Valedictory Function of the Centenary Celebration of St. Berchman’s College Changanassery, Kerala

I touch and salute the Holy feet of Bharat Mata the Most Powerful and the Most Merciful. On the occasion of the Valedictory Function of the Centenary Celebration of St. Berchman’s College, the dignitaries who are sharing dais with me Hon’ble Governor of Kerala, Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar Ji; Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas & Tourism, Govt. of India, Shri Suresh Gopi Ji, Hon’ble Minister for Cooperation, Ports and Devaswom, Kerala Government, Shri V. N. Vasavan Ji; Hon’ble Member of Parliament of Lok Sabha Shri Kodikunnil Suresh Ji,  and MLA of Changanaserry, Shri Job Michael Ji, Archbishop of Changanasserry, Most Reverend. Mar Thomas Tharayil Ji and Patron of St. Berchmans College; Principal Rev. Prof. Dr. Teddy Kanjooparampil Namaskaram to all!

A 100-year-old college is not just a campus of classrooms and corridors. For one hundred years, this institution has silently yet steadily contributed to nation building. When our country was under colonial rule, your historic college was a centre of intellectual awakening.

Hundred years is not merely a measure of time. It is a saga of dreams nurtured, challenges overcome, values upheld, and generations empowered. Since its founding in 1922, this college has stood as a guiding light of knowledge and character, shaping minds and shaping the nation. we reflect upon the last century, we see before our eyes stories of young students who entered these gates with hope in their eyes and left with confidence in their hearts. Doctors, engineers, teachers, scientists, administrators, artists, entrepreneurs — countless alumni who have carried the light of this institution into the world. I am glad to know that Graduates from the college include Judges of Supreme Court and High Court, numerous high-ranking civil service officers, scientists, Vice-Chancellors, political leaders and Ministers including former CM of Kerala Late Shri Oomen Chandy Ji.

Education is not merely about degrees; it is about discipline, dedication, and direction. For a hundred years, this college has not only imparted knowledge but also cultivated integrity and compassion. As our nation moves forward towards the vision of Viksit Bharat, under the leadership of our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shriman Narendra Modi Ji, institutions like yours will play a crucial role. The responsibility of shaping responsible citizens, innovators, and leaders rests upon centres of learning such as this.

I am told that the motto of the college – Caritas Vera Nobilitas which translates into Charity is nobility. On this note, I recall a Thirukural by the great Tamil saintly poet Thiruvalluvar இலனென்னும் எவ்வம் உரையாமை ஈதல்  குலனுடையான் கண்ணே யுள.

It teaches that true nobility does not lie in birth, wealth, or status. It lies in the spirit of giving. A person may not be rich, yet if he does not complain about his poverty and still shares whatever little he has, he is truly great.  Students, we always associate Charity with money, but charity is not limited to money. It can be a kind word, emotional support, time and effort, knowledge and guidance. Even the smallest act of giving, when done with compassion, reflects inner richness. I always say, living for oneself is not bad but living only for oneself is bad. We must always give back to the society our good deeds – only then the society will prosper. Wherever you may go after completing your college education, always keep your college’s motto in mind. The act of giving transforms both the receiver and the giver. Wealth may decrease by giving, but dignity and honour will always increase.

Today, as we celebrate the past, we must also prepare for the future. The world is changing rapidly — driven by technology, artificial intelligence, sustainability goals, and global interconnectedness. But while technology evolves, values such as kindness & goodwill for all, must remain constant.         Excellence, ethics, and empathy must continue to define this institution. To the students present here: you are the second century of this college. The next hundred years will be written by your ideas, your courage, and your commitment. Dream big. Work hard. Stay rooted in values. Let this institution not only be your alma mater but your lifelong inspiration.

To the faculty: you are the torchbearers of wisdom. Your dedication ensures that this college remains not just relevant but remarkable. To the alumni: you are the living legacy of this institution. Your achievements are the pride of this campus. As we step into the next century, let us pledge that this institution will excel, transform, and lead. May this centenary celebration mark not an end of a hundred years, but the beginning of a new era of greater glory. Let the next century shine brighter than the last.

Thank you.
Jai Hind.
Long Live Mother Bharat.