by Namrata Godetti for BIS Mumbai

Don Bosco School and Junior College, Nashik, marked an eventful week filled with patriotic celebrations, community service, and sporting excellence in January 2025. The institution demonstrated its commitment to holistic development through three significant events: the 76th Republic Day celebration, a Blood Donation Camp, and an Interschool Football Tournament.

The Republic Day festivities commenced with Chief Guest Mr Nitin Hire, a former Junior Warrant Officer in the Indian Air Force, being welcomed by Rector Fr Royal, Principal Fr Rixson Nigrel, and Fr Panna Singh. Following the flag hoisting and national anthem, students presented a diverse cultural program featuring patriotic dances, including a touching performance demonstrating how to transform disability into ability. A compelling street play highlighted environmental concerns and citizens' duties. Mr Hire shared his inspiring Air Force journey, emphasizing discipline and national service, while Principal Fr Nigrel urged the community to uphold constitutional values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

On January 25, the school organized a Blood Donation Camp in partnership with Civil Hospital, establishing a well-equipped donation area with proper medical facilities. The event garnered enthusiastic participation from staff members, Salesian Training Institute brothers and fathers from Divyadaan Nashik, parents, and local residents. Volunteers, including students and teachers, assisted with registration and awareness activities. Each donor received refreshments and a certificate of appreciation, with the camp successfully collecting substantial blood supplies for patients in need.

The week culminated in an exciting Interschool Football Tournament on January 27, featuring six prestigious schools competing in knockout rounds. The event began with a guard of honor for Chief Guest Fr Royal, who garlanded Don Bosco's statue and delivered an inspiring address about sports' role in student development. The tournament showcased exceptional talent and sportsmanship, with Kilbil St Joseph High School emerging victorious over Ashoka Universal School in the final match. Individual honors went to Yug from Ashoka Universal School as Best Football Player and Karthik from Kilbil as Best Goalkeeper.

Throughout these events, Don Bosco School demonstrated its dedication to fostering well-rounded individuals through a blend of patriotic values, community service, and athletic excellence. Principal Fr Rixson Nigrel's consistent message across all events emphasized the school's commitment to character building and holistic development. He also emphasized on Don Bosco's famous quote, "Run, Jump, Play, But Don't Sin," encouraging students to engage in wholesome activities while maintaining ethical values. Whether through cultural performances, blood donation, or sporting achievements, the institution successfully created opportunities for students to learn, serve, and excel while upholding Don Bosco's core values of discipline, teamwork, and social responsibility.