St Philomena College (Autonomous), Puttur, celebrated its Annual Day for the academic year 2025–26 with great enthusiasm and grandeur at the SJM Auditorium on Tuesday.

Presiding over the programme, College Correspondent Rev. Fr Lawrence Mascarenhas addressed the gathering, describing students as the “heart of the institution.” He highlighted that the college provides ample opportunities for holistic development and urged students to make the best use of them to shape their personalities. He congratulated students for being dynamic, creative, and active, and acknowledged that their achievements are a result of the guidance provided by the principal and faculty.

The chief guest, Puttur MLA Ashok Kumar Rai, emphasized the importance of skill development in today’s world. He observed that while unemployment was once a major issue, there is now a shortage of skilled individuals. Stressing the need for practical knowledge, he encouraged students to equip themselves with relevant skills to face challenges confidently. He added that a person achieves completeness through good health, quality education, and respectable employment, and noted that dedication, proper planning, and clear goals are essential for success.

Prof. Kavitha K.R., Regional Joint Director of the Department of Collegiate Education, Mangaluru, urged students to develop quick thinking abilities to effectively utilize opportunities in a rapidly changing world. Highlighting the dynamic nature of modern society, she stressed the importance of adaptability, cautioning that failure to adjust to change may hinder the realization of one’s dreams.

On the occasion, the Principal, Rev. Fr. Dr. Antony Prakash Monteiro, presented the annual report, outlining the academic and co-curricular achievements of the institution over the past year.

The programme also featured a felicitation ceremony honouring notable achievers. Dr Vinayachandra, Dr Geetha Poornima K., and Dr Bharathi S. Rai were felicitated for earning their Ph.D. degrees. Mr. Tejaswi Bhat K., who was selected as a Sub-Lieutenant in the NCC Naval Wing, was honoured. Dr. K. Chandrashekhar was recognised for representing Mangalore University at the National Integration Camp held in Mysuru. Lecturers and students who cleared the KSET examination were also felicitated.

Prizes were distributed to students who excelled in sports, as well as to winners of various sports events conducted for staff and students.

Among the dignitaries present were Rev. Fr Ashok Royan Crasta, Principal of St Philomena Pre-University College, Puttur, Dr Abubakkar Arlapadavu, President of the Parent-Teacher Association; along with other distinguished guests.

The programme commenced with a prayer by students of the Lalitha Kala Sangha. The Vice Principal, Dr. Vijayakumar M., welcomed the gathering, while the Academic Registrar, Dr Norbert Mascarenhas, proposed the vote of thanks. The event was compered by Poojashree V. Rai of the Department of Physics.