‘Be Peacemakers’ – unfolding at DBHS, Naigaon

Day 1

Don Bosco High School and Junior College, Naigaon, hosted their first-ever collective exhibition ‘BE PEACEMAKERS’ on the 26th of November 2022, to showcase the talents of their students whilst fostering an atmosphere of peace and well-being.

Conceptualised by Vice Principal, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Fernandes, sdb, this mega event which takes place from 10 am to 5:30 pm on two consecutive days, is indeed the fruit of meticulous planning and execution. The management led by Rev. Fr. Dominic Martis (Executive Director) spared no effort towards this endeavour. Tr. Dorothy Fernandes (Head of Exhibition Management), Tr. Supriya Rodrigues (Exhibition Coordinator) and the various committee members shouldered every responsibility commendably.

The exhibition was inaugurated on the 26th of November 2022, by eminent Senior Scientist (Retd.) at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, ISRO, Mr. David Samikkannu Antuvan. Other dignitaries were also present.

The felicitation programme comprised of dance, song and skit. The Peace Prayer and lighting of the lamp ushered brilliance and a sense of well-being into the proceedings. As one body, the entire audience repeated the peace pledge with outstretched hands.

Mr. Antuvan addressed the gathering and expressed his gratitude. He added, that his mind remained ignited towards his work for 38 years and gave the audience invaluable information about space and the use of satellites for peaceful/civilian purposes. He summed up by saying that ‘peacemakers’ are the need of the hour in today’s fashionable and commercial world.

“The exhibition is a perfect blend of science and spirituality. Science and faith go hand in hand. The collaborative work done by the parents, teachers and students shows excellent visualisation,” said Mr. Antuvan, Chief Guest.

One of the main themes ‘Care for Creation’ got its inspiration from the encyclical letter ‘Laudato Si’ by Pope Francis on environmentalism, ethics, faith, safeguarding creation and the right to life. It also speaks of eco-spirituality i.e loving God and creation.

“Nature is the art of God. It speaks softly, you have to listen to it carefully,” said Tr. Supriya Rodrigues (Exhibition Co-ordinator)

Various projects/models on ‘life under water and on land’ adorned the corridors and classrooms.

“It is a wonderful partnership between students, teachers and parents. I have never seen children so fully involved. The exhibits are so beautiful and the exhibition very well organized,” said Sara Barboza, a parent.
Parents and students could also visit the exhibits based on the life of our patron saint Don Bosco and could avail of some peace and even pray in the serene Prayer room.

Don Bosco’s educational philosophy has guided us through the process. This was evident as joy, laughter, team-spirit and a family-like atmosphere prevailed while setting up the exhibition and on day 1 too.

“I greeted so many people and they greeted me back. I had an opportunity to spread love and my shyness is slowly going away,” said Ryan Messi from Std. VIII, stationed in the room illustrating the life of Don Bosco.

The Chief Guest, Mr. Antuvan, conducted 3 sessions with students of different levels from standards VII – XII. He gave students an insight into his humble beginnings and said that he studied passionately. The Almighty guided him through it all. He implored students to do the same.

There was a constant stream of visitors at DBHS, Naigaon. Students from schools in the neighbourhood also visited. Principals from neighbourhood schools were taken on a tour through the institution by the Vice Principal.

“Hats off to the staff and students for their work and commitment. With barely a month’s intimation, they were able to make this grand event happen. Visitors and parents were captivated by the composure, confidence, conviction and knowledge, of the students, all on clear display.” said Tr. Dorothy Fernandes – Head of Exhibition Management.

We thank the parents who have been co-operative and have had such a positive attitude towards this endeavour.
Ultimately, we have to thank the Almighty for sending his blessings and graces upon us. It was truly a fruitful and satisfying day.

by Gail D. Fernandes
(Teacher-Mentor)