Mangalore Diocese News

Media Release

Puttur, 23 March 2025 : St Philomena College, Puttur managed by the Catholic Board of Education, Mangaluru, proudly announced its official recognition as an Autonomous College under Mangalore University with approval from both the Government of Karnataka and the University Grants Commission (UGC). To mark this milestone, a grand inaugural ceremony of the autonomous status was held in the college auditorium.

Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of the Mangalore Diocese presided over the event. Delivering his presidential address, he stressed the need for humility and humanity in education. “Education alone is not enough; it must be accompanied by respect for human values,” he said. He urged everyone involved in the autonomous setup, staff and students alike, tofulfil their responsibilities and uphold the ideals of the institution.

Most Rev. Dr Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bangalore Archdiocese, lit the ceremonial lamp and offered his blessings. “When students receive the kind of education that fosters critical thinking, lifelong learning, effective communication, and innovation, they can create history,” he remarked, invoking blessings upon all stakeholders of the college.

In his address, former MP of Dakshina Kannada Constituency, Shri Nalin Kumar Kateel, unveiled the new Autonomous College Emblem and the revised college website. He lauded St Philomena College for providing value-based education to rural youth: “This institution, a pride of the coastal region, has not only excelled academically but has also produced responsible citizens for the nation.”

Prof. P. L. Dharma, Vice-Chancellor of Mangalore University, inaugurated several newly built facilities at the autonomous college, namely the Board Room, Examination Section, Academic Section, Finance Section, a renovated Food Court, and the MCA Laboratory. He emphasized that autonomous colleges carry a crucial responsibility to offer “quality and value-based education” and craft curricula aligned with the needs of the job market, thereby shaping inquisitive and socially responsible graduates.

“Philo Genesis,” a commemorative magazine celebrating the conferral of autonomous status, was released by Karnataka Legislative Council Member, Shri Ivan D’Souza. Speaking on the occasion, he recognized the immense contribution of Christian educational institutions in providing quality schooling to rural students, many of whom have risen to national prominence. He urged the college to continue offering programs that meet the evolving needs of society.

Captain Brijesh Chowta, Member of Parliament from Dakshina Kannada, expressed his delight in attending the function. He called St Philomena College a beacon of excellence in academics, sports, and cultural endeavours, noting that the newly gained autonomy should further promote innovative thinking, entrepreneurship, leadership, and research among students.

Similarly, Shri Ashok Kumar Rai, MLA of Puttur, lauded the institution’s longstanding contributions to education. “Many alumni occupy distinguished positions in society,” he said, calling on the college to go beyond imparting education by also creating employment opportunities for graduates.

On this commemorative occasion, Secretary of the Catholic Board of Education Very Rev. Dr. Praveen Lio Lasrado, felicitated 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 and Abhishek Suvarna Deputy Controllers of Examinations, the officials appointed to key positions in the autonomous framework:
Dr Kavitha K. R., Regional Joint Director of Collegiate Education, Mangalore Region, graced the event as a Guest of Honor and called for the institution to nurture entrepreneurs and researchers, not just job-seeking graduates.

Ms Stella Varghese, Assistant Commissioner of Puttur Subdivision, advised students to set achievable goals and work steadily, keeping faith in themselves and in higher values. She encouraged them to “ignore detractors and follow true motivators,” urging them to appreciate their parents’ sacrifices and contribute positively to society.

V. Rev. Anthony Michael Shera, the immediate past secretary of the Catholic Board of Education, who initiated the drive towards autonomy, expressed gratitude for the collective efforts that made this dream a reality: “Many worked tirelessly to see this day, and I congratulate them all.”

Two contributors to the autonomous status journey, Bhanu Prakash and Apeksha, were honoured for their dedicated service. Former correspondent Very Rev. Gerald D’Souza, former principals Rev. Francis Xavier Gomes, and Prof. Leo Noronha were also recognized for their significant roles in the development of the college.

During the ceremony,V. Rev. Lawrence Mascarenhas, Correspondent of the College welcomed the dignitaries with shawls and bouquet andthe college Principal, Rev. Dr Antony Prakash Monteiro, presented commemorative mementos to the dignitaries. Guests included V. Rev. Maxim Noronha; Gerald D’Costa, Vice President of Mai De Deus Church Parish Council; Pratima Hegde, President of the Alumni Association; and A. M. Abdul Kunhi, President of the Parent-Teacher Association. Faculty members, religious sisters, parishioners, alumni, well-wishers, and thousands of students witnessed the historic occasion.

A documentary titled “A Glimpse of the Legacy of the College” showcased the institution’s founding vision, rich heritage, commitment to quality education, cultural achievements, and wide-ranging opportunities for students.

The cultural highlights of the event included a traditional welcome by the cultural troupe of the College, who led the dignitaries in a vibrant procession accompanied by the NCC cadets’ Guard of Honor. A Yakshagana dance performance by the Yaksha Kala Kendra students enthralled the gathering. Later in the afternoon, faculty and students staged various cultural programs.

The celebration concluded with the “Autonomy Eve Gala,” featuring performances by renowned artists including playback singer Jaskaran Singh of Zee Sa Re Ga Ma Pa and The Voice of India fame, Samanvi Rai of Zee Sa Re Ga Ma Pa fame, Nadira Banu of Colors Kannada Edhe Thumbi Haadidenu fame, as well as performers Suprith Safalig and Mallika Matti Jogi.