Haldia College Celebrates 43 Years of Academic GrowthFrom 16 students in 1983 to nearly 1,200 today; meritorious students felicitated.

Dillip Kumar Pattnaik

KHORDHA, SEPTEMBER 19: Haldia College, which began its academic journey in 1983 with just 16 students, has grown into an institution with nearly 1,200 students, marking four decades of its contribution to higher education in the locality.
The college celebrated its 43rd Foundation Day on its premises with a programme highlighting its evolution, the contributions of its founders and teachers, and the achievements of its students.
The programme was held under the chairmanship of Principal Shantanu Kumar Mishra, who recalled the humble beginnings of the institution and its gradual transformation into an important centre of higher education in the area. He attributed the college’s growth to the collective efforts of its founding members, teachers, non-teaching staff, students and parents.

Former Head of the Department of Odia Dr Minata Kumari Mohanty, who attended the programme as the guest of honour, recalled the challenges faced by the institution during its formative years. She urged students to maintain punctuality, discipline and regularity in their studies and remain committed to their goals.
President of the college governing body and In-charge Sub-Collector Ranjan Kumar Mahanty stressed the need to identify and nurture students’ talents. He advised students to combine academic pursuits with discipline, punctuality and dedication.
Historian Satyabadi Baliyarsingh, the chief speaker, spoke about the historical importance of the Haldia area and traced the development of the college over the years. He underlined the role of education and historical awareness in building a responsible and progressive society.
Former Foundation Secretary and former president of the college Dr Sarat Chandra Mishra, who attended as the chief guest, emphasised the importance of intellectual development among students. He advised them to stay away from intoxicating substances and avoid excessive use of mobile phones. He also called for responsible use of artificial intelligence in education while stressing the importance of independent thinking, reasoning and creativity.
Earlier, lecturer in Odia Sita Patra delivered the welcome address. The programme commenced with the National Anthem presented by students, while Dr.Anshita Bihari of the Commerce Department introduced the guests.
A major highlight of the celebration was the felicitation of meritorious students. The Raghunath Janamangala Trust awarded ₹5,000 and a certificate to Swapna Rani Sahu, who secured the highest marks among successful +2 students in Arts, Commerce and Science. The Hadibandhu-Krishnapriya Memorial Charitable Trust felicitated Pragya Priyadarshini Sahu, the highest scorer in +3 Science, with ₹5,000, a trophy and a certificate. The award was presented by trustee Dr Sarat Chandra Mishra.
Trust secretary Kailash Chandra Mishra and joint secretary Umesh Chandra Mishra also presented ₹1,200 each along with certificates to six students who secured the highest marks in +2 and +3 Arts, Commerce and Science and subsequently enrolled in the college.
Students who had excelled in various competitions organised by the college were also felicitated with trophies and certificates by the guests.
Lecturer Sita Patra proposed the vote of thanks. The celebration concluded with the participation of teachers, non-teaching staff and students.