Media Release

Mangaluru, Mar 4: To cultivate the spirit of innovation, a technical model competition was arranged for the students of St Aloysius Industrial Training Institute. In participation, the students prepared a number of innovative models by applying their knowledge and creativity under the guidance of their trainers. The models created by students will be exhibited to the public during Aloysius Tech-Fest 2022 on March 4 - 5. Inauguration of ‘Aloysius Tech Fest 2022’ in the premises of St Aloysius ITI was held on Friday at 10 AM.

The programme commenced with a prayer song rendered by the students of mechanic refrigeration and air conditioning (MRAC) first year students. John D'Souza, convener of the programme escorted the dignitaries to the dais. Melarik D'Mello, a student of MRAC first-year trade welcomed the gathering.

Premanand Shetty, mayor, Mangaluru City Corporation was the chief guest and Fr Dr Leo Dsouza SJ, former director of St Aloysius Industrial Training Institute was the guest of honour. Fr Melwyn Joseph Pinto SJ, Rector - St Aloysius Institutions, Mangaluru was the president of the programme.

Raju Sherigar, former principal of the institution; Roshan Dsouza, principal; Alwyn Menezes, vice principal; Noel Lobo, training officer and John Dsouza, convener of the programme were present.

The programme was inaugurated by switching on the innovative technical model prepared by the students. The dignitaries watered the plants which were part of the model to symbolise the need to protect nature along with advancement in technology.

As Fr Dr Leo Dsouza celebrated his 90th birthday on March 1, he was felicitated during the programme for his untiring efforts in establishing the institution as one of the best ITIs in and around. Former students and the present students of the institution also felicitated him with utmost love and gratitude. The felicitation programme for Fr Dr Leo Dsouza was conducted by Vincent Mendonca, JTO.

The chief guest Mayor Premanand Shetty was also felicitated by the institution for his service to the public. The felicitation programme was conducted by Robin Vas, JTO.

Addressing the gathering, the Mayor said,“This institution has been running for many years, empowering the youth by providing them with technical skills. A scientist by himself, Fr Dr Leo Dsouza is an inspiration and role model to the students. As a director, he has done a lot for the institution. St Aloysius Industrial Training Institute gives education to financially backward students. Many students from rural areas study in this institution. Just teaching is not enough, students should also be given an opportunity for participation. This is exactly what St Aloysius ITI is doing and it should be an inspiration for other institutions as well. The students have done many projects and exhibited their innovative side. I congratulate the Management and staff for providing such an opportunity to the students. The government also has started some short term courses under the Skill India programme. Youth can also make use of such initiatives .”

Receiving the felicitation, Dr Leo D'Souza SJ said, “When I saw the models at the exhibition I felt very happy and very proud. The models that students made were not from the text books, the students have made the models using innovative ideas. It is high time the nation realises the value of ITI education. Graduates find it very difficult to get employment whereas ITI pass outs are in demand. They have the power to change the world. God Bless you all.”

In his presidential address rector of St Aloysius Institutions Fr Melwyn Joseph Pinto SJ said, “I was happy to see the technical models exhibited in the Tech Fest. Students have used their skills and prepared very innovative models. You are the hope of this nation. You must become inventors in such a way that it is useful for society. The students who come to see these projects must feel inspired that they are also capable of doing such kinds of models. May God Bless you all and may your future be very bright.”

Shawn Sebastian D'Souza, student of MRAC first year trade proposed vote of thanks.

Staron Charles D'Souza and Ashwal D'Souza students of MRAC first year trade compared the programme.