Mangaluru: The classes for the First Year B.E. students at St Joseph Engineering College (SJEC), Vamanjoor, Mangaluru for the academic year 2016-2017 were inaugurated on August 1, 2016 in the Kalam Auditorium of Academic Block II.

The programme began with a prayer song after which Dr Rio D’Souza, Vice-Principal, SJEC welcomed the gathering and said that he was overjoyed to see the number of students and parents gathered. He also thanked the parents and the guardians for choosing the college for their wards’ education.

The programme was symbolically inaugurated by the chief guest and others dignitaries by lighting the lamp.

Dr Joseph Gonsalvis, Principal, SJEC then spoke on the rules and regulations, facilities and amenities provided by the institution.

The Chief Guest on the occasion, Preetham D’Souza, First Officer at Jet Airways, an alumnus of SJEC from the Class of 2009 in the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, said that joining SJEC changed his life.

“I sat along with my dad in this very auditorium 11 years ago. My life changed after I joined this college. You all new students are taking their first step today. Nothing shall deter you. The tough journey will test you. You yourself are the author of your life. If you decide to do something, do it. Do not stop,” he said.

He advised the new students to be active and be engaged in various college activities.

“Please aim for excellence and knowledge and not high marks. Every student over here is going to be mature enough when they leave SJEC. The education in this institution will prepare every student for life,” he added.

Advising the students to take their studies as their first jobs, he told them to treat their parents as their bosses. He also asked them to follow three Hs in life that is Honesty, Hardwork and Happiness. He said that one should be happy within oneself and should be smiling always.

The top scorers were honored by the dignitaries on the occasion.

Rev Fr Rohith D’Costa, Assistant Director, SJEC, in his presidential address said that the dedication and commitment of Preetham had made him reach the heights he was today.

“As you begin, you will face failures. But do not lose heart. Learn from your mistakes and you will surely achieve your goal. Be focused with a clear decision on what you want to do. You can overcome your weaknesses. Only hardwork and a sincere heart will make you a better person,” he said.

“Parents, please take care of your wards with occasional visits to the college and enquire about their progress in studies and other activities, he added.

Dr Ramananda HS delivered the vote of thanks.

Teaching and non-teaching staff, students and others were present on the occasion.