by Crystal Cerejo for BIS Mumbai

Don Bosco High School, Naigaon East, hosted an enriching and dynamic Scouts and Guides camp for Grades 8 and 9 students on February 21, 2025. Held on the school campus, the event witnessed enthusiastic participation from approximately 200 students. With the theme "Our World, Our Thriving Future," the camp aimed to instill discipline, strengthen character, and foster environmental consciousness among young minds.

The day commenced with a solemn prayer service, invoking divine blessings for a meaningful and fruitful experience. This was followed by the flag-break ceremony, symbolizing discipline, unity, and responsibility. The school principal then addressed the gathering, emphasizing the significance of scouting values, leadership, and community service. He said, "A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way".

Father introduced the esteemed guest, Mr Mark, a seasoned Scouts trainer. Mr Mark, a retired Physical Education teacher and former Scouts master from Don Bosco, Borivali, now serves as an external Scouts instructor and examiner,  bringing invaluable expertise to the camp.

Under the guidance of Camp Master Lucas Lopes and a team of skilled instructors, students were introduced to fundamental campcraft techniques. They honed their skills in knot-tying, strategic teamwork, and various scouting challenges.

Grade 8 students practiced an array of knots, including reef knots, clove hitches, sheepshank knots, fisherman’s knots, and one round two half hitches. Meanwhile, Grade 9 students engaged in constructing practical camp structures such as shoe racks, clothes-hanging stands, tripod structures, dishwashing stations, and creatively expressed themselves in the "Paint Your World" activity.

Additionally, Mr Mark conducted an engaging session on the importance of knots, taught lively scout songs and claps, and reinforced the significance of physical well-being and teamwork—core tenets of scouting.

The camp also featured an array of thrilling competitions designed to inspire creativity, innovation, and collaboration:

Cooking Contest: Scouts showcased their culinary skills by preparing nutritious fireless and fire-cooked meals, demonstrating resourcefulness and survival techniques.

Tele Games: A series of exhilarating team-based activities, including the Mule Train, Caterpillar Race, and Handprint & Footprint challenge, encouraged coordination and camaraderie.

Environmental Awareness Program: Students participated in an insightful session that featured two short films—Green Desk and Eco Care Givers—produced by Grade 10 students Miss Delish and Master Krish. These films, selected for the Global Youth Film Festival, educated students on pressing environmental issues. A Question and answer session followed, enhancing students' understanding of sustainability.

Gadget & Knot-Tying Challenge: Scouts showcased their expertise by constructing innovative gadgets and demonstrating their proficiency in intricate knot-tying techniques.

To deepen their connection with nature, students embarked on an invigorating trekking expedition and nature trail. This adventure not only strengthened their appreciation for the environment but also nurtured leadership skills, resilience, and self-reliance.

As dusk settled, the much-anticipated campfire gathering commenced. The evening was filled with enthusiastic action songs, creating a memorable conclusion to the event.

The camp officially concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Vice Principal Fr Joaquim Fernandes, expressing gratitude to the principal, scout masters, and teachers for their unwavering support and dedication.

As the campfire’s flames dimmed, students departed with renewed confidence, refined skills, and a profound sense of responsibility as global citizens. The experience not only enriched their scouting journey but also left an indelible mark on their personal growth and development.