By Fr Mayank Parmar for BISMumbai

In a significant development, Don Bosco Boarding, Kawant, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ashadeep Human Development Centre, Anand District, Gujarat, on 20 October 2023. The MoU marks the initiation of the ‘Pathdeep’ programme, specifically designed for the students in Grades 8 and 9. This collaborative effort aims to equip students with the essential skills required for career development and is aligned with the National Education Policy 2020.

The Don Bosco boarding school, renowned for its Salesian Education system and innovative teaching methods, has consistently produced students who excel in various fields. The ‘Pathdeep’ programme is set to build on this tradition by focusing on life skill development, critical thinking, innovation, communication, teamwork, and experiential learning—key components of the NEP-2020. Additionally, the programme incorporates the Career Marg Module of the Don Bosco Education System.

Under the terms of the MoU, the Pathdeep team will conduct ten monthly workshops, each spanning five hours, along with ten days of a summer camp and a five-day Diwali camp. The first of these workshops took place on 21 and 22 October 2023.

The chief trainers for the programme, Mr Ratilal Jadav and Mr Hasmukh Christian, represented the Ashadeep team during the inaugural workshop. The training sessions covered various skill-based topics, including goal setting, methodology, planning, SWOT analysis, motivation, successful role models, study techniques, and memorization methods, all presented through engaging formats such as PowerPoint presentations, educational movies, and group discussions.

During the introduction session on the first day, Fr Mayank Parmar, the Rector, expressed his appreciation for the trainers, emphasising the invaluable opportunity for students to learn from highly sought-after experts. He encouraged students to actively participate, ask questions, and make the most of this unique learning experience.

In a closing statement on the last day, Fr Rixson Nigrel, the Principal, who had been a constant presence during the training sessions, commended the trainers for their dedication. He urged the students to put their newfound knowledge into practice, emphasising the importance of implementing the skills they had acquired.

Sr Rohini Jadav OP, who was present with the girls of the Dominican Sisters’ boarding school, praised the sessions as excellent and tailored to the children's needs, making them accessible and relatable.

This collaboration between Don Bosco, Kawant, and Ashadeep promises to provide students with valuable skills and knowledge to prepare them for a successful future.