid farewell to campus life and prepared to step into new academic and professional journeys. The solemn yet celebratory programme reflected the institution’s Jesuit ethos of holistic formation, gratitude, and service.
The ceremony was graced by Jeevan Saldanha, Chief Executive Officer of Spectrum Industries, who served as the Chief Guest and inspired students with reflections from his own life and professional journey.
A beginning rooted in prayer and symbolism
The programme commenced with a soulful prayer song by the college choir, invoking divine blessings on the graduating students. This was followed by an interreligious prayer service, underscoring the college’s commitment to spiritual inclusiveness and value-based education.
An elegant welcome dance presented by the I PUC students added vibrancy to the occasion. One of the most symbolic moments of the ceremony was the candle-lighting ritual, where members of the Student Council received candles from the Rector and the Principal. The act represented the light of knowledge, values, and learning acquired during their two-year journey, and the responsibility to carry forward the flame of hope, peace, and service into society.
Students also made brief symbolic presentations highlighting their experiences in sports, student associations, clubs, extension activities, social service, environmental awareness, and interreligious harmony—showcasing the institution’s emphasis on all-round development.
Principal’s message: Discover the gold within
Welcoming the gathering, Rev. Fr Clifford Sequeira, Principal of St Aloysius PU College, formally introduced the Chief Guest and addressed the students. He reminded them that education extends far beyond textbooks, stressing that the values imbibed during their time at the institution would serve as a foundation for confidence and resilience in life.
Drawing a powerful analogy, he referred to the famous statue of Lord Buddha in Bangkok, which appeared ordinary on the outside but was discovered to be made of pure gold within. Similarly, he said, individuals may appear ordinary, but it is their inner potential that defines their true worth. He expressed gratitude to parents and teachers for their unwavering support and wished the students success as they ventured into the future.
Chief Guest shares journey of innovation and perseverance
In his address, Jeevan Saldanha fondly reminisced about his days as an alumnus of St Aloysius and acknowledged the institution’s role in shaping his values and entrepreneurial mindset. He shared an inspiring anecdote about developing India’s first optical sorting machine in 1993, an idea sparked by a rocket crash caused by cotton waste in the coolant system.
Emphasising perseverance, he spoke candidly about the challenges and scepticism he faced, noting that dedication and belief eventually led to success. Quoting, “Fear of failure is for those who ride horses—so ride that horse,” he urged students to believe in their abilities, work diligently, contribute positively to society, and pursue their dreams with courage.
Rector’s call for gratitude and lifelong learning
Presiding over the ceremony, Rev. Fr Melwin Pinto, Rector of St Aloysius Institutions, emphasised the importance of cultivating gratitude in life. He encouraged students to accept guidance and correction from teachers in the right spirit, recognising them as expressions of care and concern.
He reminded the students that every experience—pleasant or challenging—offers valuable lessons. Maintaining a positive attitude, learning from experiences, and remaining thankful, he said, are key to achieving lasting success.
Student voices and cultural moments
The programme featured heartfelt reflections by students Anon Rego, Gordon Sartho, and Jane Moras, who shared memories and experiences from their two years at SAPUC. The award distribution segment recognised student achievements across academics, co-curricular activities, and service.
Musical and dance performances, along with a farewell video, added emotional depth to the event, evoking nostalgia and pride among students, parents, and staff.
The ceremony was attended by Campus Minister Rev. Fr Antony Derrick, Vice Principals Mr Muralikrishna G. M. and Ms Vilma Fernandes, Deans Ms Kiran Shetty and Mr Inas Dias, staff convenor Ms Edrina Sequeira, and faculty members. The vote of thanks was proposed by Ms Shiney Clifford.
A farewell with hope and purpose
The valedictory ceremony concluded on a reflective and hopeful note, reaffirming St Aloysius PU College’s mission of forming young men and women grounded in values, competence, and social responsibility, ready to face life with confidence and compassion.
