Dear Friends,
It is with great joy and gratitude that I pen this message at a pivotal moment in the life of
St. John’s College of Arts and Science. More than just an academic institution, St. John’s
is the realization of a vision—a vision born out of love for the people of the coastal belt
of Kanyakumari District and a desire to bring higher education to the underserved.
This noble journey began with a heartfelt question: “How can we bring higher education
to those who need it most?” It was a question answered through the deep commitment of
two visionary priests—Rev. Fr. V. John Bosco and Rev. Fr. Albin Roby. Through the Jan
Vriend Development Centre (JVDC) Trust, they labored with unwavering dedication to
bring this dream to life, drawing inspiration from the compassionate mission of Rev. Fr.
Jan Vriend of the Netherlands. His enduring legacy of service to the poor and
marginalized through education and faith became the cornerstone of this institution’s
founding.
Launched in 2005 after years of prayer, planning, and perseverance, the college has since
become a beacon of learning, empowerment, and spiritual values. It has shaped lives,
uplifted communities, and stood as a testament to what can be achieved when vision
meets faith.
With deep humility and immense gratitude, I share that the administration of St. John’s
College has now been graciously entrusted to the Diocese of Kottar. This transition,
marked by generosity and unity of purpose, reflects the noble spirit in which this
institution was built.
We express our heartfelt thanks to Fr. John Bosco and Fr. Albin Roby for their selfless
leadership, vision, and trust. Their decision to hand over the college freely and in full
faith ensures that its mission will not only continue but also thrive under the spiritual care
and guidance of the Diocese.
As we move forward, let us embrace the words that guide us in this moment: Let this
college be a cradle of wisdom, a sanctuary of values, and a lighthouse of hope for
generations to come. Education is a sacred service. When guided by faith and
compassion, it becomes a force that transforms not just individuals but entire
communities.
With this renewed beginning, we pledge our continued commitment to academic
excellence, faith-based values, and community upliftment. We move ahead with faith in
our hearts, clarity in our mission, and hope in our eyes.
Thank you for walking this journey with us. Let us continue forward—together.
Warm regards,
Most Rev. Dr. Nazarene Soosai
Chairman
St. John’s College of Arts and Science
