Mangaluru : St Agnes College Celebrates 100 Glorious Years of Education and Service

Government must provide impetus for research schemes to support Autonomous Colleges, not just premier institutes : Prof Anjana Devi

Media Release
Photos : Stanly Bantwal

Mangaluru, Apr 10 : The ability to succeed always begins with the hard work of the individual. “I had a lot of ups and downs during my journey, but I pursued my endeavours with hard work and determination. Of course my alma-mater, teachers, mentors have supported me a lot for my success. But, family’s support also played a crucial role throughout the journey,” said the Chief Guest of the Centenary Valedictory program of St Agnes College in the city, Dr. Anjana Devi, Scientist, Ruhr University, Bochum, Germany. The program was held on 10th April, 2021.

She also added that beyond employment, parents must encourage their children to take-up research in their field of interest. “Even government must provide impetus for research schemes to support autonomous colleges and not just premier institutes,” she added.

However in the era of digitization, Professor Anjana Devi sincerely appealed to the students that they must not ignore the basic human values. “Parents and teachers have exposed us to so many fundamental principles like maintaining social relationships, appreciation to what we have etc."

In view of Covid-19 guidelines, the Centenary Valedictory program was streamed online and viewed by audience from all over the world.

Vedavyasa Kamath, MLA, Mangaluru South Constituency, Naveen R.D'Souza Corporator, MCC, released the souvenir of the Centenary Year. Kamath, in his address commended the college for following the COVID-19 protocol and expressed his support for the endeavors of the institute.“It is not just the celebration of 100 years of the college, but, I am elated by the difference this institution has been able to make in the lives of lakhs of students by giving them access to education. It’s the endearing effort of both former and present principals, staff and students that the institute has reached to this great height,” he said.

In her presidential address, Sister Maria Nirmalini A. C. , Superior General, The Apostolic Carmel Congregation, “We are in new times today. The pandemic has given us new insights. There are new possibilities, new opportunities; there is a new future ahead of us. Be bold, be courageous, take initiative, innovate, lead with an adventurous life,” she said.

Sr. Dr. M Venissa AC, Principal of St. Agnes College (Autonomous) welcomed the gathering. Sr. Norine D’Souza, Principal, St. Agnes PU College delivered the vote of thanks.

Dr. Devi Prabha Alva, Convener, of the Centenary programme, Malavika Shetty and Pramila Dsouza compered the formal program. The Cultural program was hosted by Preethi and Henrika, Student Presidents of Degree and Pre-University College respectively.

The former Principals who had served the college were felicitated by the dignitaries for their valuable contribution in the growth of the college. The core committee members of the alumni were honoured for their contribution to the centenary memorial block during the occasion.

The book ‘Sprouting Seed to Regal Palm- History of St. Agnes College’ was released during the formal program.

Students depicted a dance tableau on the history of the college and the contribution made by the founder of St. Agnes College Mother Mary Aloysia A.C.
Among the dignitaries present on the occasion were Sr Dr Lydia Fernandes A.C., Joint Secretary, St. Agnes Institutions, J.R. Lobo, Ex-MLA, Mangaluru South Constituency, Dr. Meera Aranha, Alumni Convener.

Prior to the Centenary Valedictory program, Centenary Thanksgiving Eucharistic Celebration was held. Most Rev Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore presided over the mass with the participation of other priests , college staff and students.