by Dorothy Fernandes for BIS Mumbai

To foster a strong alumni network, support current students, and enhance the school’s community engagement, the Past Pupils Association was reinstated at Don Bosco high school & Jr. College, Naigaon East, Mumbai, India, on August 15, 2024.

The meeting commenced with a prayer seeking the Almighty's blessings. Following this, the Rector, Fr Dominic Martis, addressed everyone, highlighting the importance of their ongoing involvement. 

Tr Dorothy Fernandes, Supervisor of the Secondary Section, presented the Vision Statement, Preamble, and a brief history of Don Bosco’s Past Pupils Association. 

The Principal, Fr Anthony Fonseca, spoke to the alumni about the formation of the Association and outlined how they could support the school through mentorship, providing resources, and offering help to the marginalised. He then emphasized the necessity of establishing an Executive Committee. Given that no such committee had existed for many years, the members of the Past Pupil’s Association were chosen to serve in an interim capacity until an official committee could be elected.

To initiate the operation of the association’s activities, the chosen committee members are:

Chairman: Rector – Fr Dominic Martis

Delegate for DBHS, Naigaon – Fr Anthony Fonseca

Vice-President – Mr Shreyansh Dubey

Secretary – Mrs Pooja Nevis

Joint-Secretary – Mr Saunskaar Parab

Treasurer – Mr Lucas Lopes

The Administrator, Fr William Falcao, then spoke to the gathering, offering additional details about the operations of the Past Pupils Unit at Vasai. He urged the alumni to increase their support, boost community involvement, and foster a stronger sense of belonging.

Mrs Pallavi Xalxo, a former student and current lecturer at Nirmala Niketan College who is pursuing a Ph.D. in Social Science, expressed her deep gratitude to the institution. She reflected on how the school offered her valuable leadership opportunities that have significantly shaped her career and success. Mrs Xalxo encouraged other alumni to actively engage with the association, emphasizing the potential for collective efforts to contribute their skills and support to the school.

The meeting ended with a prayer specifically crafted for the Past Pupils Association. The attendees spent time interacting with each other and the staff, reminiscing about the past and enjoyed light refreshments.

Reinstating the Past Pupils Association at Don Bosco High School will greatly benefit both the alumni and the school community. By building a strong network, involving alumni actively, and harnessing their support, the association will help ensure the ongoing development and success of the institution.