CASK President inaugurates Civil Services Training Programme – Foundational Course

The programme was inaugurated by Dr Eric Christopher Lobo, MSc, PhD, FIFCC, Professor of Biochemistry, Yenepoya University, who was also the chief guest. He lit the ceremonial lamp and delivered the keynote address, in which he encouraged students to build a strong foundation, discipline and a spirit of continuous learning for competitive examinations and public service careers.

Roy Castelino, Trustee, Sandesha Foundation, and Coordinator, Mangalore IAS, gave the welcome address. He also launched the school uniform and identity cards for the students. Laveena Pinto, Manager, Mangalore IAS, introduced the chief guest. Fr. Roshan Rosario, Director, Sandesha Foundation, felicitated Dr Lobo.

Santosh Kumar S., Founder, Mangalore IAS, spoke about the institution and the aims of the Foundational Course. He stressed the value of introducing civil services-oriented learning early and of making students aware of the range of competitive examinations and careers open to them.

Ronald Mendonca, Secretary, CASK, represented the Catholic Association of South Kanara at the inauguration of the Civil Services Training Programme – Foundational Course, organised by Mangalore IAS – A School for Civil Services. The programme was held at the Sandesha Foundation, Premnagar, Bajjodi, Mangaluru, on Friday, October 2, 2026.

CASK’s presence at the inaugural

Mr Mendonca attended the programme as CASK’s representative, showing the Association’s support for initiatives that help young people prepare for careers in public service. The source report does not record any specific role for him on the programme, so add one here if he took part in the felicitation or any other segment.

Interactive session

After the inaugural, Santhosh Rao, Director, Mangalore IAS, led a two-and-a-half-hour interactive session. The students listened with keen interest and enthusiasm, and Mr Rao wished them a bright and successful future.

A timely occasion

The programme was especially significant because 2026 marks the centenary of the Public Service Commission, the forerunner of the UPSC, which was set up on October 1, 1926 (see sources below).

About the Foundational Course

The course gives high school, PUC and degree students early exposure to civil services preparation, general awareness, current affairs and aptitude, building a base for future competitive examinations.

Prof Suresh Kateel, Associate Professor of History (Retd.) and Faculty, Mangalore IAS, proposed the vote of thanks. The programme ended with the National Anthem, followed by refreshments and fellowship.