by Shaila Misal for BIS Mumbai

In order to foster holistic development and instill a sense of responsibility in its students, Don Bosco English Medium School Savedi, Ahilyanagar (Ahmednagar), recently organized an exhilarating scout camp for students in grades 8th and 9th. The camp, held at the picturesque Asha Kiran centre in Pimpalgaon, Ujjaini, Ahilyanagar, spanned from December 5 to 7, 2024.

The excitement kicked off at 9 am on the 5th, as the eager students, donned in their scout and guide attire, assembled at Don Bosco School in Savedi. Accompanied by the school staff and Fr Richard Burkhao, the principal, the students embarked on a bus journey to Asha Kiran. Upon reaching the destination, Sister Lourdu, the Superior of Asha Kiran institute, warmly welcomed the students, setting a positive tone for the camp. After a brief introduction, the scouts and guides efficiently set up 11 tents at the campsite under the expert guidance of the staff. The camp officially commenced with the grand hoisting of the scout flag and the investiture ceremony, marking the beginning of a memorable and enriching experience for all participants.

After lunch, the students gathered for an informative session on scouting and guiding led by teacher Shaila Misal. During this session, students learned about first aid, woodcraft signs, and yells. The goal was to enhance the students' knowledge and skills in these areas. Following this, Mr Arun Peshkar from the District Scout and Guide office conducted a session for the students on the history of scouting and its importance. Mr Arun congratulated Principal Fr Richard Burkhao for providing the students with a wonderful experience. As a token of appreciation, Fr Richard presented Mr Arun with a scout scarf and thanked him.

Later, the students were given time to gather dry wood for cooking. They persevered and successfully completed their cooking tasks. Fr Ajit Munis, the Principal of Don Bosco Vidyalaya, along with the staff and Fr Mavron Fernandes, the administrator of the institute, visited the campsite to motivate and encourage the students.

The following day kicked off with the BP 6 scouting exercises. After freshening up, the students engaged in a nature meditation session, followed by cleaning and inspecting the area and raising the scout flag. Following breakfast, the students set out on an exhilarating hiking adventure on a nearby mountain, with a pre-marked trail to follow. The day's activities also included parades, training sessions on creating various gadgets with staves and ropes, building a pioneering project like a watchtower, and preparing for the evening campfire.

The highlight of the camp was the evening campfire, graced by Fr Richard D’ Silva, the Manager and Rector of the school. In his address to the students, he emphasized the importance of making the most of the opportunities presented to them. The day wrapped up with a series of engaging night games led by Fr Richard Burkhao and the rest of the staff.

The next morning, after a thorough cleaning and inspection, the action-packed and unforgettable camp came to a close with the distribution of prizes and a heartfelt vote of thanks from Fr Richard Burkhao. The hard work, dedication, selflessness, and enthusiastic service of the staff, including Mrs Shaila Misal, Mrs Savita Gaikwad, Mrs Monica Gaikwad, Mrs Manisha Badekar, Mr Tohid Khan, M Harshal Kamble, Mr Prashant Gaikwad, and Mr Balasaheb Bhingardive, were greatly appreciated by all the students, who were immensely grateful for such a memorable and exhilarating experience.