Mangaluru: The Valedictory Ceremony for the batch of 2020 was organized at St Aloysius Pre-University College on 23rd January in the Loyola Hall. Dr Malini Hebbar, Associate Professor of English at St Agnes College (Autonomous), was the chief guest and Rev. Fr Dionysius Vaz S.J., Rector of St Aloysius Institutions presided over the programme.
The ceremony commenced with a soulful prayer service, followed by an oath-taking ceremony. A welcome dance and a farewell song were then performed by the first-year students.
Speaking on the occasion, Rev Fr Clifford Sequeira S J, reflected on the nature of change and the celebrations that follow every change. He exemplified the importance of a sound moral compass and the need to stay true to the Jesuit ideals.
He reminded the students that it is their duty to spread peace and harmony, especially in today’s time. He wished that their bonds of friendship survive and grow as the years pass and that they perform well in their forthcoming board exams.
Dr Malini Hebbar, the chief guest, applauded the efforts of the college in establishing itself as an institution of excellence. Citing various examples, Dr Hebbar urged the students to find the spark in their hearts and to rethink their commitment to the world. She advised the students to be conscious of the three C’s, as noted by Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, that of chance, choice and change so as to emerge as successful individuals. She motivated the students to make an impact on the world and to change it for the good. In closing, she wished the students the very best in their life.
Rev. Fr Dionysius Vaz S.J. in his address asked the students to reflect on the three gifts they have received from the college, that of, academic excellence, social conscience and character formation. He motivated the students to be change-makers and to be inspired by the work of Malala Yousafzai and Greta Thunberg.
He also stressed on the need to be interreligious and intercultural, to get rid of biases and prejudices and to embrace secularism. He wished the students success in life and conveyed his best wishes for their board exams. Azan Ibrahim and Nishel, second-year students of the college, shared their experiences and expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the institution.
A farewell song was then sung by the staff and the first-year students, followed by a video presentation of the time spent by the students in the college. Aleen Crasta, Deepti M were the conveners of the programme. Navyashree proposed the vote of thanks.
Present on the occasion were Rev. Fr Vinod Paul S.J., Finance officer, Charlotte Dsouza and Muralikrishna G. M., Vice-Principals, Ishara Ahmed, PTA Vice-President. Anitha Pinto compered the program.
