Media Release
Mangaluru, Apr 28: The department of postgraduate studies and research in commerce (MCOM) of St Aloysius College (Autonomous), organized a day-long national level intercollegiate undergraduate fest Querencia 2023on April 26 in L F Rasqinha auditorium, LCRI block.
Querencia 2023 - towards the pinnacle, Alohomora, is to reach the culmination point, the most successful point in finding students’ talents and discovering newer ways to express them. Alohomora is a spell that is used to open locks on doors and windows, and rightly, the event had given a platform to the participants from different colleges to climb greater heights by unleashing their hidden skills and talents, besides discovering their own self.
Badekkila Pradeep, prominent alumnus, Big Boss fame, voice over artiste and television actor, was the chief guest of the programme. Dr Praveen Martis SJ, the principal, presided over the programme. Dr Alwyn D Sa, registrar and controller of examinations, Fr Vincent J Pinto SJ, the finance officer, Dr Loveena Lobo, director of Maffei Block, Dr P P Sajimon, dean of PG Studies, Jennifer Maria Quadras, hod of PG commerce, Renita Joyce Fernandes, saff coordinator of Querencia - 2023, Olivia Lavita Lobo and Roshan, student coordinators were present on the dais.
A short visual profile featuring the department of MCom, was displayed during the inaugural. The department strives to transform students into innovative leaders for the success of organizations and the betterment of the society. The department has successfully completed 15 academic years and has always encouraged the students to develop independent thinking, explore new ideas, sharpen their analytical skills and to expand their horizon.
The lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries rendered meaning to the theme Alohomora, to unleash the hidden talents. The event was inaugurated formally by unveiling of ALOHOMORA by the dignitaries.
The chief guest, Badekkila Pradeep in his inaugural address said that he is always proud to be an Aloysian and indeed glad to be back to his alma mater. He emphasized on exploring one’s own talents and working on to enhance the same. He encouraged the students to make use of every opportunity to unleash their hidden talents. He also mesmerized the audience with his famous dialogues on television and Bengaluru’s Namma Metro.
Dr Praveen Martis SJ in his presidential address warmly congratulated the MCom department for organizing such a wonderful event. He enlightened the audience with the root meaning of the Spanish word ‘Querencia’. “Querencia is a place where one feels safe, peaceful and calm. It is a physical or mental space from where one’s strength is drawn. Though each participant is anxious about the various events in store, they should feel peaceful and calm enjoying the lovely atmosphere and exploring the campus”, he said. Further, he added that like the characters in Harry Potter all the students should work with passion and commitment to find their passion and goals in their lives.
The alumnus of the college, Badekkila Pradeep was felicitated during the programme acknowledging his contribution in the field of television and arts.
Anushree compered the programme. Jennifer Maria Quadras welcomed the gathering. Renita Joyce Fernandes proposed the vote of thanks.
Querencia – 2023, towards the pinnacle, had Alohomora as its theme for this year. It included varieties of events like, the House of Gryffindor - Quiz; the House of Hufflepuff - HR; the House of Slytherin - Finance; the House of Ravenclaw - Marketing and Triwizard - the Best Manager. The pre-assignment task, ‘Capture Your Smile at Aloysius’, a selfie contest for the participants added flavor to the event and motivated the participants to explore the campus.
Altogether 18 colleges participated in the event, enhancing the happiness and making this event a convergence of talents, vitality and creativity. The diversity of participants added extra color and glamour to the event.
The overall runners of Querencia – 2023 was Yenepoya Institute of Arts, Science, Commerce and Management, Mangaluru and the Overall Champions of Querencia -2023 was Canara College, Mangaluru.