Annual Day 2024 celebrated at National Junior College, Barkur

By Prof. Archibald Furtado
Bellevision Media Network

Udupi/Barkur: The Annual Day Celebrations of National Junior College (NJC), Barkur, held on December 6, 2024, was a grand and memorable event that showcased the institution’s rich legacy and achievements. The program commenced at 10:30 a.m. on the National Silver Jubilee Memorial artistic open stage, 1972, with an atmosphere of pride, festivity, and nostalgia.

 

Ceremonial Welcome and Dignitaries:

The event began with a ceremonial welcome for the chief guest, Kundapur MLA Mr. Kiran Kumar Kodgi, along with other esteemed guests and members of the BES management. A lively college band led a grand procession to honour their arrival. The program was presided over by BES President Mr. B. Shantarama Shetty.

 

Prominent alumni, including Mr. Dinesh Pai, a successful businessman of M/s Akhil Associates Engineers & Civil Contractors, Mangalore; Mr. Karunakar Shetty Sankadi, president of the National Old Students Association; and Rotarian Mr. Ganesh Kumar Shetty of Rotary Club Barkur, graced the occasion, reflecting the pride and success of NJC’s illustrious past students.

 

Inaugural Program:

The celebrations began with a soulful hymn invoking the blessings of the Almighty, followed by a warm and cordial welcome address by Correspondent Mr. Gopala Naik. Principal Prof. Kotraswami presented fresh roses to all the dignitaries, setting a tone of affection and respect. 

 

Prof. P. Archibald Furtado, Administrator Coordinator of the National group of Educational Institutions, provided an insightful overview of NJC’s illustrious journey, highlighting its transformative role in shaping countless lives and its commitment to academic and cultural excellence over the decades.

 

Principal Prof. U. Kotraswami’s annual report showcased remarkable achievements, both academic, Cultural and Sports and games, innovative initiatives, a rise in admissions and a strong commitment to academic excellence throughout the year.

 

Awards and Recognitions

The highlight of the day was the recognition of academic and extracurricular excellence. Proficiency award winners, cultural competition champions, and sports achievers were felicitated with cash prizes, trophies, and certificates by the dignitaries. Chief guest Mr. Kodgi congratulated the winners and commended the institution for nurturing talent and excellence.

 

Mr. Kiran Kumar Kodgi began his address by expressing his admiration for NJC Barkur, an institution that has consistently upheld its reputation as a centre of excellence in education and holistic development. He congratulated the management, faculty, students, and alumni for their collective efforts in shaping the institution’s remarkable legacy.

 

Highlighting the importance of education in building a progressive society, Mr. Kodgi commended NJC’s emphasis on academics, sports, and cultural activities. He remarked that such initiatives play a pivotal role in nurturing well-rounded individuals. Addressing the award winners, he lauded their dedication and hard work and encouraged all students to strive for excellence in their pursuits.

 

The MLA also praised the retiring Principal Prof. Kotraswami for his visionary leadership and selfless service to the institution. He assured his continued support for NJC and called upon the alumni and local community to work collaboratively for the betterment of the college.

 

Heartfelt Nostalgia:

The event turned emotional as alumnus Mr. Dinesh Pai reminisced about his student days at NJC Barkur, particularly expressing gratitude to his former teachers, especially Principal Shri B. Seetarama Shetty, who played a pivotal role in shaping his career. Mr. Dinesh Pai, a distinguished alumnus of the 1980–81 batches and a successful businessman, delivered a heartfelt speech. Reflecting on his nostalgic memories, he described NJC as his second home, a place where he learned the values of discipline, hard work, and perseverance.

 

He fondly remembered his teachers, especially Principal Shri B. Seetarama Shetty, whom he credited for instilling confidence and a sense of purpose in his life. Mr. Pai encouraged current students to make the most of their time at NJC, emphasizing that the lessons learned within its walls would serve them throughout their lives.

 

He concluded by expressing his gratitude to the institution and his commitment to contributing to its growth and development through the alumni association.

 

Honouring the Retiring Principal:

A special segment was dedicated to honouring retiring Principal Prof. Kotraswami for his remarkable contributions. He was felicitated with a traditional shawl, bouquet, and memento by the Old Students Association, Rotary Club Barkur, and other well-wishers.

 

Mr. Karunakar Shetty expressed pride in the achievements of NJC’s alumni, who have excelled in various fields globally. He emphasized the role of the National Old Students Association in maintaining strong bonds with the alma mater and supporting its initiatives.

 

In his speech, Mr. Shetty reiterated the importance of preserving NJC’s values and traditions while embracing modernization in education. He pledged the association’s continued support for the institution’s development and appealed to fellow alumni to contribute actively.

 

Mr. Ganesh Kumar Shetty spoke about the profound impact NJC had on his personal and professional growth. As a proud alumnus, he acknowledged the dedication of the faculty and management in creating a nurturing environment for students.

 

He encouraged students to dream big and pursue their goals with determination and integrity, reminding them that their alma mater would always be a source of strength and inspiration.

 

Honours for Faculty Achievements:

The event also took a moment to celebrate the remarkable achievements of NJC’s faculty members.

 

Mrs. Aishwarya Shetty, Lecturer in Physics and the college’s dedicated NCC Officer, was honoured for her exemplary leadership during a successful training camp in Jabalpur, where she showcased exceptional commitment and inspired cadets to excel in various disciplines.

 

Lecturer in Sanskrit, Mr A. Sridhar Ullittaya an accomplished swimmer and an ace mentor, was recognized for securing second place at the National Swimming Championship recently. His consistent achievements in the sport and his efforts in training and inspiring hundreds of young swimmers were lauded as a testament to her multifaceted talents and dedication.

 

These recognitions highlighted the exceptional contributions of NJC’s faculty, who continue to excel not only in academics but also in diverse fields, serving as role models for the students.

 

Presidential Address – Mr. B. Shantarama Shetty, BES President:

In his presidential address, Mr. B. Shantarama Shetty expressed immense pride in presiding over the Annual Day Celebrations of NJC Barkur, an institution he described as a beacon of excellence. He applauded the faculty for their tireless efforts in shaping students into responsible citizens and future leaders.

 

Mr. Shetty emphasized the importance of balancing academic achievements with extracurricular activities, highlighting how such an approach prepares students for the challenges of the modern world. He lauded the alumni for their outstanding contributions in various fields and their active involvement in the institution’s progress.

 

Addressing the retiring Principal, Prof. Kotraswami, and Mr. Shetty extended his heartfelt gratitude for his dedicated service to NJC. He described him as a guiding light who had led the institution with vision and compassion, leaving an indelible mark on its history.

 

Concluding his speech, Mr. Shantarama Shetty encouraged everyone present to continue supporting NJC Barkur and ensure that its legacy of excellence thrives for generations to come. He expressed his hope that the institution would continue to inspire and empower students to achieve their dreams.

 

Among others Retired Principal B Seetharama Shetty, Shedikodlu Vittal Shetty, Vice presidents of BES, Mr Ashok Kumar Shetty Secretary of BES, Mr Krishna Hebbar Treasurer, Mr Rajarama Shetty, Chairman of Platinum Jubilee Celebrations, Principal Balakrishna Hegde, Secretary, senior teacher Mrs Jyothi Shetty, Secretary and Treasurer of National Old Students Association, respectively, Ret Principal Venkataramana Aithal, newly appointed Principal Mrs Usha Kiran Shetty, scores of past teachers and students were present and witnessed the event.

 

Cultural Extravaganza:

The vibrant cultural program showcased the rich diversity and extraordinary talent of NJC students, captivating the audience with mesmerizing performances in dance, music, drama, and fusion art forms.

 

Headmistress Mrs. Hemavathy P.S. proposed a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all who made the event a super success. Mr Maruti, talented Kannada teacher of the High School perfectly compeered the beautiful event, as Lecturers, teachers cooperated by shouldering various responsibilities and assignments was a perfect teamwork with preparations and supervision involving students leaders and volunteers.

 

The program concluded with a mesmerizing cultural showcase. A three-hour extravaganza of dances, musical performances, fusion drama, and talent displays captivated the audience, leaving them spellbound.

 

Conclusion:

The NJC Barkur Annual Day Celebrations 2024 was not just an event but a celebration of excellence, legacy, and the collective spirit of students, alumni, and the institution. It left everyone present with cherished memories and a deep sense of pride in being associated with NJC.