Mangaluru: St Joseph Engineering College (SJEC), Vamanjoor, commemorated its 25th Foundation Day with a solemn and inspiring programme held at Prerana Hall, Academic Block III, on Wednesday afternoon. The silver jubilee celebration reaffirmed the institution’s enduring commitment to academic excellence, research, innovation, and service to society.

The highlight of the occasion was the Foundation Day Oration delivered by Dr P. Nagabhushan, Chancellor – E-Box AI Degree Programmes, Director and Advisor – Amphiventures, Lifetime Professor and former Director of IIIT-Allahabad, and former Vice-Chancellor of Vignan’s Foundation for Science, Technology and Research (2022–2026). His address, titled “Education Through Technology: A Quest for Quality,” resonated deeply with faculty members, researchers, and students.

Education beyond examinations

In his keynote address, Dr Nagabhushan emphasised the importance of cultivating a strong research culture and promoting value-based technological education. He highlighted the need for institutions to go beyond routine teaching methods and create an environment that fosters inquiry, innovation, and critical thinking.

Expressing concern over the growing trend of parental pressure on children to pursue engineering without assessing individual aptitude and interest, he urged families and educators to prioritise passion and purpose over convention. According to him, meaningful education should align with a learner’s curiosity and long-term vision rather than societal expectations alone.

Dr Nagabhushan observed that many students today focus primarily on clearing examinations instead of truly understanding concepts. He encouraged students to question, explore, and seek knowledge actively rather than memorising textbook answers. Quoting, “Education is for understanding today to create tomorrow,” he stressed that learners must become visionaries who shape the future, not merely managers who maintain existing systems.

He further called upon faculty members to guide students in interdisciplinary exploration and to contribute meaningfully to nation-building through quality education and impactful research.

Celebrating 25 years of growth

The programme commenced with a video presentation tracing SJEC’s remarkable journey over the past 25 years. The presentation showcased the institution’s milestones in academics, research, infrastructure development, student achievements, and community outreach initiatives.

Dr Rio D’Souza, Principal of SJEC, delivered the welcome address, reflecting on the college’s steady growth and its pursuit of excellence since its inception. He underscored the institution’s emphasis on academic rigour, industry collaboration, innovation-driven learning, and social responsibility.

A significant moment of the celebration was the release of the college compendium, documenting SJEC’s academic progress, research accomplishments, outreach initiatives, and silver jubilee milestones. The dignitaries formally unveiled the publication and appreciated the efforts invested in compiling the institution’s 25-year legacy.

The chief guest was felicitated by the management as a mark of gratitude for his insightful address and valuable presence.

Recognising research excellence

As part of the Foundation Day celebrations, SJEC honoured faculty members for their outstanding contributions to research and innovation, reinforcing the institution’s focus on scholarly excellence.

The following awards were presented:

  • Research/Innovation Award: Dr Vincent Crasta, Professor, Department of Physics
  • Research Impact Award: Dr Raju K, Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering
  • Research Publication Award: Dr Ravikantha Prabhu, Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering
  • Early Career Research Award: Dr Sharun Mendonca, Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering
  • Research/Innovation Mentorship Award: Dr Binu K G, Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering

The awardees were congratulated by Rev. Fr. Wilfred P D’Souza, Director, and Dr Rio D’Souza, Principal, who highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary research initiatives, innovation ecosystems, and sustained academic engagement to enhance institutional excellence.

A renewed commitment to quality education

The programme was moderated by Dr Shakila B, while Dr Saumya Y M served as the Convenor and coordinated the event. The vote of thanks was delivered at the conclusion of the function.

Faculty members, students, researchers, alumni, and invited guests attended the celebration, which reflected SJEC’s sustained pursuit of quality education and research-driven growth over the past quarter century.

As SJEC marks 25 years of its journey, the Foundation Day celebration stood as both a moment of reflection and a reaffirmation of its mission. The institution continues to strengthen its academic framework, encourage innovation-led learning, and prepare graduates who contribute meaningfully to society and national development.