New principal for 170 year-old-school in Belagavi

Reverend Father Eric Mathias at St. Mary’s Church in Belagavi, Karnataka, on June 4. He became the principal of St. Paul High School.

The school was founded in 1856. It is among the oldest Catholic monasteries in North Karnataka.

The Jesuit priest, who has decades of experience in educational institutions, hails from Udupi district. He served as the founder and principal of many educational institutions in Karnataka.

He worked in Raichur, Manvi, Mangaluru, Harihar and Sindagi, among other places. He founded various NGOs and self-help groups. He worked extensively for the welfare of Dalits, economically weaker sections and Devadasi communities through initiatives in education, health, drinking water and other basic amenities.

Fr. Mathias urged young people to dream big and strive for excellence. “No job is too small if done with love and sincerity. Always do your best and inspire others to do the same,” he said.

Outgoing Principal Rev. Fr. Simon Fernandes welcomed Fr. Mathias is in his office. Fr. Fernandes will take over shortly. at St Loyola High School, Margao, Goa.

Later, Fr. Mathias summoned Commissioner of Police Borase Bhushan Gulabrao, Deputy Commissioner of Police NV Baramani and other officers.

Veteran journalist and government-nominated District Minority Committee member Louis Rodrigues, St. John the Baptist Church Parish Pastor Rev. Fr. Lourduswamy and others were present on the occasion.