Mangaluru: St Joseph Engineering College celebrates PG Graduation Day – 2026

Media Release

Mangaluru, Nov 14: The PG Graduation Day – 2026 of St Joseph Engineering College (Autonomous), Mangaluru, was held on Saturday, November 14 in the Kalam Auditorium, Academic Block II.

The ceremony witnessed the awarding of postgraduate degree certificates to the class of 2026, comprising 120 MBA graduates, 120 MCA graduates and 3 MBA (IEV) graduates. The programme commenced with the invocation, seeking divine blessings for the graduates as they embarked on a new phase of their professional journeys.

Michael D’Souza, NRI entrepreneur and philanthropist, graced the occasion as the chief guest. Hithesh N Kamath, associate vice president, SwinkPay Fintech Pvt Ltd, and alumnus of the MCA batch 2008–2011, was the guest of honour. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, bishop of the diocese of Mangalore and president of SJEC, presided over the function.

Fr Wilfred Prakash D’Souza, director of SJEC, delivered the welcome address, warmly welcoming the dignitaries, graduates, parents and faculty members. Dr Rio D’Souza, principal of SJEC, introduced the chief guest and the guest of honour.

In his address, Hithesh N Kamath emphasised that academic marks are merely an entry point into an organisation, while hard work, dedication and perseverance lead to success. Highlighting the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence, he stressed the importance of understanding problems rather than merely relying on technology for solutions.

He encouraged graduates to develop independent thinking, take responsibility for their work, dream big and consistently strive towards their aspirations.

The presentation of certificates was the highlight of the ceremony, with postgraduate degrees awarded to the MBA, MCA and MBA (IEV) graduates. Dr Rio D’Souza administered the graduation oath, wherein the graduates pledged to uphold professional ethics and responsibilities.

During the graduate response, Rhea Monalisa D’Souza represented the MBA graduates, while Chaithanya P represented the MCA graduates. They reflected on their academic journey and expressed gratitude to the institution, faculty members and parents for their support and guidance.

Michael D’Souza, in his graduation address, congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to embrace the opportunities ahead with humility, patience and determination. He emphasized that a degree is only the beginning, while character and attitude shape one’s career. He urged them to learn from failures, remain humble in success and develop financial responsibility by learning to earn, save, invest and share.

Faculty achievements and student accomplishments were also recognized during the ceremony. A faculty member who had been awarded a PhD degree was felicitated, along with academic and sports achievers and rank holders. The honours were presented by Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, bishop of the diocese of Mangalore and president of SJEC.

The chief guest, Michael D’Souza, and the guest of honour, Hithesh N Kamath, were felicitated by Bishop Dr Peter Paul Saldanha as a token of appreciation and gratitude.

Delivering the presidential address, Bishop Dr Peter Paul Saldanha congratulated the graduates and emphasised that while technology continues to transform the world, values such as love, kindness, character and collaboration remain timeless. He encouraged lifelong learning, respect for elders, thoughtful communication and self-reflection.

Referring to the Bantu philosophy of Ubuntu, “I am because we are’’; he highlighted the importance of relationships, mutual respect and collective growth. He concluded by blessing the graduates as they embarked on their professional journeys.

Fr Kenneth R Crasta, assistant director, various deans, heads of departments and convenors were also present on the occasion. Dr Sumangala N, convenor of the event, delivered the vote of thanks. Ananth Rohith Bhat and Aishwarya R Acharya compered the programme. The ceremony concluded with the national anthem.