St. Philomena College gains autonomous status in Puttur

St. Philomena College in Puttur celebrated achieving autonomous status on March 22. This new status was granted by Mangalore University with approval from the State government and the University Grants Commission. The celebrations were inaugurated by Archbishop Peter Machado of Bengaluru, alongside Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha from Mangaluru Diocese. They highlighted the college's significant contributions to education. Former MP Nalin Kumar Kateel unveiled the college’s new emblem and website. Mangalore University Vice-Chancellor P.L. Dharma opened new facilities, including a Board Room and MCA Laboratory. He stressed the importance of autonomous colleges in creating relevant study programs. Ivan D’Souza, a member of the Legislative Council, released a publication titled “Philo Genesis.” Other local leaders, including Dakshina Kannada MP Capt. Brijesh Chowta and Puttur MLA Ashok Kumar Rai, praised the college's academic and cultural achievements. The college also welcomed new staff, including Norbert Mascarenhas as registrar-academics and Vinayachandra as the controller of examinations. K.R. Kavitha, a regional education official, encouraged students to set ambitious goals. The event was attended by various dignitaries, including College Correspondent Rev. Lawrence Mascarenhas and Principal Rev. Antony Prakash Monteiro.