St. Xavier's College, Thumba, Celebrates its First-Ever Graduation Day

In a historic moment befitting the diamond jubilee of St. Xavier’s College, Thumba, the college hosted its inaugural graduation ceremony, X’Laurea ’24, on November 1, 2024. The event marked a new chapter in the college's sixty-year legacy, standing as a grand tribute to academic achievement and the Xaverian spirit of excellence.

Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Divya Thomas, Coordinator of X’Laurea ’24, and with the tireless efforts of a dedicated team of staff and student volunteers, the ceremony was meticulously organized and gracefully executed. The Aikara Auditorium was filled with proud graduates, faculty, and an enthusiastic gathering of family members and friends, creating an atmosphere brimming with joy and accomplishment.

The academic procession, a dazzling highlight, stirred the hearts of all present. The band from Loyola School, Sreekaryam led the way with rhythmic precision, setting an inspiring tone for the ceremony. Marching in unison, the NCC Army and Navy cadets followed, embodying discipline and dignity. A line of dignitaries, including Chief Guest, Sri Jacob Punnose IPS, the Manager, Principal, Vice Principals, Bursar, and PTA President, along with the esteemed Heads of Departments, joined the procession. Finally, the class toppers of the Batch of 2024 stepped forward, symbolizing the pinnacle of dedication and hard work.

The programmme opened with a heartfelt prayer song by the college choir, followed by an inspiring welcome address by Dr. Nisha Rani, Principal of St. Xavier’s College. In his presidential address, Dr. (Fr.) Sunny Jose SJ, Manager, eloquently spoke of the legacy of the college and its commitment to shaping future leaders. Dr. (Fr.) Biju Joy SJ introduced the esteemed Chief Guest, Sri Jacob Punnose IPS, former Director General of Police and proud alumnus. Mr Punnose, in his stimulating speech, reminisced about his days as a student of the first batch at St. Xavier’s, Thumba. With nostalgia and warmth, he recounted the college’s formative years and how they shaped his journey. He encouraged the graduates to dream big and approach life with resilience and positivity, urging them to work for transformative changes in society with integrity, justice, and compassion. Mr. Sunil John S., President of the PTA, delivered a heartfelt felicitation speech, commending the college’s dedication to its students and the vital role of the PTA in supporting and initiating significant events like X’Laurea ’24.

The ceremonial tasseling, led by S/Lt. Rajesh Martin, Vice Principal, symbolized the official conferral of graduate status, while the Vice Principal, Mrs. Reshmi Poulose, led the graduates in the Graduation Pledge, solidifying their commitment to uphold the values instilled during their time at St. Xavier's. Ms. Varna S., a representative of the graduating class, delivered a poignant Graduation Speech, capturing the collective aspirations and gratitude of her peers.

As the day drew to a close, students, faculty, and staff gathered for group and departmental photos, preserving the memories of this extraordinary day. With refreshments and a spirit of camaraderie, X’Laurea ’24 concluded as a day to remember, a celebration of dreams fulfilled, and the beginning of new journeys.

This monumental event has set a proud precedent for future graduations at St. Xavier's College, Thumba—a legacy of academic brilliance, discipline, and dedication that will continue to inspire generations to come.