By Tr Nivetha Silva for BIS Mumbai

“A good education can change everyone. A good teacher can change everything!”

On the August 23, 2025, three of our esteemed staff members from St. Joseph’s High School, Wadala were cordially invited to the Annual Felicitation Program organized by the Educational Department of BMC – City Zone Level FN/FS/GN/GS. The felicitation ceremony was held at Sane Guruji High School under the able guidance of the Headmistress Mrs Priyanka Surve, and graced by the presence of  our B.O/Education Inspector, Mr Mohammed Irfan Shah Qadar,  and the Chief Guest Mrs Zeenat Fatima, Headmistress of Anjuman Islam High School, who honored the awardees for their commitment and contribution to education. All the heads of the institution along with their staff were present for this occasion.

The program began with the inauguration of the ceremony by lighting of the lamp, national anthem and welcome song sung by the students of Sane Guruji High School. Along with other schools, Tr Smita Lewis, Head Teacher of the Primary Section, was awarded Best Headmistress of the Primary Section for the academic year 2024-25.  Tr Sunita D’Souza, Class Teacher of Std IV A, was awarded Best Primary Teacher for the academic year 2024-25. Mrs Madhavi Diniz, our dedicated Primary Clerk, was felicitated for the academic year 2024-25. Each one of them were felicitated and applauded for their sincerity, dedication, and relentless efforts in shaping the future of students and upholding the values of St. Joseph’s High School, Wadala.

Our Education Inspector, Mr Irfan Shah, spoke about Basic Skills that the principals and teachers in all schools should focus on developing students' reading, and writing skills. Also, attention should be paid to basic mathematical operation. He stressed on Wings of Creativity. Speaking on this issue, Mr Shah said that every student has some hidden qualities, so all teachers should discover those qualities and give the students the power of wings. Teachers should encourage students to showcase their talents, qualities by strengthening these wings. Students should know to speak in English, Hindi and Marathi. He ended his speech by singing Sane Guruji’s poem, “Khara toh ekachi dharma, jagala prem arpavey”, which means - there is only one true religion- that you offer your love to all people you meet. The program ended by Pasayadan recited by the Teachers of Sane Guruji High School.

Following this prestigious recognition, a special felicitation ceremony was also held in our school during the class assembly of Std III B, where our Rector & Manager, Fr James Nigrel, along with our Principal, Fr Solomon Rapol, honored the awardees and congratulated them on their remarkable achievements.

The entire Josephite family rejoices in their success and takes pride in their well-deserved recognition.