Udupi: Teachers are not merely instructors of textbooks but also shapers of students into well-rounded human beings, said the Most Venerable Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo, Archbishop of the Udupi Diocese. He was speaking at the Teachers’ Day celebration and felicitation programme organised by the Catholic Educational Society, Udupi Diocese, at the Amulya Auditorium, Kakkunje Anugraha Palana Kendra, near Santekate, on Saturday.
Teachers’ role beyond academics
Dr. Lobo emphasised that teachers serve as role models of commitment, honesty, and integrity, shaping the future leaders, scientists, and responsible citizens of the country. He called upon Catholic educational institutions to be centres of intellectual and moral development, spreading not only knowledge but also values and faith.
“Today’s teachers face challenges posed by media, technology, artificial intelligence, social pressure, and declining values. Educational institutions should be beacons of knowledge and values, creating not just high scorers but individuals with devotion, love, and gentleness,” he said.
Chief guest highlights contribution of Christian institutions
Lokesh C, Deputy Director of the Education Department, Udupi, who attended as the chief guest, praised Christian educational institutions for maintaining high-quality education in the district. He added that the dedication and loyalty of teachers have led to good results and urged institutions to continue this standard of excellence.
Keynote and felicitation
Dr. Dayanand Naik, retired professor of political science, Mangalore University, delivered the keynote address.
During the programme, retired teaching and non-teaching staff, top-scoring students in the 10th and PUC examinations, institutions with 100% results, students with special achievements, and Shreyans Gomes of Udupi for his performance in the UPSC examination were honoured.
Honorees were introduced to the gathering by Dr. Vincent Alva, Dr. Harold Monis, Ven. Vijay Joyson D’Souza, Sister Pramila Shanti D’Souza, Eliza Vaz, and Ven. Motesh Mathayus. The programme was welcomed by Ven. Vincent Crasta, Secretary of the Catholic Educational Society, and Vijay Joaquin D’Souza proposed the vote of thanks. Sister Anita D’Souza and Savita Kumari Shetty compered the event.