HOUSE ACTIVITIES

OODALABARI, November 12 — Don Bosco School, Oodlabari, celebrated a significant educational milestone today with the launch of Footsteps, a series of two new value-based textbooks for Classes 9 and 10. Authored by Fr. (Dr.) Aju Kurian, the books aim to guide young learners toward moral integrity, emotional maturity, and social responsibility.

The formal release was conducted by Rev. Fr. John Selvan, SDB, during a ceremony attended by over 1,200 students, faculty, and dignitaries. The first copies were symbolically received by representatives of the teaching faculty and student community, including Rev. Fr. Sunit Kiro, SDB, and student Sivani Bajar.

Addressing the audience, author Fr. (Dr.) Aju Kurian emphasized the power of dedication: "Anything can be accomplished with focus, commitment, and perseverance. When every moment is utilized purposefully, even challenges can be transformed into opportunities for growth and achievement." He urged students to cultivate discipline and determination, stressing that success is the product of consistent effort, not chance.

Dr. Kurian also thanked the school for its support, reaffirming that the Footsteps series is designed to foster holistic growth through engaging, thought-provoking lessons. The launch underscores Don Bosco Oodlabari’s enduring commitment to comprehensive, values-driven education.
-CM Paul, SDB

SILIGURI, Nov. 8: In a resounding affirmation of their holistic educational mission, Salesian schools from North Bengal emerged as frontrunners at the Telegraph Awards for Excellence – North Bengal Chapter, held at the Birla Divya Jyoti Auditorium on November 7–8.

Don Bosco School Oodlabari led the honours tally with five distinctions across diverse categories; meanwhile, Don Bosco School Siliguri followed closely with four accolades—each a testament to the Salesian commitment to academic rigour, social responsibility, and vibrant student life.

Oodlabari’s achievements included Honour Certificates for Excellence in Maintenance and Eco-Friendly Initiatives, Social Service, and Extra-Curricular Activities, along with the coveted “School That Cares” citation. The school also earned a Merit Certificate for Academic Excellence (ICSE & ISC). It was declared the Title Winner for Excellence in Social Service, in recognition of its sustained efforts to nurture compassion, civic engagement, and a culture of care among its students.

Don Bosco School Siliguri was conferred the TTEF Certificate of Honour for Social Service, the IIHM Award for Academic Excellence (ICSE/ISC), and Certificates of Merit for Maintenance and Eco-Friendly Initiatives as well as Extra-Curricular Activities. It was further named the Title Winner for Academic Excellence (ICSE/ISC), underscoring its consistent pursuit of scholastic distinction.

The two-day celebration of excellence brought together leading schools from across the region, recognizing achievements in academics, sports, music, environmental stewardship, and community outreach. Hundreds of students were felicitated with certificates, and scholarships were awarded to support deserving learners from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

The event served as a shining endorsement of the Salesian vision of education—rooted in reason, religion, and loving kindness—which continues to inspire transformative learning and character formation across North Bengal.
-CM Paul, SDB

Jalpaiguri, 18 October 2025 - Don Bosco School, Oodlabari, reached out to the flood-stricken village of Bamandanga — a modest tea garden settlement in Jalpaiguri’s Nagrakata region under Sulkapara Panchayat — where recent floods had left homes in ruins and families in despair, October 18, 2025.
Moved by the scale of devastation, the school community identified 20 of the most vulnerable families and disbursed ₹3 lakhs in direct financial assistance, offering ₹15,000 to each household to help them begin rebuilding their lives. The relief effort was powered by contributions from students, staff, and management, embodying the Don Bosco spirit of compassion in action.
“This is not just charity — it is a lesson in humanity,” said Fr Dr Aju Kurian, Rector and Principal. “When our students witness suffering and respond with empathy, they become builders of a more just and loving world.”
- Fr. CM Paul, SDB

Oodlabari, September 23, 2025 – On September 13 and 14, Don Bosco School, Oodlabari, hosted a transformative annual retreat, engaging 170 students and teachers in a profound spiritual experience. Led by Fr. Philip Terry VC and Mr. Kyle Richter, with support from Sr. Agatha Rai, Sr. Margret, and Sr. Kiran, the retreat featured prayer, worship, and melodious hymns, fostering deep spiritual renewal through well-animated liturgies, the sacrament of reconciliation, and adoration.

The event’s success was bolstered by the school’s support staff, whose tireless efforts ensured seamless arrangements and timely, delicious meals, enriching the overall experience. The retreat not only uplifted the participants but also strengthened the school’s sense of community and faith, leaving a lasting impact on all involved.

Jalpaiguri, 24 August: Don Bosco Oodlabari edged its name into the esteemed category of annual cultural extravaganzas among the Don Bosco schools of West Bengal with the successful launch of Bosco Fizza 2024. The inaugural inter-school cultural fest, held on 24 August, brought together ten schools from the Dooars region, setting the stage for a day filled with vibrant performances and spirited competition.

Participants included ten prominent schools from the Dooars region: Don Bosco School, Siliguri; Don Bosco School, Oodlabari; St. Joseph's School, Bhaktinagar, Siliguri; Mount Carmel School; Auxilium School, Siliguri; Royal Academy School; Holy View Junior School; Trinity High School; Delhi Public School, Fulbari; and Sarwan Memorial High School. Each school showcased its students' artistic and cultural prowess, contributing to a day filled with enthusiastic performances and camaraderie.

The highlight of Bosco Fizza 2024 was the announcement of the winners, with Don Bosco School, Siliguri, Don Bosco School, Oodlabari, and St. Joseph's School, Bhaktinagar, Siliguri emerging victorious in various competitions. The talent on display was met with widespread applause, and the spirit of friendly competition only added to the festivity of the event.

Fr. Tijo Thomas, the Principal of Don Bosco Oodlabari, played a pivotal role in organizing the event alongside the Salesian Community. Reflecting on the success of the event, Fr. Thomas stated, "Bosco Fizza 2024 was envisioned as a platform for students from Siliguri and the Dooars to come together, celebrate their talents, and embrace the diversity that enriches our community. The overwhelming response and the enthusiasm displayed by all participants have truly made this event a memorable one."

Participants and attendees alike praised the event for its seamless organization and the opportunity it provided to students. A participant from St. Joseph’s School shared, “Competing in Bosco Fizza was an incredible experience. It not only allowed us to showcase our skills but also to connect with peers from other schools in the region.”

As the day drew to a close, it was clear that Bosco Fizza 2024 had set a new benchmark for inter-school cultural events in the region. The success of the event has left everyone eagerly anticipating future editions, which are expected to continue growing in scale and popularity.

In the words of a delighted attendee, "Bosco Fizza has brought a fresh wave of excitement and cultural exchange to our schools. We can’t wait to see what the next edition has in store."

With its inaugural success, Bosco Fizza 2024 has not only highlighted the rich cultural talents of the students but also fostered a sense of unity and mutual respect among the schools of the Dooars.

Fr. John Selvan, SDB