A combined inauguration of the Student Council for the academic year 2025-26 and a felicitation ceremony for university rank holders was held at the Silver Jubilee Hall of St Philomena Autonomous College, Puttur, graced by distinguished dignitaries.

Chief guest and college alumnus Dr Narendra Rai Derla, retired Professor of Kannada inaugurated the event with a ceremonial lighting of the lamp. Addressing the gathering, Dr Derla highlighted St Philomena College as a beacon of form and intellect, praising the institution for its manifold pathways to success: whether it’s through initiatives supporting underprivileged students, the international achievements of athletes, the legacy of handwritten magazines like Antaranga Philovani, or the dedicated services of its faculty. He stressed that those elected to the Student Council bear a significant responsibility to uphold the  prestige and values of the college, wishing continued brilliance for the institution.

Mrs Joslin Fernandes, Excise Inspector of Puttur Subdivision, delivered an oath for a drug-free India and urged students to value self-respect, pursue life with conviction and faith, and remain resilient against negative habits. She encouraged young women to embrace self-reliance and step out of their comfort zones for a promising future.

Rev. Dr Antony Prakash Monteiro, Principal, administered the oath to council office bearers and members, reflecting on leadership as a path to service, not just responsibility. Gerald D’Costa, Vice President of Maide Deus Church Administration Committee, attended as an honoured guest.

The ceremony was presided over by the Correspondent of the College Very Rev.Lawrence Mascarenhas. He called on students to cultivate hearts imbued with service and to make their lives a beautiful offering to society.

Dr Abubaker Arlapadavu and Mrs Pratima Hegde, Presidents of the Parent-Teacher Association and Senior Student Council, respectively, felicitated council office bearers and members. The college annual “Philoprabha” magazine was unveiled by Mrs Joslin Fernandes with Dr Vinay Chandra as its editor.

Rank holders from Mangalore University examinations for the academic year 2023-24 were honoured: Lavanya K (M.Sc. Computer Science, First Rank), Arpita (MSW, Third Rank), Sanmati (B.Sc., Second Rank), and Chaitaali (BCA, Fourth Rank).

Students from Yaksha Kala Kendra led prayers, while Yusuf Alfaz, Secretary of Student Council delivered the welcome address. Muzammil I, President of Student Council introduced the dignitaries, Yajnesh introduced the honoured guest, Hiba Sheikh, Joint Secretary led the vote of thanks, and Priya M.K. compered the proceedings.