Moodbidri: The Department of Social Work, Alva’s College, Moodbidri, joyfully celebrated its Silver Jubilee with a commemorative seminar titled “Social Work for Collective Wellbeing” under the banner ‘Alva’s Reach 2025’ on 26th April 2025. Held at Kuvempu Hall, Degree Block, Sundari Ananda Alva Campus, Vidyagiri, the event was proudly sponsored by the alumni of the Department, showcasing their continued bond and commitment to their alma mater.
The seminar began at 9:30 AM with a warm and meaningful inauguration by Mrs. Shalini Gireesha, an alumna of the department and currently serving as Assistant General Manager – HR & IR at Essae Digitronics Pvt. Ltd., Bangalore. Filled with emotion and gratitude, she expressed her joy in returning to her institution after many years and extended her heartfelt wishes for the success of the event. A symbolic plant-watering ceremony was conducted to mark 25 glorious years of the department’s journey.
Mr. Vivek Alva, Managing Trustee of Alva’s Education Foundation, presided over the programme. In his address, he congratulated the department for successfully organizing the event and lauded its impactful contributions through various community care initiatives.
Dr. Kurian, Principal of Alva’s College, took the audience on a nostalgic journey, fondly recalling the early days of the institution and its impressive growth over the years.
Dr. Sapna, Professor in the Department of Social Work and Convenor of the seminar, delivered the keynote address, elaborating on the objectives of the seminar and the detailed schedule for the day.
The event featured esteemed chief guests and alumni who shared powerful insights. Mr. Sripathy Bhat, Senior Counselor at Father Muller Medical College and Hospital, reflected on how social work education transformed his life, while Dr. Sridevi K. expressed deep gratitude to Chairman Dr. M. Mohan Alva for his financial support during her student days and urged students to serve the underprivileged with compassion and dedication.
Dr. Madhumala K., Head of the Department of Social Work, presented a comprehensive overview of the department’s significant milestones and its contributions to society over the past 25 years. The presence of Mr. Krishnamurthy B., Assistant Professor and alumnus from the 2002 batch, added to the alumni spirit of the event.
Student coordinators Ms. Lavanya (II MSW) and Mr. Andon Pinto (III BSW) actively supported the programme and were also present on the dais, symbolizing the vibrant student leadership nurtured by the department.
Alva’s Reach 2025 was not just a celebration of the past, but a reaffirmation of the department’s enduring vision to build a just and compassionate society through professional social work education and service.
Following the formal inauguration of the seminar, an engaging and insightful panel discussion was held on the theme “Collective Care – Multisectoral Synergy for Social Well-being.” The session was moderated by Mrs. Shalini Girisha, Assistant General Manager – HR and IR at SA Digitronics Pvt. Ltd., and an esteemed alumna of the 2005 batch. With her seasoned experience in industry and HR, she set the tone for the discussion by highlighting the importance of collaboration across sectors in achieving holistic social development.
The first panelist, Mr. Ashoka Vittal, IEEE India Philanthropy Manager and alumnus of the 2007 batch, emphasized “Compassion in Action,” shedding light on the evolving role of philanthropy in addressing complex social issues through sustainable models and inclusive practices.
Dr. Ryan Charles Mathias, Senior Student Counselor at MAHE and 2008 batch alumnus, spoke passionately on “Mentoring Minds, Shaping Futures.” He underlined the critical role of social workers in nurturing youth potential and building resilience among students through empathetic engagement.
Mr. Ganesh Shetty, Panchayat Development Officer and 2005 batch alumnus, offered a ground-level perspective in his talk “Building Self-Reliant Communities.” He shared practical insights into rural development and the empowering role of decentralized governance.
Entrepreneur and 2009 batch alumnus Mr. Sudin Hegde, Co-founder and CEO of Maiora India, inspired the audience with his session “Turning Social Passion into Entrepreneurial Action,” showing how business ventures can be rooted in social responsibility and community impact.
Mr. Suresh Kudumallige, Psychiatric Social Worker at the Shivamogga Institute of Medical Sciences and 2009 alumnus, presented “Mind Matters,” focusing on the essential contribution of social workers in mental health care and advocacy for mental well-being in diverse settings.
The final speaker, Ms. Atmiya J. Kadamba, HR Manager at Jamf, Bangalore, and a 2011 alumna, addressed “Humanizing Workplaces through Social Work Values.” She highlighted the integration of empathy, equity, and inclusivity in corporate environments to foster employee well-being.
Concluding the session, moderator Mrs. Shalini Girisha appreciated the diverse insights shared by the panelists, noting how each of them, in their unique domains, exemplified the spirit of social work in action. She encouraged the audience to embrace intersectoral collaboration, empathy, and innovation in addressing the pressing social challenges of today.
The discussion was a powerful reminder of how social work values can permeate and elevate various professional spheres, fostering a collective movement toward inclusive social well-being.
Alva’s Reach Events 2K25
As part of the seminar, a series of vibrant competitions were held for graduate students from various colleges. The events included Poster Making, Photography, and a Variety Competition. We are proud to announce the winners:
Poster Making
Trisha College, Katpady
Sri Dhavala College, Moodubidire
Photography Event
Government First Grade College, Haleyangady
SDM College, Ujire
Variety Competition
School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya, Mangalore
Dr. MV Shetty College, Mangalore
Overall Championship
Trisha College, Katpady
Silver Buzz
As part of the Silver Jubilee Celebrations, the department organized a special event titled Silver Buzz: Alumni Reflections and Rejoice. This memorable occasion featured an engaging interaction with our esteemed alumni, who shared their experiences, memories, and reflections on their journey with the department. To honour their continued connection and contributions, each alumnus was recognized and presented with a memento—a token of appreciation and a lasting memory of the department’s 25 years of milestones.
Valedictory Program
The valedictory was conducted at 4:00 PM in Kuvempu Hall. The President of the event was Mr. Vivek Alva , Managing Trustee of Alva’s Education Foundation ® , Mr. Balakrishna Shetty, Administrative Officer of Alva’s College, Moodubidire , graced the occasion with his honorary presence.
The Chief Guests for the event were Mr. Sukesh Shetty, Head of Human Resources at eRelayGo Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Bangalore. He also serves as the Vice President of the Alva’s College of Social Work Alumni Association, Bangalore Chapter, and is an alumnus of the 2004 batch. Alongside him was Ms. Esha, Sales and Account Manager -International brand, Amazon, Bangalore. She is the Secretary of the Alumni Association of the Bangalore Chapter and an alumna of the 2015 batch.
Dr. Madhumala K., Head of the Department and Professor of Social Work at Alva’s College, was present on the dais. Mr. Krishnamurthy, Associate Professor, Department of Social Work, Alva’s College, Modbidri, who is also the Secretary of the Alva’s College of Social Work Alumni Association, Central Unit, and an alumnus of the 2002 batch was also present. Dr. Sapna, Seminar Convenor, Professor, and alumna of the 2003 batch from the Department of Social Work, Alva’s College, was also on stage.
A special highlight of the valedictory session was the unveiling and awarding of the Late Shri Hariprasad Memorial Rolling Shield. The unveiling ceremony was conducted by Mr. Dharanendra Kumar, Former Vice President of Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat, along with Mrs. Rashmi Hariprasad, wife of Late Shri Hariprasad, and resident of Gurudeva Forms, Hosangadi.
The Late Shri Hariprasad Memorial Rolling Shield was awarded to students who demonstrated outstanding performance in their fieldwork practicum during their final year. The recipients were Mr. Ranjit P. from 2nd Year MSW and Ms. Amala M.J. from 3rd Year BSW.
Sri Ravi Katpadi, the altruist from Katpadi, Udupi, was felicitated for his outstanding contribution to humanity. Fondly known as the “Monster Man of Udupi,” he is widely recognized for his unique way of serving society. Dressed as a monster during various festive occasions, he collected donations from the public and selflessly contributed the proceeds to support those in need. In recognition of his remarkable humanitarian service, Alva’s College, as part of its Silver Jubilee celebration, honored Sri Ravi Katpadi through the Department of Social Work.
Highlights
The valedictory ceremony was marked by insightful speeches, heartfelt tributes, and a spirit of encouragement and recognition. The Chief Guest, Mr. Sukesh Shetty, shared his thoughts on the seminar, commended the Department of Social Work for its successful organization, and inspired students to maintain professionalism in their everyday lives.
Ms. Esha, an alumna of the department, highlighted the MSW program as a highly promising and fulfilling career. She motivated students by emphasizing that alumni would always stand as a pillar of support, whether for internships or job placements.
Dr. Mukambika G.S , professor in the Department of Social Work, warmly welcomed the gathering. Dr. Madhumala K, Head of the Department, expressed gratitude through the vote of thanks. The program was smoothly anchored by Dr. Shubhakar Anchan, an alumnus of the department, while Mr. Krishnamurthy B, Associate Professor, announced the prizes for the winners.
A touching moment in the program was the unveiling of the Late Shri Hariprasad Trophy, where his brother, Mr. Dharanendra Kumar, paid tribute to Shri Hariprasad’s impactful contributions to society and his unwavering support for the Department of Social Work. Emotionally recalling his close association with Alva’s Education Foundation, he acknowledged the generous support of Dr. M. Mohan Alva towards the village of Hosangadi.
Mr. Balakrishna Shetty spoke about the notable achievements of the Department of Social Work at Alva’s College and glorify its initiatives and community engagement.
Mr. Vivek Alva, president of the program, congratulated all the alumni and participants for their involvement in the seminar. He recognized the humanitarian contributions of Sri Ravi Katpadi and Late Shri Hariprasad, and urged the students to embrace compassion and humanity in their service to society.
The programme was ended with a National anthem and a group photo.
