Esther Christi Tom (Senior Category) and Medha Shaijan (Junior Category) emerged winners at the Msgr Antony Kozhuvanal Memorial State-Level Speech Competition, organised by the St. Thomas Academy for Research and Training (START), the higher education and training centre of the Thamarassery Diocese.

The competition was held in memory of Msgr Antony Kozhuvanal, Founder Director of START, whose vision focused on the holistic and integral formation of children and youth.

From among hundreds of participants who took part in the preliminary round held in December 2025, 20 finalists were selected to compete in the grand finale. The concluding session was inaugurated by Msgr Joyce Vayalil, Vicar General of the Thamarassery Diocese.

In the Senior Category, with the topic “Overseas Migration and Education: Hope and Challenges,”

• First Prize: Esther Christi Tom (Padathukadavu, Thamarassery Diocese)

• Second Prize: Br. Sebin Maranatt (Idukki Diocese, Aluva Mangalapuzha Seminary)

• Third Prize: Ancy V.A. (Ondayangadi, Mananthavady Diocese)

In the Junior Category, on the topic “Faith and Morality in the Digital Age,”

• First Prize: Medha Shaijan (Chakkittappara, Thamarassery Diocese)

• Second Prize: Alan Varghese (Paroppady)

• Third Prize: Raphela Christi Tom (Padathukadavu)

Cash prizes of ₹15,000, ₹10,000, and ₹5,000 along with mementos were awarded to the first three winners in each category.

The programme featured addresses by Rev. Dr Subin Kizhakkeveettil, Director of START; Fr Ronnie Paul Kavil, Director, Bethany Renewal Centre; motivational speaker P. T. Abraham; Rev. Sr Stella Maria SABS, Principal, Balussery Jayarani Public School; and Johnson P. Abraham. All finalists who participated in the grand finale received special appreciation gifts.