Event Details

Sacred Heart College, located amidst the serene landscapes of Tirupattur, celebrated its 73rd  College Day in a manner befitting its illustrious legacy. The event, held on February 10th, 2024, at the College Grounds, at 5 p.m., witnessed a gathering of students, faculty, alumni, and esteemed guests.

The event commenced with a soulful prayer song sung by the college choir, led by Rev. Dr. Gandhi Kallarasan, the Campus Minister. It was followed by inspiring words from Rev. Dr. Praveen Peter, SDB, the Rector and Secretary, who welcomed and introduced the Chief guest and Guest of Honour. Rev. Dr. D. Maria Antony Raj, SDB, the Principal, then presented the college's achievements and initiatives, emphasizing the transformative power of education.

Thiru. S. Peter Alphonse, Chairman representing the State Minorities Commission, Tamil Nadu, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, underscoring the college's commitment to diversity. He delivered a thought-provoking address. He commenced his speech by delving into the rich tapestry of India's constitutional history, emphasizing how leaders have shaped the nation's republic. He underscored the symbiotic growth of Sacred Heart College alongside the Indian Republic, tracing back to its inception. He painted a vivid picture of India's educational landscape in 1908, recounting that only 7 out of 100 individuals were literate then, contrasting starkly with the 87% literacy rate recorded in the 2011 population census.

Delving deeper into history, he touched upon India's colonial past, reflecting on the influence of various rulers over the centuries. He highlighted the pivotal role played by Christian missionaries in igniting the flame of education, with Queen Mary College being among the pioneering institutions that championed minority education. He lauded Sacred Heart College for its commitment to gender equality, with 48% of its students being women. He shed light on the challenges faced by marginalized communities, emphasizing the importance of inclusive education in an ever-evolving world.

The Chief Guest concluded his address with a reflection on the rapid advancements in technology, citing Elon Musk's Neural link project as an example. He cautioned against the unequal distribution of technological resources, expressing concerns about the ability of the underprivileged to compete in a digitally-driven society. Despite these challenges, he commended Sacred Heart College for its exemplary performance, ranking among the top 50 colleges in India. He expressed pride in the institution's contribution to Tirupattur's educational landscape, affirming its pivotal role in shaping future leaders.

Rev. Dr. C. Antony Raj, SDB, Former Rector and Principal of Sacred Heart College, Tirupattur, added to the reverence as the Guest of Honour. He delivered a heartfelt address reflecting on his personal journey, expressing gratitude for the role of faith in navigating life's challenges. He credited God's benevolence for guiding him through difficult times, reaffirming his belief in prioritizing spirituality above all else. Drawing parallels between his own experiences and the ethos of Sacred Heart College, he emphasized the institution's commitment to holistic development and spiritual nourishment. He extolled the virtues of compassion and empathy, urging students to prioritize their inner growth alongside academic pursuits.

The felicitation of meritorious students and staff followed, acknowledging their dedication and perseverance. The cultural segment, featuring captivating performances by students, added vibrancy to the evening.

Rev. Dr. D. Shanmugam, SDB, the Vice-Principal (Admin, Shift II), in his Vote of Thanks, expressed gratitude to all contributors, reaffirming the college's spirit of unity and fellowship. Special acknowledgment was extended to Rev. Dr. G. Theophil Anand, the Vice-Principal (Shift I Admin), for his invaluable contributions to the event's success.