St Aloysius COLLEGE, Mangaluru the PRIDE of Dakshina Kannada Truly Deserves the ‘DEEMED TO BE UNIVERSITY” which has been providing Quality Education for 144 Years Status’-MP Nalin Kumar Kateel, who was the Chief Guest at the Formal Felicitation Programme to Commemorate the Joyous occasion of the Launch of the ST ALOYSIUS (Deemed to be University) (SADU)
Mangaluru: In a world where progress is measured by the minds we nurture, ST ALOYSIUS DEEMED TO BE UNIVERSITY, [SADU] Mangaluru stands tall as a pioneer in shaping futures and fostering brilliance. The institution’s legacy is not just in its past, but in the boundless future it inspires. St Aloysius College (SAC), recently granted deemed university status, was officially launched in a grand event at the college grounds.
From humble beginnings to global recognition, which witnessed the evolution of an educational beacon, for the past 144 years, where passion met purpose and dreams took flight. And now the institution is not just St Aloysius College (Autonomous), but St Aloysius Deemed to be University. This momentous occasion marks the beginning of a brand new chapter which ensures the continuation of the tradition of excellence. This is the story of this prestigious institution, where knowledge thrives and futures flourish.
The dignitaries were escorted to the stage by the ‘Lady of Mercy’ Brass Band from Fajir, and the welcome address was delivered by Fr Melwin Pinto SJ, the Rector of St Aloysius Institutions, followed by the unveiling of a masterpiece that embodies the essence of the motto of the college ‘Lucet at ardet’, (Shine to En-kindle). This painting is not just revealing strokes of brilliance and colours that dance on the canvas but a fusion of metaphors that speak louder than words. Each stroke is a celebration of creativity, inspiration, and the enduring power of art to uplift the human spirit. Chief Guest Member of Parliament Nalin Kumar Kateel along with Fr Dionysius Vas SJ- the Chancellor of SADU- Provincial 0f Karnataka Jesuits symbolically unveiled the portrait signifying the Deemed to be University status.
This art that uncovers the Jesuit ethos of value-based education, creating men and women for and with others is a master class art by Rev Fr. Jomin Thomas, presently serving as an administrator in Snehasadan, St.Camillus care home for HIV/AIDS children, Mangalore. He had the privilege of designing altars and paintings in several churches across India and his paintings were featured in different exhibitions in Bangalore and Nagpur.
Speaking on the occasion, MP Nalin Kumar Kateel said, “St Aloysius College is no doubt the pride of Dakshina Kannada having given quality education to thousands of students who are serving the globe in various posts and capacities, and this Institution deserves to have the status as; Deemed To Be University”, which takes credit as the FIFTH University in DK, and we are really happy about it. I have seen the struggles of the Jesuit father when I was in Delhi. Dakshina Kannada district has lots of Catholic education centres and hospitals, and the only institute to get the status of deemed to be University is St Aloysius College”.
“This college is one of the old colleges, and a lot of people have studied and achieved in their field. This institute has good grades and rank, and I have studied at St Philomena College Puttur and I have been a student of Fr Francis Xavier Gomes. There has been lots of struggle, and because of God’s will, today this day became possible. I was very happy when this news came to me. This is good news for everyone in Dakshina Kannada district to have the 5th University. St Aloysius College has contributed great personalities to the nation. K S Hegde, George Fernandes and TMA Pai are some of them. The Christian educational and health institutions played a pivotal role in the development of the district. The service of Christian institutions in the district always stands first in the service sector. I experienced it closely and I am proud of that,” added MP Kateel.
Congratulating the management of St Aloysius Institute, Dr Gerald Issac Lobo, Bishop of Udupi diocese, said, “The launch of St. Aloysius Deemed to be University and this day marks a significant milestone and service to humanity. I extend thanks to the entire St. Aloysius community and your dedication. Today we also celebrated the release of the book’ History of Diocese of Mangalore’, in its pages, it’s filled with wisdom and helps in guiding us. The book is the publication wing of St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) and 22nd publication and this book marks the 1st ever book under university status. Education is not about acquiring knowledge but bringing positive changes in the world. Let us create a friendly environment where people from all communities feel welcomed.” The History of the Diocese of Mangalore Diocese was originally written by Rev. Fr J. B. Moore SJ, who has also served as the Principal of St Aloysius College and was first published in 1905. It is one of the pioneering documentations of the history of Mangalore Diocese.
Fr Dionysius Vaz SJ, chancellor, St Aloysius Deemed to be University, said, “University remains crucial for society. Across the globe, they are considered good for the poor; they serve as a chance to improve. We are grateful to God for giving us this University. It all started as a dream, and today it has become a reality. When UGC was announced, we were happy, and all the alumni are happy for the achievements marked today. Nalin Kumar Kateel has been a great support and a mentor. The growth of our students wouldn’t have been possible without the support of teachers. The university must be a place for dialogue and a temple of discussion. Our alumni are our ambassadors, and they are growing all over the world.”
Quoting the timeless words of Helen Keller, who once said, ‘Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.’ Success is rarely a solitary journey; it is often a collective effort, fueled by the support and collaboration of those around us and today was the day to acknowledge and appreciate people who played a pivotal role in our pursuit of achievement as University. Their belief in our abilities, their lending hands during challenging times, and their celebration of our victories all contribute to our growth and triumphs.
Dr Alwyn D’Sa-the Registrar of St Aloysius deemed to be University read out the names of the dignitaries, Sponsors and Benefactors among others who had played a vital role in this long journey of St Aloysius attaining the Deemed to be University status, and they were MP Nalin Kumar Kateel; Ms Oshani Fernandes, the esteemed daughter of Late Sri Oscar Fernandes and Oshani had been instrumental in making regular positive interventions in the process of attaining the current status of a university to this institution; Fr Francis Xavier Gomes an Eminent Alumnus, Former Principal, St Philomena’s College, Puttur, a people’s priest, belies in embracing humanity, and a person for and with others, an ambassador of the core values of his alma mater; driven by pride and conviction that St Aloysius deserves the status of a university.
Fr Dionysius Vaz SJ, the Former Rector, St Aloysius Institutions and currently, the Provincial of Karnataka Jesuit Province – A visionary leader, motivator and a strong believer in the principles of transparency, accountability and highest ethical standards, instrumental in facilitating TWO universities in the Province, a pioneering Jesuit Chancellor of 2 universities, and may be more during his eventful tenure. Fr Vaz has gifted a university to the people of this region and this occasion will be written in the history of this part of the world – there will be another chapter in the extended history of the district with the title: JESUITS GIFT A UNIVERSITY TO DAKSHINA KANNADA.; Fr Melwin Joseph Pinto SJ, the Rector of St Aloysius Institutions has played a special role in smoothly facilitating the recognition and formation of this unique deemed university.
Rev. Dr Praveen Martis SJ person who has been at the centre of the entire process and followed it from close quarters. His single-minded devotion to this pursuit is unmatched and inexplicable. By sheer dint of his patience, perseverance and never give up attitude, he has been able to achieve this not short of a miraculous distinction. We have been witness to the grit and resilience, courage and dynamism, persuasion and moral influence which have brought us to this unprecedented milestone in the history of St Aloysius institutions.
Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha: Bishop of Mangalore Diocese; Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza: Bishop Emeritus, Diocese of Mangalore; Most Rev. Dr Jerald Issac Lobo: Bishop of the Diocese of Udupi; Most Rev. Dr Francis Serrao: Bishop of the Diocese of Shivamogga (he was also the former Rector of St Aloysius Institutions & Provincial of Karnataka Jesuit Province; Most Rev. Dr Robert Michael Miranda: Bishop of the Diocese of Gulbarga. Also, Past Rectors/Principals/ Jesuits & Lay collaborators, namely Fr Joseph Rodrigues SJ; Rev. Fr Denzil Lobo SJ; Fr Valerian Prashanth Madtha SJ; Fr Swebert D’Silva SJ; Fr Xavier Vedam SJ: General Secretary, All India Association for Christian Higher Education (AIACHE); Dr Joji Reddy SJ: Xavier Board of Higher Education in India; Fr Ravi John SJ: National Advisor, Jesuit Alumni Association of India; A C Vinayraj, Corporator, Court Ward, among others.
Jeevan Saldanha: CEO, Spectrum Industries and illustrious Alumnus who accompanied Institution Heads in some of the crucial visits to the officials known for his loyalty and quick response to the needs of his alma mater; Walter D’Souza: Eminent Alumnus and renowned Industrialist/Entrepreneur: Facilitated the process in various ways. Ever willing to support and stand by the institution.; Dr A M Narahari: Former Registrar of this prestigious College who is our colleague who was instrumental in the draft proposal, led the process of the visit of the inspection team; Ashfaq Ahmed; An admirer of the institution and has been a liaison in his unique ways in Delhi; Smt Giselle Mehtha/Mr D B Mehta: Well-wisher and supporter of the institution; Smt Celine Lobo: Well-wisher; Renowned Advocate Clarence Pais: Well-wishers, were distributed to everyone.
As we stand on the threshold of endless possibilities, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie before us. With passion, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence, we have no doubt that we will achieve great things. It was indeed a memorable day for everyone to be a part of this historic occasion.
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Celebrating Aloysian Legacy! Thanksgiving Eucharistic Mass on Launch of St Aloysius Deemed to be University
With Immense GRATITUDE & HUMILITY, and celebrating the ALOYSIAN LEGACY: ENSURING AN INCLUSIVE FUTURE, a THANKSGIVING EUCHARISTIC Mass to Commemorate the Birth of ST ALOYSIUS DEEMED TO BE UNIVERSITY held at St Aloysius Institution Open Air Grounds.
Mangaluru: It was one of the greatest moments in 144 years of history of St. Aloysius COLLEGE, Mangaluru and with grateful hearts to commemorate a significant milestone in the life of St. Aloysius College. At this historic moment, it was appropriate to reflect upon the divine providence that has accompanied St Aloysius Institution on its journey to be Deemed to be University. At this Thanksgiving Eucharistic Celebration, it was appropriate to reverence the countless blessings showered upon this institution. From the visionary founders who sowed the seeds of learning to the dedicated educators who impart wisdom with passion and zeal, from the diligent students who seek knowledge to the supportive families and benefactors who have nurtured our growth.
In the words of the Psalmist, “The Lord has done great things for us and we are filled with joy.” Let us rejoice in the faithfulness of God, who has led us through the wilderness, across the mountains, into the promised land of academic excellence and institutional recognition. As St Aloysius College embarked upon this new chapter in its journey as a university, it was time to carry forth the torch of knowledge with humility and grace, ever mindful of our responsibility to serve humanity with wisdom, compassion, and integrity. May the spirit of St. Aloysius continue to inspire and guide the Aloysian Family as they strive to fulfil their mission of excellence in education, service to society, and dedication to God.
On this auspicious occasion, the Thanksgiving Eucharistic Mass/Celebration was concelebrated by Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore Diocese, joined by o Most Rev Dr Francis Serrao SJ, Bishop of Shimoga Diocese, Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, Bishop Emeritus, Most Rev Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, Bishop of Udupi Diocese and Most Rev. Dr Robert Miranda, Bishop of Gulbarga Diocese; and Rev Fr Dionysius Vaz SJ, Provincial of Karnataka Jesuit Province and Chancellor of St Aloysius Deemed to be University, Rev Fr. Melwin Pinto SJ, Rector of St. Aloysius institutions, Rev. Dr Praveen Martis SJ, Vice-Chancellor in charge, St Aloysius Deemed to be University, and graced by all the Jesuits, Priests, Religious, staff, students, benefactors and well-wishers to this Eucharistic Celebration.
The Eucharistic Mass was attended by a large gathering of Priests, Nuns, Staff and Students of St Aloysius Deemed to be University (SADU), well-wishers, and Benefactors, among others. In the First reading of the Mass, from the book of Prophet Isaiah Chapter 32, verses:15-20. In this passage, Isaiah speaks about the transformation that will occur in the land of Judah, symbolizing a spiritual renewal and the establishment of God’s righteous kingdom. He conveys the promise of abundant blessings for those who remain steadfast in their faith and trust in the Lord.
In the 2nd reading summary: This passage is taken from the letter of St James, Chapter 1, verses 22-27. Here St James emphasizes the importance of genuine faith expressed through righteous living and practical deeds of love. This passage encapsulates his central theme of faith in action, highlighting the transformative power of God’s Word when it is internalized and manifested in one’s conduct. It was time to lend our ears to accept the word of God in our hearts.
As the attendees gathered in gratitude for the blessings endowed upon them, they all joined their hearts in prayer and presented their intentions to the Lord during the Prayers of the Faithful. Following this, they brought forward their offerings in thanksgiving for God’s abundant love and providence during the Offertory Procession. May their prayers and offerings reflect the gratitude that was felt in their hearts on this joyous and religious celebration. It was the right moment to approach this time with reverence and thankfulness.
The main celebrant of the Mass was Rev Dr Peter Paul Saldanha-Bishop of Mangalore Diocese and Rev Dr Praveen Martis SJ- the VC In-Charge of SADU. In his Homily Rev Dr Francis Sewrrao-the Bishop of Shimoga diocese, and former Rector of St Aloysius College, Mangalore, and also the Provincial of Karnataka Jesuit Province said, “Finally St Aloysius College has reached a milestone being a Deemed to be University, following on the motto ‘Lucet et Ardet, in Latin words which mean ‘Shine to Enkindle’ refer to the qualities of the mind and the heart. As a University SADU will promote Justice; Promote Reconciliation and Peace; will make a huge difference in the Community; among many other positive changes.”
“Getting a University status is also Challenging, mainly bridging a gap between the rich and poor. There should not be any discrimination of faith, religion and caste. We need to follow the Christian principles of Justice, Reconciliation and Peace. We need to love our enemies first just like we do to our friends. We need to be perfect like our Heavenly Father who is always perfect. We need to respect and treat everyone equally, with no discrimination,” added Bishop Serrao.
Quoting Rabindranath Tagore’s words, “Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high, Where knowledge is free, Where the world has not been broken up into fragments, By narrow domestic walls, Where words come out from the depth of truth, Where tireless striving stretches its arms towards perfection Where the clear stream of reason has not lost its way Into the dreary desert sand of dead habit, Where the mind is led forward by thee, Into ever-widening thought and action, Into that heaven of freedom, my Father, let my country awake, we need to see that education encourages students to lead a better life and be the leaders and pillars of this great nation of Ours. I am very positive that God will bless SADU which took birth today, and it will shine and spread Love and peace among all,” said Bishop Francis Serrao.
Rector Fr Melwin Pinto SJ speaking on the occasion after the mass said ” I am overflowing with immense joy and feelings on this historic and memorable milestone. This Thanksgiving Eucharistic Mass is celebrated with immense gratitude and Humility, celebrating the Aloysian Legacy: Ensuring an Inclusive Future, to commemorate the joyous occasion of the launch of St Aloysius Deemed to be University. My sincere gratitude and heartfelt appreciation to MP Nalin Kumar Kateel for his support, and for personally escorting Rev Dr Praveen Martis SJ to meet the Union Education Minister and higher authorities in the Parliament in getting this University status materialized. His connection with PM Modi in moving things forward, we need to give a standing ovation. SADU will make a difference in the education career of the youth.”
The words of gratitude were rendered by Fr William Marcel Rodrigues SJ, head of the Department of Journalism, and Director of St Aloysius Sarang Radio, and the ceremony was eloquently and professionally compered by Ms Alita D’Sa- Associate Professor, Dept of English, SADU.
