Puttur, 23 September 2026: Students’ Council of St. Philomena Autonomous College, Puttur, for the academic year 2026-27 was inaugurated at the college’s Silver Jubilee Auditorium on Saturday.
Former Vivekananda College Principal H. Madhava Bhat inaugurated the programme by lighting the ceremonial lamp. Addressing the students, Mr. Bhat said a leader must first be able to influence oneself before trying to influence others.
He said a leader should also be willing to learn from others. A good leader, he added, should also know how to be a good follower. “A leader must know what is right,” he said.
Mr. Bhat stressed the importance of coordination and cooperation in leadership. He advised student leaders to focus on development and continuous growth rather than trying to bring about revolutions.
He said life is made up of small things and reminded the students that even a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.
College Principal Rev. Dr Antony Prakash Montero administered the oath of office to the newly elected Students’ Council office-bearers. He also delivered the presidential address.
Dr Montero said relationships and interpersonal communication today are often influenced by conditions, attraction and personal needs. He said student leaders should reflect on the nature of their communication with their followers. “Selfish people can never become leaders,” he said.
He urged student leaders to improve their communication skills, respond to their surroundings and remain sensitive to the feelings of others. He also encouraged them to become better human beings by developing a selfless attitude.
Church Pastoral Council Vice-President Roshan Lasrado, Parent-Teacher Association President Satish Naik Kadaba, Student Welfare Officers, Dean and Head of the Department of Business Administration Dr Radhakrishna Gowda, and Assistant Professor of Commerce Spearl Fiona Pereira were present.
Newly elected Students’ Union office-bearers were felicitated in the presence of Satish Naik Kadaba and Alumni Association Secretary Thejaswi Bhat. Students’ Union Secretary and third-year B.Com. student Jayakrishna E. introduced the inaugural speaker.
Students of the Performing Arts Association rendered the prayer. Students’ Union President and third-year BBA student Likhith J.D. delivered the welcome address. Students’ Union Joint Secretary and third-year B.Sc. student Nishmitha Rai proposed the vote of thanks. Third-year BBA student Priya M.K. compered the programme.
Keywords: St Philomena College Puttur, Students Council Puttur, H Madhava Bhat, student leadership, Puttur college news, Antony Prakash Montero, Puttur News Today, Citizen News Puttur