Sonada, March 16, 2025:  The brothers from Salesian College Sonada organized a full day work camp on 16 March, 05 at Sri Satya Sai Academy, Primary School, Upper Cedar. The camp was an expression of ‘works of mercy’ which Christians are exhorted to engage in  during the season of Lent.

Upper Cedar, is one of the vibrant youth centers of Salesian College Sonada. It has a population  500 families, hailing from different faiths.  The people, in general, are very welcoming and open to the weekly outreach programmes rendered by the brothers. The main work for the day was to demolish the old school building and level the ground to create space for extracurricular activities. The existing primary school has a strength of  40 students, ranging from nursery to class four, with seven teachers.

Upon reaching the school, Mr. Pranay Sarki, the Headmaster, welcomed warmly the work force of 26 brothers, including some of the Claretians. He gave a short instruction before the work began. The headmaster and three more teachers joined the workforce to demolish the old building.

By the end of the day the target of the work camp was achieved. The Headmaster had only words of appreciation for the brothers. He said,  “This is the happiest day for me personally, for the school and for the our village. We will benefit greatly from the hard work and the sacrifice rendered by the brothers. Thank you for your support.” Ms. Sayari Rai, one of the teachers, described day as, “A day where I know that some people are still ready to support us, help us in our task to develop a bright future for our children of this locality. Thank you to Salesian College Sonada and to all the brothers.”

As the camp wounded up, Br. Jacob Rai SDB, the leader of the work camp, expressed their gratitude to the residents of the village for allowing them to extend a helping hand to them.  As a final message he said, “We can do much good in society if we are ready to give a helping when someone is in need”

Sonada, March 10, 2025:  Salesian College Sonada celebrated International Women’s Day on 10 March, 2025 by a short Open Mic Session where the Women Faculty and Support Staff were felicitated  and some of the students could voice their thoughts and feelings.

Introducing the programme of the day, the anchor Ms Anjana Rai said, “A warm welcome to today’s Open Mic, celebrating the power, resilience, and voice of women.”

“Beyond celebrating external achievements, this day is also about recognizing the inner power that every woman carries – the strength of her mind, the wisdom of her heart and the light of her soul” were words of  Ms. Shreha Agarwal, the Coordinator of the Women’s cell in the college. 

The vice-principal, Dr. Jose Puthenpurackel SDB felicitated the women faculty and support staff with a rose flower, specially imported for the occasion.   
The Rector, Fr. Johny Nedungatt SDB, while felicitating the women faculty and staff  referred to the flagship campaign of the Government, Betti Bachao, Betti Padhao which remains as a slogan while many a girl child experience the near impossible situation of finding her way to the school.  There is much more to be done to make the voice of women heard, said the Rector referring to some of the incidents he has personally witnessed. 

As the Open Mic Session progressed some of the students voiced their concern about the present scenario in the country. Ms Aanchal Laver, a second year student from the Department of Commerce,  in addressing the audience said, “But I say to you, women are not bitter because they’re inherently flawed.  Women are bitter because they’ve been forced to endure centuries of oppression, marginalization, and silencing. Let us make a change. Let us start by loving and supporting each other.  Let us celebrate our strengths, our resilience, and our determination… together we can create a world that is more just, more equitable and more loving.”

Sr. Elina Minj FMA, a third year student from the English Department, referring to her personal experience spoke eloquently on the power of women to rise up to any occasion. 

The day’s programme was a fitting tribute and recognition of the women in our society, and a powerful witnessing of who they can be and become.

Fr. Johny Nedungatt SDB

 

Sonada, February 22: The brothers of Salesian College Sonada went on a fun and refreshing picnic to Indreni Waterfall.  The trekking to the waterfall took about one hour and forty minutes. 

Indreni Waterfall, also known as Rainbow Waterfall is a scenic waterfall near Sonada, Darjeeling.  It is located, Kalej Valley Tea Estate, about 8.5 km from the college and is famous for the rainbow-like formations crated by the sunlight hitting the falling water.  The area is surrounded by lush forests and tea gardens, making it a beautiful offbeat destination for nature lovers. 

When the brothers  reached the Waterfall, they were amazed by its beauty and were busy taking photos with the stunning waterfall in the background. “It is nature in pristine form” were the words overheard from some nature lover in the group. At noon, they had  an exciting game of bingo with envious prizes, which everyone enjoyed. Soon after the bingo, Fr. Anjulus, the bursar, brought the much awaited delicious meal from the college.

Bro. Abhay expressing his excitement and  joy at the sight of the cascading waterfall,  said, “In my stay here at Salesian College Sonada for the past five years, I never knew this place  ever existed.”

After lunch, we had a fun dance session to relax and enjoy the moment. The picnic ended with everyone heading back to the community, carrying happy memories of the day.

The trip to Indreni Waterfall was a wonderful break, bringing a change from the routine classes and other day to day activities.

Azimganj,  March 2 – The Don Bosco campus in Azimganj came alive with faith and fellowship as approximately 450 children, youth, catechists, sisters, and priests from the parishes of Azimganj, Polsonda, and Berhampur gathered to celebrate Inter-Parish Catechetical Day 2025. The event, held on March 2, began with participant registration and breakfast, followed by a vibrant catechetical session led by Fr. Kumudo Kuriakose Digal. The interactive session, conducted in Bengali, focused on prayer and liturgy, setting a reflective tone for the day. The highlight of the morning was the Eucharistic celebration, presided over by Rev. Fr. David Mondal, who emphasized the call to be missionary disciples in his homily. The liturgy, enriched by the melodious singing of the Azimganj parish youth choir, saw active participation from all attendees, with readers from Berhampur and the Prayer of the Faithful led by Polsonda’s youth.

The afternoon was marked by spirited stage events, beginning with the veneration of the Word of God, symbolizing the centrality of Scripture in the lives of the faithful. A Catholic Catechism Quiz Competition saw enthusiastic participation from representatives of all three parishes, followed by cultural performances such as group choir, prayer dance, and Bible-based skits. Azimganj Parish emerged as the overall winner, topping the points table, while Berhampur and Polsonda secured the runner-up and third-place positions, respectively. The event also honored catechists with over 25 years of service, recognizing their unwavering dedication to catechesis and evangelization. Fr. Ajay Kumar Sardar, Rector of Don Bosco Azimganj, led the felicitation, expressing gratitude for their lifelong commitment to nurturing faith.

The day concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Fr. Kumudo Digal, Director of the Catechetical Ministry in the Kolkata Province, who acknowledged the efforts of all organizers, including Fr. Motilal Kisku, parish priest of Azimganj, and Fr. Noby George, the administrator. Participants departed with joyful hearts after enjoying tea and snacks, carrying with them lasting memories of a day filled with spiritual enrichment and community bonding. The event not only strengthened the faith of those present but also reinforced the collective mission of the Salesian family to inspire and guide the young in their journey of discipleship.

Malbasey, West Sikkim – March 1, 2025 – Don Bosco School, Malbasey, successfully hosted the Annual Animation Programme for Teachers and Student Leaders of All Roman Catholic Educational Institutes of Sikkim (ARCEIS) - South-West on March 1, 2025. The event, aimed at empowering educators and student leaders, featured facilitation sessions by Mr. Peter Lepcha, PG Coordinator and Assistant Professor of English, and Mr. Patrick Johnson, Deputy Controller of Examinations and Assistant Professor of Management Studies, both from Salesian College (Autonomous), Siliguri. The programme brought together 30 assistant teachers and 100 student leaders, fostering a deeper understanding of effective teaching and leadership practices.

Mr. Peter Lepcha conducted three insightful sessions for teachers, focusing on the privilege of teaching as a vocation, the responsibilities it entails, and the accountability it demands. Teachers actively participated in identifying key classroom challenges and collaboratively discussed practical solutions. Meanwhile, Mr. Patrick Johnson engaged student leaders in three dynamic sessions, emphasizing quality leadership, balancing curricular and co-curricular activities, and understanding leadership roles within the school. The sessions were highly interactive, encouraging participants to reflect on their roles and responsibilities while equipping them with tools to excel in their respective domains.

Fr. Florence Demta, Rector and Principal of Don Bosco Malbasey, expressed his deep satisfaction with the programme’s success and extended heartfelt gratitude to the resource persons for their valuable contributions. The event not only strengthened the professional and leadership skills of participants but also reinforced the collective mission of Roman Catholic educational institutes to nurture holistic development. As teachers and student leaders returned to their schools, they carried with them renewed inspiration and practical insights, ready to make a meaningful impact in their educational communities.

Kalimpong, February 1 – Don Bosco School, Samtar, organized a one-day teachers’ animation program, bringing together educators from Don Bosco schools in Kalimpong and Samthar, as well as six neighboring schools. The session, aimed at enhancing teaching methodologies and fostering professional growth, was animated by Dr. Terrence Mukhiya, Associate Professor and Dean of Salesian College Autonomous, Sonada. The program provided a platform for teachers to exchange ideas, learn innovative strategies, and reflect on their roles as educators in shaping young minds.

Dr. Mukhiya’s session focused on contemporary educational practices, emphasizing the importance of creativity, empathy, and student-centered learning in today’s classrooms. Participants engaged in interactive discussions and activities designed to inspire and equip them with tools to address the evolving needs of students. The program also highlighted the significance of collaboration among educators, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. Teachers expressed their appreciation for the insightful session, noting its relevance and practical application in their daily teaching practices.

The event underscored Don Bosco Samtar’s commitment to empowering educators and promoting excellence in education. By bringing together teachers from multiple schools, the program not only strengthened professional networks but also reinforced the collective mission of nurturing holistic development in students. As the participants returned to their respective institutions, they carried with them renewed enthusiasm and innovative ideas, ready to make a lasting impact in their classrooms and beyond.

Bangladesh, February 28 - A national youth gathering was organized for the dioceses of Bangladesh at Don Bosco Telunjia-Utrail on February 28, 2025!

This event brought together young people from various dioceses across Bangladesh, providing a platform for fellowship, faith, and personal growth!

Kolkata, February 28 - The Salesian Province of Kolkata took the initiative to screen the acclaimed film "Face of the Faceless", the inspiring story of Blessed Sister Rani Maria.

Directed by Shaison Ouseph, the film has won over 90 accolades worldwide and has been praised for its powerful storytelling.

The film was screened for priests, Religious, and students in North, Central, and South Bengal.

The screening was part of a larger initiative by the Salesian Province of Kolkata to promote the film and its message.

On 24 Feb the film was showcased in Bandel, Don Bosco Seminary & Kolkata, Don Bosco Park Circus, on 26 Feb in Krishnanagar, Don Bosco Eng. School, on 28 Feb in Sonada, Salesian College, and on 28 Feb at Siliguri, Don Bosco School and Salesian college, Siliguri.

Kolkata, February 19 – Don Bosco Tech Society and Reach India Trust, in collaboration with ITC – Mission Sunehra Kal, successfully organized Job Fair 2025 at Nitika Don Bosco, creating a dynamic platform for students to connect with potential employers. The event, held on [Insert Date], saw the participation of 20 esteemed companies offering diverse job roles, including Food & Beverage Service, Assistant Chef, Housekeeping, Assistant Beauty Therapist, Customer Care Executive, Electrician, and Warehouse & Logistics. With 175 students participating in the interviews, the fair marked a significant step toward enhancing employment opportunities and bridging the gap between education and industry.

The job fair, which commenced at 11:00 AM, was meticulously organized, ensuring a seamless experience for both students and recruiters. HR representatives from renowned organizations conducted interviews, providing candidates with a chance to showcase their skills and potential. Employers expressed their satisfaction with the talent pool, praising the students’ preparedness and the event’s efficient execution. A majority of the participants have already secured job placements, with final selections expected to be communicated soon.

This initiative by Don Bosco Tech Society and Reach India Trust underscores their commitment to empowering youth with employable skills and connecting them with meaningful career opportunities. The success of Job Fair 2025 highlights the importance of such platforms in addressing unemployment and fostering economic growth. As the students embark on their professional journeys, the event stands as a testament to the transformative impact of collaboration between educational institutions and industry leaders.

Turin,  February 16 – The 29th General Chapter (CG29) of the Salesians of Don Bosco officially commenced on February 16 at the historic Valdocco Mother House, with the Salesian Province of Kolkata proudly represented by three delegates: Fr. Joseph Pauria, Provincial; Fr. Sunil Kerketta, Vice Provincial; and Fr. Tomy Augustine, Delegate and Rector of Salesian College Autonomous, Siliguri. The opening ceremony, led by Fr. Alphonse Owoudou, Chapter Moderator, marked the gathering of 230 provincials and delegates from across the globe, united under the theme, “Passionate about Jesus Christ, dedicated to the young.” The event underscored the Salesians’ commitment to revitalizing Don Bosco’s charism and addressing the pressing challenges faced by youth and marginalized communities worldwide.

Fr. Stefano Martoglio, President of the Chapter, set the tone for the assembly by emphasizing the prophetic role of the Salesians in today’s world. “We must allow ourselves to be shaken by the cries of the poor and respond with both personal and institutional actions,” he urged, echoing Pope Francis’ call for a Church that is both compassionate and courageous. Cardinal Roberto Repole, Archbishop of Turin, reinforced this message during the Eucharistic celebration at the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians, reminding the delegates that their mission is not merely organizational but deeply spiritual—to bring Christ’s gaze to a world in need of justice and hope. The Mayor of Turin, Stefano Lo Russo, also extended his greetings, expressing hope that the Chapter’s deliberations would yield meaningful insights for both the Salesian mission and broader societal challenges.

The Salesian Province of Kolkata’s delegates bring a wealth of experience and dedication to the Chapter. Fr. Joseph Pauria, as Provincial, has been instrumental in guiding the province’s efforts in education, youth ministry, and social outreach. Fr. Sunil Kerketta, Vice Provincial, has focused on empowering marginalized communities, while Fr. Tomy Augustine, with his leadership at Salesian College Siliguri, has championed holistic education and innovation. Their participation reflects the province’s commitment to the global Salesian mission and its readiness to contribute to the Chapter’s goal of “redesigning the Congregation at all levels.” As CG29 unfolds, the Kolkata delegates join their global counterparts in discerning pathways to preserve the flame of Don Bosco’s charism and ensure a brighter future for the young.