St. Agnes College Hosts Global Conference on Education & Sustainability

St. Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru, proudly conducted the International Conference on “Fostering Sustainability: The Convergence of Education and Ecological Responsibility.” This significant event took place at the esteemed Mother Mary Aloysia Centenary Auditorium on Tuesday, 25 February 2025.

Prof. Lionel Aranha, a distinguished Chartered Accountant and Lawyer, who was the Guest of Honour, graced this event with his presence. The keynote speaker was Prof Dr Ismail Hakki Mirici, Director of Haceteppe University Graduate School of Educational Sciences in Ankara, Turkey. Dr. Semra Mirici, Professor at Gazi University, Faculty of Education, Ankara, Turkey, the resource persons – Prof Dennis Quillala, Assistant Prof, Dept of Political Science, President for academic Affairs, University of Philippines Diliman, Dr Maher Spurgeon, Consultant, Director of South Asia, United Board for Christian Higher Education in Asia, New York were present for the conference. All the dignitaries lit the ceremonial light and formally inaugurated the conference.

Prof. Lionel Aranha, in his message, mentioned that St Agnes College focuses on empowering women and expressed happiness in its thriving. He emphasized the need to gainfully be employed and provide sustainable solutions to bring about a change in the world. He mentioned a beautiful quote stating, “Live it, leave it, sustain it,” which meant actively working towards a sustainable lifestyle that preserves the environment for future generations.

Prof Dr Ismail Mirici in his message mentioned moving towards a sustainable living that can preserve and nurture the environment for the generations to come.

Sr. Dr. M. Venissa AC, in her message, mentioned that knowledge and nature have to go hand in hand to have a liveable world in the future. Education is the foundation of transformation which will enable us to learn and we must serve to foster sustainability to live in harmony and promote ecological responsibility along with collaboration with various aspects. She emphasized that we need to be the key to a unified future and enlighten ourselves as we develop.

Among the dignitaries were Sr Dr Maria Roopa AC Joint Secretary of St Agnes Institution, Sr. Dr M. Venissa AC, the Principal and the President of the inaugural; Sr. Dr Roopa Rodrigues AC, the Vice Principal; Sr. M. Carmelrita AC, the Administrator; Sr. Dr M. Vinora AC, the PG Coordinator; Dr Sabina Lobo, the IQAC Coordinator; delegates from various institutions, special invitees, well-wishers, program convenor Mrs Gayathri BK, Assistant professor of political science and organizing secretary Ms Florine, Assistant Professor of the Department of Economics. The others present were Deans, Heads of Departments, faculty members, students, participants, and paper presenters for the conference. The valedictory Chief Guest was Dr Smitha Hegde, Director of Research, Centre for Advanced Learning, Mangalore.

Here are some visuals from the conference – Click to expand and view slide show

The formal program commenced with a splendid Guard of Honour, followed by a beautiful prayer song, and thematic dance adding grace and elegance to this event.  Mrs Gayathri BK welcomed the gathering and introduced the Guest of honour and the keynote speaker. The Master of Ceremony, Ms. Raveena Mascarenhas, Assistant Professor of English, ensured the smooth flow of the program while Dr Sabina D’Souza proposed the vote of thanks.

This conference inspired us to take meaningful steps toward sustainability and creating a lasting impact in the realm of responsible education with the enthusiasm and participation of all present making this truly a special event.