58th Annual Day Programme
St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa celebrated its 58thAnnualDay and showcased the Variety Entertainment Programme on 29thJanuary 2024 with a display of grandiosity and fervour. The august occasion was graced by the distinguished presence of Mr. Sanjit Rodrigues, IAS, Secretary (Protocol), Government of Goa as the Chief Guest. The event commenced at 9.30. am at the Xavier’s Ark.
The Chief Guest was welcomed at the Institution by the Administrator of the College Rev. Fr. Antonio Salema, Principal Prof. (Dr). Blanche Mascarenhas, Vice Principals Mrs. Ursula Barreto and Mrs. Sandra Fernandes, Chairperson of the PTA Mrs. Patricia D’Souza and the General Secretary of the Students Council Mr. Anuj Naik.
The compere, Dr.Prema Rocha, Department of English, extended eloquent felicitations to the distinguished guest and placed the illustrious career of the Chief Guest before the large gathering.
Rev. Fr. Antonio Salema, the Administrator of the College, in his opening remarks extended gracious salutations from the ‘Xaverian Family’ to the Chief Guest, while acknowledging the presence of staff, students and other invitees. Mr. Sanjit Rodrigues’s illustrious career, as an amazing successful leader, with a blend of humility and simplicity were highlighted. Fr. Salema also appreciated the collective efforts of the staff and students to weave a beautiful programme on this occasion.
Principal Prof. (Dr.) Blanche Mascarenhas delivered a detailed overview of the institution’s accomplishments during the meticulously planned annual report. The Diamond Jubilee celebrations of the college were placed on record, while acknowledging the hand of the Almighty and St. Francis Xavier in achieving this great feat. The audience were informed about the exceptional performance of students in University Examinations. The accolades won by the students in numerous inter-collegiate cultural and sports events were highlighted. The Principal provided insights into the numerous events organized by different departments of the College to enhance both academic and non-academic aspects of student performance. Emphasizing the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and holistic learning, Prof. Blanche mentioned that various workshops and training programs were conducted for students. St. Xavier’s College effectively implemented the New Education Policy (NEP) for the academic year 2023-2034, adhering to the principles of inclusion and equity emphasized by the system.
The prize distribution was led by Mr. Mahesh Nair, Department of Chemistry. Meritorious students of the Academic Year, 2022-2023 were honoured for their outstanding academic performance at the hands of the distinguished Chief Guest. Prizes instituted by academicians of the College and well-wishers were awarded to deserving students.
Addressing the gathering on this occasion, the Chief Guest, Mr.Sanjit Rodrigues called upon the students to uphold certain values that would hold them in good stead during challenging moments. The importance of honesty, integrity, patience and tolerance for individual growth was stressed by Mr. Rodrigues.Further, the distinguished guest laid stress on the integration of fundamental human values with patience to avoid frustration in their lives. Meditation and a calm disposition were considered as requisites for success. Mr. Sanjit Rodrigues also laid emphasis on the value of empathy to understand the distress faced by individuals in a society.
Mr. Anuj Naik, the General Secretary of the Student’s Council proposed the Vote of Thanks which was followed by the College Anthem to mark the end of the formal function.
The ceremonial function was followed by a spectacular display of cultural performances by students. The comperes, Janice Noronha and Joseph James set the tone for the cultural fiesta with their opening remarks ‘Where talent and passion come alive on stage’.
The opening act was a well-choreographed prayer dance showcasing skill, coordination and grace. ‘The Act of Silence’ was glorified in a well-sequenced mime, depicting the talents of youngsters. Likewise, the spirit of Goa found expression in the traditional Goan Dekhni ……bedecked in colorful sarees. The performance also depicted the happy exchange between the boatman and the women through the energetic song hanvsaiba _poltodivetam. The ‘Poetry of The Earth’ used the style of Greek chorus to sing the praises of the Earth. The costumes and headgear helped to celebrate man’s interconnectedness with nature. The stage came alive with foot-tapping music from the 80s accompanied by energetic young dancers, dressed in the style of the yester years. The enthusiasm was certainly palpable in their performance. The Goan Mando served to provide a befitting ending to the programme. The soulful singing accompanied by elegant costumes and the resounding ghumotrecreated the magical moments of the bygone days of the Goan society.
The college band served as the mood setters of the event, making the audience groove to their catchy musical compositions.The curtains came down on a day well spent with the singing of the National Anthem.
