Mangalore: The Graduation Ceremony for the 12th Batch of the Post Graduate Diploma in Guidance and Counselling (PGDGC), ELEMENTS, and the inauguration of the 13th Batch, PATHFINDERS, was held on 2nd August 2024 at St. Agnes PG Centre Auditorium, Mangaluru. The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Capt. Ganesh Karnik, Former Member of the Legislative Council, Government of Karnataka; Sr. Dr. M. Venissa A.C., Principal of St. Agnes College; Sr. Dr. M. Vinora A.C., PG Coordinator; and Lugina Miranda, Coordinator of PGDGC at St. Agnes College, Mangaluru.
The programme commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp, symbolizing the inauguration of the event, followed by a soulful prayer song rendered by the PATHFINDERS team. The program featured interfaith readings from the Bhagavad Gita, Quran, and Bible, recited by Umesh Kumar, Habiba, and Sirija Monteiro, respectively.
In his keynote address, the chief guest, Capt. Ganesh Karnik emphasized the crucial role of Guidance and Counselling in today’s educational landscape. He also mentioned that there is a child within each of us and that as we grow older education becomes significant. He also highlighted the importance of being creative and practically oriented along with the conventional teaching method. He further stressed that in a society fragmented by various issues. It is essential to remember that we are human beings first and lead a balanced life where both mind and body are in harmony.
Sr. Dr. M. Venissa A.C., in her Presidential Address, echoed the necessity of Guidance and Counselling, particularly during the formative years. She stressed the importance of balancing professional duties, family commitments, and social responsibilities for the welfare and development of the individual as well as for nation-building.
A brief report on the PGDGC course was presented by Archana Kamath. Reflections on their journey and experiences were shared by Florine D’Souza, Kiran Kothari, and Anand Nazareth from the ELEMENTS batch.
The Graduates were presented by Lugina Miranda, Counselor, Psychotherapist, and PGDGC Course Coordinator and the certificates were awarded to them by Capt. Ganesh Karnik. The initiation of the 13th Batch, PATHFINDERS, was marked by the lighting of the diyas by Sr. Dr. M. Vinora A.C., PG Coordinator, followed by the administration of the oath by Lugina Miranda. The name of the new batch was creatively unveiled to the audience through a skit performance by Sr. Reena and her team.
Grishin D’Souza extended a warm welcome to all the dignitaries. Venkatesh Prasad introduced the Chief Guest, Capt. Ganesh Karnik and Dr. Sharmila Kumari M. introduced the Guest of Honour, Sr. Dr. M. Venissa A.C., to the audience. The program concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Sirija Monteiro. The ceremony was attended by faculty members and the family members of the PGDGC graduates. Debbie Lobo and Priyanka D’Souza compered the programme.