Puttur: St Philomena College, Puttur, managed by the Catholic Board of Education, Mangaluru, celebrated its official recognition as an Autonomous College under Mangalore University, following approval from the Government of Karnataka and the UGC. A grand inaugural ceremony was held in the college auditorium to mark this historic milestone.

Dignitaries Praise the Institution’s Achievements

The event was presided over by Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore Diocese, who stressed the importance of humility and human values in education. Most Rev. Dr Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bangalore, lit the ceremonial lamp and emphasized the role of education in critical thinking, innovation, and leadership.

Former MP of Dakshina Kannada, Shri Nalin Kumar Kateel, unveiled the new Autonomous College Emblem and the revised college website, lauding the institution for providing value-based education to rural youth.

New Facilities Inaugurated

Prof. P. L. Dharma, Vice-Chancellor of Mangalore University, inaugurated several new autonomous college facilities, including:

  • Board Room

  • Examination Section

  • Academic Section

  • Finance Section

  • Renovated Food Court

  • MCA Laboratory

    • He urged the institution to develop curricula aligned with industry needs, ensuring students emerge as skilled and socially responsible graduates.

    Commemorative Magazine Released

    Shri Ivan D’Souza, Karnataka Legislative Council Member, released Philo Genesis, a magazine celebrating the conferral of autonomy, and acknowledged the contributions of Christian educational institutions in empowering rural students.

    MP Captain Brijesh Chowta praised the college’s excellence in academics, sports, and culture, while MLA Shri Ashok Kumar Rai called for initiatives that generate employment opportunities for graduates.

    Recognition of Key Contributors

    The Catholic Board of Education Secretary, Very Rev. Dr Praveen Lio Lasrado, felicitated officials appointed to key autonomous positions, including:

    • Dr Norbert Mascarenhas (Registrar – Academics)

  • Dr Vinayachandra (Controller of Examinations)

  • Dr Edwin S. D’Souza (Finance Officer)

  • Vipin Nayak N.S. (Deputy Registrar – Academics)

  • Johnson David Siqueira & Abhishek Suvarna (Deputy Controllers of Examinations)

    • Former secretary V. Rev. Anthony Michael Shera, who initiated the autonomy process, expressed gratitude for the collective efforts in achieving this milestone.

    Guest Insights and Cultural Performances

    Guest of Honour Dr Kavitha K. R., Regional Joint Director of Collegiate Education, encouraged the college to nurture entrepreneurs and researchers. Ms Stella Varghese, Assistant Commissioner of Puttur, urged students to set goals and stay motivated.

    A documentary, “A Glimpse of the Legacy of the College,” showcased the institution’s rich heritage, academic excellence, and cultural achievements. Traditional performances, including Yakshagana dance and a Guard of Honor by NCC cadets, added grandeur to the celebrations.

    The day concluded with the “Autonomy Eve Gala,” featuring playback singer Jaskaran Singh, Samanvi Rai, Nadira Banu, Suprith Safalig, and Mallika Matti Jogi.