Media Release

Mangaluru, Nov 18: St Aloysius Pre-University College (SAPUC) in collaboration with Association of Indian French Professionals and Researchers (AIFPRO) on Friday November 17 conducted an inter-collegiate French singing competition - 'La Chansonette' at SAPUC.

The event which aimed to improve the use of the French language amongst students was a first of its kind that happened in the city.

The chief guest for the event was Dr Arunkumar S, president and founder of AIFPRO.

"He who sings frightens away his ills. When we sing we are fully in the present and never think of other hurdles and problems in life. You can either be a solitary singer or rejoice in nature where you socially learn how to be part of a team, how to synchronize with a community and sense happiness," said Dr Arunkumar S.

The event was presided over by the College principal, Fr Melwin Mendonca SJ. The finance officer Fr John Lang Bosco, vice principal Charlotte D'Souza, dean Dr Ganesh Amin and French lecturer Anasa were seated on the dais.

"We are planning to introduce a foreign language institute which can offer 15 days course for students in German, Spanish or some other foreign languages, so that the students know the basics of every language. As part of it we have begun an advance programme in French, preparing students for the DELF A1 Exam which is an international diploma exam. We want students to know the language and explore its culture," said Fr Melwin Mendonca, principal of SAPUC.

The competition was divided into two categories, solo and group. Students from different colleges of the district participated in the competition.

The winner of the solo category was Sheetal Pillai from St Aloysius Pre-University College and the group category winners were from St Agnes Pre-University College.

Similar contests are being planned by the association in other parts of India to find young promising talents.