Mangaluru: The Apostolic Carmel founded on July 16, 1868 in Bayone, France established St Ann’s College in 1943. At this juncture and milestone the college is celebrating its platinum jubilee and many achievements wherein an array of activities and events are planned all through this momentous year.

J R Lobo, member of the Legislative Assembly, Mangaluru south constituency and the chief guest inaugurated the platinum jubilee with an aim to ensure the institute grows to higher standards of teaching, research and to pave the way for higher education for girls and in the service of the country. The chief guest J R Lobo in his message acknowledged the collective efforts put in by the Christian missionaries and their priceless service to the country. He also spoke about how all us are called to endure the teaching profession as a vocation rather than just a profession.

The jubilee celebrations continued with the cllege graduation day – recognition of the outstanding efforts of the 73rd batch of BEd teacher trainees as they fly out of the portals of this institution as full fledged teachers.

The programme began by invoking God’s blessings. Dr Sr Clare AC, principal welcomed Sr Ida Barboza AC, secretary of Apostolic Carmel Educational Society, the president of the function, J R Lobo, member of the Legislative Assembly, Mangaluru south constituency, the chief guest and dignitaries.

The plan of action consisting of an assortment of events planned for the jubilee year proposed were read out by Dr Flosy D’Souza, associate professor and coordinator of the programme.

Sharmila Mascarenhas and Rose Pinto, assistant professors presented the highlights of the activities of the year through the annual college report. The cultural programme sequenced a western song, depicting a tale of a boy whose loss is reversed by fate. A folk dance known as ‘Lambadi’ presented a beautiful experience of nomadic tribal women and a dance depicting Goan culture was performed. ‘Jaago Zara’ – a song on women’s rights was sung in chorus. A tableau explicating the motto of the college ‘Lighted to Light’ was performed.

The rank holders of BEd and MEd were felicitated. Namrata Naik and Sr Latha Thomas were awarded gold medals founded by the alumnae association. The winners of the various competitions were awarded prizes and a couple of scholarships and founded prizes were given to the deserving students. Preeti Lewis, second BEd student compered the ceremony and Anna Crasta, BEd student president proposed the vote of thanks.

Sr Ida Barboza AC, educational secretary, Apostolic Carmel Educational Society, Sr Edna Furtado AC, superior, St Ann’s Convent and joint secretary, St Ann’s College of Education, the parents, staff-members, sisters in the campus, alumnae and students were present.