Puttur: St Philomena College, Puttur, marked a significant milestone with the inauguration of its autonomous status on March 22, 2025, at the college auditorium. The event was graced by prominent dignitaries from academia, politics, and religious institutions.

Dignitaries and Guests

The ceremony was blessed and inaugurated by Most Rev. Dr Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bengaluru. The Chief Guest, Sri U. T. Khader Fareed, Honourable Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, praised the institution for its contributions to higher education.

Among the guests of honour were:

  • Sri D. V. Sadananda Gowda, Former Chief Minister of Karnataka and Former Union Minister
  • Sri Ivan D’Souza, Member of the Karnataka Legislative Council
  • Dr Kavitha K. R., Regional Joint Director, Department of Collegiate Education, Mangaluru

The event was presided over by Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangaluru Diocese. Other notable guests included Sri Dinesh Gundu Rao, Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Karnataka, and Captain Brijesh Chowta and Sri Nalin Kumar Kateel, Members of Parliament.

Celebrating Autonomy

The occasion celebrated the college’s transition to autonomous status, a move that promises academic freedom, innovation, and excellence. The administration expressed gratitude to its governing body, staff, students, alumni, and parents for their contributions to the institution’s success.

Rev. Dr Antony Prakash Monteiro, Principal of St Philomena College, emphasized that autonomy would enable the institution to design a curriculum aligned with industry trends and enhance research opportunities.

New Courses and Admissions

St Philomena College announced the introduction of new UG and PG programs, including BBA in Business Analytics, BCA in Data Analytics, and B.Sc. in Data Science, alongside existing degrees in Arts, Commerce, Science, and Computer Applications. Admissions for 2025-26 are now open.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks, celebrating St Philomena College’s journey towards academic excellence and innovation.