-Prof.P. Archibald Furtado
Barkur, September 28, 2023* - The Barkur Educational Society (BES) celebrated its Annual General Body Meeting (AGM) with great enthusiasm and pride, marking a year of significant achievements and a Platinum Jubilee celebration held in January 2023. The event took place at the 'College Kala Mandira' on Thursday at 3:30 PM, bringing together BES members from far and wide.
The AGM was presided over by Mr. B Shantarama Shetty, the President of the BES Trust, who commenced the proceedings with a moment of silent reflection and extended a warm welcome to all attendees. Mr. Shetty outlined the agenda for the meeting, setting the stage for the discussions that would follow.
As per the agenda, Mr. B Seetarama Shetty, the Secretary of the BEC and former Principal, presented the Annual Report, highlighting the outstanding academic performance across all five educational institutions under BES administration. He expressed gratitude to the heads, principals, teaching and non-teaching staff, parents, and students for their unwavering support in making the past year a resounding success.
Each head of the five institutions presented their reports and requirements, assuring members that their needs would be given due attention.
Mr. Rajaram Shetty, the Chairman of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations, paid special tribute to the National PU College, the flagship institution of BES, which has been providing quality education for over 75 years. He acknowledged the instrumental role of BES and its old students in transforming the institution into a top-notch educational facility.
The Treasurer, Mr. A. Krishna Hebbar, presented a comprehensive Statement of Account, including Audited Income & Expenditure and Balance Sheet for the period ending March 31, 2023, which received unanimous approval from the attendees.
The AGM also welcomed approximately 20 new Life members, injecting fresh energy and enthusiasm into the BES family, which prides itself on being truly national in both its essence and spirit.
To face new challenges, the members elected a 'New Administrative Council,' comprising experienced individuals who have paved the way for younger members to invigorate the trust. The newly elected council includes President Mr. B Shantarama Shetty, Vice Presidents Mr. Shedikudlu Vittal Shetty and former Principal Mr. B Seetharama Shetty, General Secretary Mr. Ashok Kumar Shetty, Treasurer Mr. A. Krishna Hebbar, and Joint Secretary Mr. Shankar Shetty.
Several correspondents were also appointed, ensuring the seamless operation of BES's educational institutions, with a strong Executive Council formed to provide representation for old students, all communities, and educational experts.
Auditors for the forthcoming year, M/s P M Hegde & Company of Mangalore, were re-appointed, ensuring financial transparency.
Before the AGM, the 'NJC Platinum Jubilee Celebrations Committee' held a crucial meeting under the leadership of Chairman Mr. Rajaram Shetty, reviewing the various projects undertaken to commemorate this historical milestone.
As a significant part of the meeting, the 'Amrutha Sinchana' souvenir, a 175+ page monument showcasing the history of BES, was distributed. Mr. Jayaram Shetty, the Chairman of the Souvenir Committee, provided insight into its creation and thanked all contributors for their invaluable support.
In an emotional address, Mr. Rajaram Shetty, President of the Platinum Jubilee Celebrations Team, praised the 'Amrutha Sinchana' as a monumental document preserving the legacy of BES for generations to come.
Mr. Manjunath Bhat, Secretary of NJC-PJCC, welcomed the gathering and discussed the challenges ahead, particularly focusing on maintaining the quality of education and addressing declining student enrollment.
The Editorial Team, led by Dr. Jagdeesh Shetty, Hon. Editor Prin. U Kottraswmy, and Editor in Charge Prof P. Archibald Furtado, was specially recognized for their efforts in producing the souvenir.
The Barkur Educational Society's AGM was not only a reflection of its rich history but also a testament to its commitment to providing quality education for generations to come.