Udupi: Milagres College, Kallianpur accorded a hearty farewell to its beloved principal Dr Gerald Pinto and Joachim D’Souza, second division assistant on July 1. Also, the college welcomed its new principal Dr Vincent Alva on the occasion.

Bishop of Udupi Diocese Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo presided over the ceremony and felicitated both Dr. Gerald and Joachim on their retirement.

The bishop, in his presidential remarks, thanked Dr Gerald and Joachim for their hard work and unlimited support towards the college. Wishing the new principal, "Progress of the students is the main goal any teacher should have, and I look forward for the same from the principal and the staff of Milagres College," he said.

Fr Dr. Lawrence D’Souza, during his address thanked Dr. Gerald and Joachim for their dedicated service towards the college, the staff and students.

Dr. Gerald thanked each and everyone for their co-operation and timely support, and also spoke on behalf of Joachim. Thanking our Mother of Miracles, he said, "She brought me here, gave me shelter, and I owe to her for whatever I am today."

Dr. Vincent Alva, the new principal of the college was introduced and welcomed by the Head of Commerce Department Dr Herald Monis. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Vincent asked everyone to render their support in his new journey.

Dr Gerald had joined Milagres College in June 1981 as the founder member of science section. He has served the college by being the convener of science association, career guidance cell, and more towards the college and university level. Joachim who had joined as an attender in June 1980, got promoted to the post of second division assistant in the year 1985.

Earlier, correspondent Fr Stany B Lobo welcomed the guests and the gathering. Students Meghana and Jovita Andrade from final BSc compered the programme. Prof Joseph Fernandes from the Department of Chemistry proposed the vote of thanks.