The UG and PG Departments of Chemistry, St Aloysius College (Autonomous), Mangaluru organized a one-day Chemistry Fest “Chem-Mystery, Reaching for the Impossible” for Pre-University students on 7 September 2018 in the L.F. Rasquinha Hall, LCRI Block. This programme is sponsored by Star College Scheme, Dept of Biotechnology, Govt. of India. 

Mr Nandakumar V, Chief General Manager (Petchem and R&D), MRPL was the Chief Guest and delivered the keynote address. Rev. Fr Dionysius Vaz SJ, Rector, St Aloysius Institutions presided over the programme. Rev Dr Praveen Martis SJ, Principal inaugurated the programme.  Dr Ronald Nazareth, Co-ordinator of Star College Scheme, Dr Richard Gonsalves, Director of LCRI Block, Convenor, Jyothi Simav Vaz were on the dais.

The Chief Guest Mr Nandakumar in his address described the scope of Chemistry and its impact in everyday life. He explained the discovery of rubber components and its uses. He spoke about the noble laureates and the invention which changed the life of the world.  He briefed the opportunities in the field of research in Chemistry. He also motivated the young minds to invent and discover the mysteries of chemistry. He wished all the participants best of luck.

Rector, Fr Dionysius Vaz in his presidential remarks described the importance of Chemistry in day-today life and also in everything by taking the examples of Chapel Paintings. He spoke on the mystery of chemistry and the discovery of all kinds of scientific inventions.

Principal, Rev Dr Praveen Martis gave a motivational message to the students by seeking inspiration from life of Michael Faraday, who is a chemist, physicist and a great inspiration for all of us.  He narrated how Michael Faraday became a scientist and briefed his inventions. He also said that chemists always think beyond the optimists and pessimists.

Around 380 students from 24 PU Colleges in and around Mangaluru participated in this fest.

Dr. Narahari, the Registrar, Rev Dr Leo D’Souza, Director, Applied Zoology Lab, Dr John E. D’Silva, Director of Xaviour Block and various Deans were present. Relisha Fernandes, II M.Sc. Chemistry compered the programme. Prof. Rajgopal Bhat introduced the Guest and welcomed the gathering. Programme Convenor, Ms Jyothi Simav Vaz proposed the vote of thanks.

The valedictory was held at 3:45 pm. Mr Roque D’Souza, General Manager In-charge, (Pellet Plant Unit) KIOCL Ltd, Mangaluru was the Chief Guest. Prof John Edward D’Silva, Director of Xavier Block presided over the programme. Winners were facilitated by the dignitaries.