By Mr Amarr Prabhu for BIS Mumbai

On September 18, 2025, Don Bosco Industrial Training Institute, Kurla, officially inaugurated the Academic Year 2025-26 with a well-organized and meaningful ceremony held in the Fr Santino Mondini Hall. The event was marked by the presence of the institute’s management, dedicated faculty members, and a vibrant group of 214 trainees from various trades under both the ITI and state board curricula. This gathering thoughtfully blended solemn traditions, motivating speeches, and active participation by the students themselves, signifying the formal commencement of a promising new academic journey for all attendees.

The programme commenced with a warm and heartfelt welcome speech delivered by Allan Chettiar, a first-year trainee whose words captured the enthusiasm and aspirations of the entire trainee community. Following this inspiring opening, the Salesian community along with Mr Amarr Prabhu, the Principal of the institute, collectively lit the ceremonial lamp. This symbolic act represented the illumination of knowledge and wisdom, reflecting the institute’s commitment to nurturing the talents and skills of its trainees.

A reflective moment was introduced through a prayer service conducted by Chris Chettiar, which enriched the ceremony with spiritual depth and inclusivity. The service featured scripture readings drawn from three major faiths, highlighting the institute’s respect for diversity and interfaith harmony. In a symbolic gesture, items such as books, tools, sports gear, and a plant were offered, each representing essential values: knowledge, skill, safety, and growth, respectively. The prayer concluded with a touching hymn, which uplifted the mood and fostered a sense of community among all present.

Mr Prabhu then introduced the management team, instructors, and staff members, emphasizing their crucial roles in guiding and shaping the students' academic and personal development. The address delivered by Fr Anthony Pinto was a highlight of the ceremony; he fervently encouraged the trainees, declaring, “Discipline and hard work are the foundation of true excellence. Uphold the Don Bosco spirit in every aspect of your learning.”

A significant part of the ceremony involved oath-taking, where representatives from both the staff and instructors pledged to uphold the highest teaching standards, while trainees vowed to respect institutional values and dedicate themselves to excellence. The vote of thanks was delivered by Mr Dexter, who graciously acknowledged the contributions of everyone involved in making the event a success. The ceremony concluded on an inspiring note with the singing of the Institute Anthem, encapsulating the spirit of Don Bosco.

The entire event reflected the core essence of Don Bosco’s visionary principles—faith, learning, and unity—setting a solid foundation for what promises to be a fruitful and successful academic year ahead at Don Bosco ITI, Kurla.