Mangalore: A meaningful awareness session “Suicide Prevention – Teachers as Gatekeepers” was conducted at St Aloysius English Medium School, Urwa on 1st April 2026 in the school hall. The programme aimed to equip teachers with the knowledge and skills required to identify and support students who may be facing emotional distress.
The session was compered by teacher Sonia Saldanha, who welcomed the gathering with the thoughtful message that a teacher’s influence goes far beyond the classroom and can sometimes even save a life. She emphasized that teachers are not only educators but also guides and protectors who play an important role in the well-being of their students.
The programme began with a prayer led by the teachers, invoking God’s blessings for the success of the session.
The dignitaries present on the dais included the Correspondent Rev. Fr. Benjamin Pinto, Headmaster Aloysius D’Souza, resource persons Dr. Laveena Noronha, Director of Ave Maria Palliative Care and Coordinator of Suicide Lifeline, Mangalore, and Jyoti B. Kanade, Counselling Psychologist and Visiting Faculty at Roshni Nilaya. Senior teachers Lovina D’Cunha and Lovina Pinto were also present.
The resource persons were warmly welcomed and felicitated by the Headmaster Aloysius D’Souza. This was followed by the lighting of the lamp, symbolizing the spreading of knowledge and wisdom.
Addressing the gathering, Correspondent Rev. Fr. Benjamin Pinto shared an inspiring message highlighting the responsibility of teachers in guiding and supporting students during challenging times.
The resource persons were then introduced to the gathering. Dr. Laveena Noronha shared her valuable insights and experience in the field of mental health and suicide prevention. Jyoti B. Kanade also contributed meaningfully to the session by explaining how teachers can identify warning signs of emotional distress among students and provide timely support.
The session was highly informative and interactive, helping teachers understand their vital role as gatekeepers in safeguarding students’ mental health and well-being.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Teacher Rita, who expressed gratitude to the management, resource persons, and all the participants for making the session meaningful and enlightening.
The session left the teachers with valuable insights and strengthened their commitment to becoming more caring, understanding, and supportive educators for their students.