Media Release

Mangaluru, Apr 16: ‘You stand on the threshold of greatness…. The future ahead is what you make of it. But having come so far is worthy of celebration in itself'. This was the note that Manipal School set out on to host its first-ever hybrid valedictory ceremony on April 9 and 11 for the students of class X batch of 2020-21.

The first part of the hybrid valedictory function began with the lighting of the lamp by the principal Anuradha Shivaram who then addressed the students. For the students, the day was a celebration of the years spent in school with friends and teachers to reminisce joyous moments.

The guest of honour, Dr Dilip G Naik, pro-vice-chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education shared his message with the students virtually advising them to never compare themselves with others, instead be their own competitors. Being brand ambassadors of the school, he cautioned them to never lose sight of their goal, but to pursue it with steadfast determination and perseverance.

Vignesh Santhosh, the school sports captain led the students in an oath-taking ceremony where students promised to uphold the culture of the school wherever they went. With the school choir singing the beautiful number ‘Pass it on' in the background, the teachers passed on the lit candles to the students as if to say ‘there’s bad stuff out there, here’s my light to guide your way'.

In their valedictorian address, Rakshith Bediguthu and Soha Salman, expressed their gratitude to Manipal School for gifting lifelong friends and a treasure trove of beautiful memories. On behalf of their batchmates, the two valedictorians thanked the principal and other staff members and also acknowledged the role of parents in making them and their peers into who they are. They concluded their speech by exhorting their peers to confidently go out on their chosen roads and expressed the hope that their year mates would always remain in touch with each other.

Mahika Sushanth, a student of grade 9 reminisced her interactions with her seniors and thanked them for their advice and goodwill.

In his parent address, Sunil Kumar, parent of Vishnu of grade X, thanked the principal, teachers and non-teaching staff for their unstinted support in the holistic development of the students.

Middle school coordinator, Tr Shilpa Moger, in her address, wished that the students overcome the challenges in the outside world with the skills and knowledge imparted to them at school.

Chief guest of the ceremony, Dr Ananth Prabhu, professor at Sahyadri College of Engineering, director of SurePass Academy also shared his inspiring message with the students on the virtual platform. In his talk he said, “Choose the subject or profession that you are passionate about so that you will eventually love what you do.” He urged the youngsters to know cyber law so that they are aware of the do’s and don’ts of social media and the digital footprint that they might leave. He also emphasised that instead of doing radical or overnight changes, work on 1% or incremental improvement. His words envisioned the bright future that lay ahead for the batch about to make its way into a new phase of life, a brand new world.

The poignant occasion witnessed many a wet eye as the juniors in the school choir bid farewell to their seniors with a melodious track 'I’ll always remember you'. (Click on the link to watch this beautiful moment https://youtu.be/1pQECSM7isA)

Part 1 of the hybrid valedictory ceremony culminated with 'Retrospect 2021', a video that was a deep stab of nostalgia to many students who were visibly emotional. Putting aside temporarily the thought of their impending separation, the graduating batch really enjoyed themselves.

The second part of the hybrid valedictory ceremony was held on Sunday April 11. As the COVID-19 pandemic still runs its course, owing to the government restrictions, Manipal School divided the batch of 62 students into three groups with different time allotment.

It was a beautiful evening, as the sky glistened with the setting sun, the batch of 2020-21 showed up, dressed in their finery. The young ladies glowed in colourful saris whereas gentlemen carried themselves smartly in suits and ethnic wear. Students walked the red carpet led by their class teacher. They were accompanied by their parents on stage where they were awarded mementos on their strengths and interests.

The programme concluded with a note of gratitude by Yogavathi, a high school teacher.

The parents appreciated the school for the meticulous organisation of the entire programme during these tough times. This is how some of them expressed their gratitude towards the school:
“Though this year has been different from the previous years, the teachers have adapted well with the new norms and also ensured that there was no stone left unturned in terms of quality of education imparted. Thanks to all the teachers and the support staff for the splendid efforts and execution.”
-Avinash Krishna Kumar, parent of Kashvi

“Thank you to all the teachers and staff for supporting and guiding our children during this year of pandemic. It is really a pleasure to have such a good institution which shapes and supports the overall development of the students.”
-Sheethal Madhusudan, parent of Adarsh M Laad

“It is a privilege to be associated with Manipal School. Our daughter got many opportunities to learn. We will be forever grateful and thankful to the institution.”
-Bhagwat Singh, parent of Dayanshi Rao

Student testimonials:

“The valedictory function was very well organised. It could not be completed without the support of our beloved principal ma’am and all the teachers. The sequence of the programme was well planned and the videos displayed during the programme made us all remember our lovely days spent in school which we all shall cherish always. I express my gratitude to all the teachers for making this last event of our school days a memorable one. Thank you all.”
-Monith C M

“The valedictory programme had a different vibe, when compared to the other programmes, for me that is, because it gave out more emotions and happiness. The video on the journey of Dr TMA Pai taught all of us to never give up and move along with our dreams, in order to make them come true. I want to say a big THANK YOU to everyone involved in Manipal School. During this roller coaster ride, I have developed from a nervous and cowardly boy to a brave and confident boy, I have learnt so much. But this is only a fraction of the knowledge which I have attained. The rest will come in my journey of life. I will do my best in everything I do. To me, the school isn't just a building of books, pens, pencils, etc, it was my second home. I will never forget this wonderful school and all the memories I have cherished here. It will always remain in my mind and heart.”
-Akhil Menon