Mangaluru: St Aloysius Industrial Training Institute (ITI), Mangaluru celebrated International Women's Day on March 10, 2026, with a series of programmes aimed at promoting women empowerment, financial awareness, skill development, and self-confidence among women staff and students of the institute.
The day-long celebration featured motivational talks, skill-based training sessions, interactive discussions, and cultural activities, creating an engaging and meaningful platform for participants to learn and celebrate the achievements of women.
The programme began at 10:00 a.m. with Ms Swathi K., Senior Manager, Canara Bank NRI Branch, attending as the Chief Guest. She was warmly welcomed by the Principal Mr Roshan D'Souza.
The dignitaries present on the dais included Rev. Fr John D'Souza SJ, Director; Mr Roshan D'Souza, Principal; Lion Rajesh Kamath, President, Lions Club Mangaluru; Mr Wilson N, Training Officer; and Mr Noel Lobo, Training Officer.
In her address, Ms Swathi K spoke about the importance of financial literacy and independence for women and youth. She explained various banking facilities and government schemes that can help individuals start their own businesses and achieve financial stability.
She elaborated on schemes such as Canara Angel Account, Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, and the Prime Minister Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), highlighting the loan and subsidy facilities available for aspiring entrepreneurs.
The session concluded with an interactive question-and-answer segment, during which students raised several queries regarding banking procedures, loans, and financial schemes. The Chief Guest addressed their questions and encouraged them to make use of these opportunities for entrepreneurship.
The second session began at 11:00 a.m. with Mrs Prafulla D'Cruz, entrepreneur, joining the programme as Chief Guest.
In her talk, she emphasised the importance of confidence, independence, and skill development among women. She encouraged participants to develop practical skills that could help them generate income and become self-reliant.
As part of the session, she conducted a hands-on demonstration on preparing paper bags, where students and staff actively participated and learned the process. The practical session provided an opportunity for participants to explore a simple and eco-friendly business idea.
At 1:00 p.m., a series of games and recreational activities were organised for the women staff and students. The games created a lively and cheerful atmosphere on campus, allowing participants to relax and enjoy the celebrations.
A special Women's Day programme organised by the men staff of the institute was held at 3:00 p.m. to honour the women staff and students.
The Chief Guest for this session was Lion Hema Rao, First Vice President, Lions Club Mangaluru.
The event was graced by Rev. Fr John D'Souza SJ, Director; Mr Roshan D'Souza, Principal; Mr Alwyn Menezes, Vice Principal; Mr Noel Lobo, Training Officer; Mr Wilson N, Training Officer; and other staff members of the institute.
The programme was compered by Mr Ravi, while the welcome address was delivered by Mr Shreyas.
During the celebration, the men staff presented cultural performances including songs and dance, as a gesture of appreciation for the women staff and students.
Addressing the gathering, Rev. Fr John D'Souza SJ encouraged women to develop confidence, pursue independence, and continue learning while earning.
Chief Guest Lion Hema Rao also motivated the women to believe in their abilities, strengthen their self-confidence, and learn to protect themselves in society.
Prizes were distributed to the winners of the games, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony to mark the occasion.
Feedback about the programme was shared by Mrs Padmavathi on behalf of the staff and Ms Ankitha on behalf of the students, appreciating the meaningful and engaging nature of the celebration.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mr Anish.
The Women's Day celebration at St Aloysius ITI highlighted the importance of empowering women through financial awareness, skill development, and confidence building, while also celebrating their contributions to society.