By Michelle Pereira for BIS Mumbai

On August 25, 2025, Don Bosco Development Services (DBDS), Nerul, hosted a memorable Graduation Day celebration at Don Bosco Academy (DBA), Nerul. The occasion was particularly meaningful as it marked a triple celebration – the birth anniversary of St John Bosco, the first anniversary of the Don Bosco Advanced Computer Education (DB ACE) program, and the Graduation Ceremony for 84 women who successfully completed training in tailoring, beautician services, makeup artistry, nail art, and mehndi.

 For years, DBDS has been at the forefront of empowering migrant communities through its various skill-building initiatives. Field officers work closely with families every day, running programs in tailoring, beautician training, nail art, mehndi, English speaking, and oratory sessions for children. These efforts have been widely appreciated and have created meaningful change at the grassroots level.

 Launched in 2024, DB ACE is a flagship initiative aimed at equipping young people between the ages of 18 – 25 years from economically disadvantaged backgrounds with essential computer knowledge. The program builds confidence, enhances employability, and opens doors to better job opportunities. On this day, the first batch of 13 DB ACE graduates proudly received their certificates, symbolizing a new beginning for their professional journeys.

 The event began with a warm welcome by Mr Mathew George, Coordinator of DBDS, who highlighted the significance of the celebration as a convergence of faith, skill, and empowerment. The program was seamlessly anchored by Ms Sushma, Spoken English faculty, who also introduced the ongoing six-month Spoken English course designed to help learners of all ages gain fluency and confidence in communication.

 Gracing the occasion as chief guests were Ms Deepa Kamble - Asst. Social Services Officer – CIDCO, Ms Sharada Phadtare Sr. Planner, NAINA Project, CIDCO, and Mr Manik Gaikwade - Asst. Regional Manager, MKCL. They were joined by Fr Barnabe D’Souza (Rector, DBA Nerul), Fr Shekar Mariadas - Vice Principal & Administrator, DBN, and Ms Wenonah Castellino - Advisor, DBA.

 The ceremony opened on a spiritual note with the soulful prayer song “Itni Shakti Hume Dena Daata,” followed by the traditional lamp lighting, symbolizing hope and new beginnings. Fr Barnabe D’Souza paid homage to St John Bosco by garlanding his portrait, after which children from the oratory extended a warm floral welcome to the guests.

 The cultural segment featured vibrant dance performances by children from the oratory and women from the Panvel community. Course instructors also presented an overview of their training modules and syllabi, giving the audience insights into the programs’ depth and impact. The highlight of the day was the certificate distribution ceremony, where graduates were felicitated for their dedication and achievements.

 True to the vision of St John Bosco, who believed in the power of education and skill development to uplift the marginalized, DBDS continues its mission of serving communities and empowering lives. The Graduation Day celebration was an acknowledgment of academic milestones, a testament to the transformative power of education, skill, and service.