By Mrs Namrata Goddeti for BIS Mumbai

On September 20, 2025, Don Bosco School and Junior College, Nashik, conducted a one-day program titled “Preparing SSC Students for Life’s Challenges – A Holistic Approach.” This initiative aimed to equip SSC students with essential life skills and a balanced mindset to face the challenges beyond academics. The focus was on fostering mental resilience, emotional intelligence, social awareness, and practical tools necessary for holistic development.

The day began with a soulful prayer song that set a reflective and calming tone for the sessions ahead. This was followed by a welcome address by the Principal, Fr Rixson, who emphasized that education is not merely about academic performance, but about building values, emotional strength, and life skills. He also spoke candidly about the growing influence of social media and mobile phones on today’s youth, highlighting the importance of mindful technology use and digital discipline.

The first session, “Mental Wellness Matters” by Tr Ashoo, focused on stress management, mindfulness practices, and emotional self-awareness. Students were encouraged to understand the importance of mental health and how it directly impacts their academic and personal well-being.

This was followed by a session on “Values for Life” by Tr Madhuri, who stressed the importance of values like integrity, empathy, discipline, and perseverance. She also highlighted the crucial role of parents in providing both emotional and academic support during this important phase in a student's life.

Next, “Paper Presentation and Exam Skills” by Tr Sneha provided students with practical tips for effective exam preparation. She shared insights on answer-writing techniques, revision plans, and how to maintain a healthy balance between academics and other activities.

An essential session on “Time Management” was conducted by Tr Rebecca, who guided students on creating realistic study timetables, identifying their productive hours, and breaking down large tasks into manageable goals. She emphasized the importance of avoiding procrastination and maintaining a balanced daily routine.

The final session, “Prioritisation” by Tr Anagha, taught students how to differentiate between urgent and important tasks. She explained how setting clear priorities helps reduce stress, improve focus, and achieve academic goals more efficiently.

The program successfully created a safe and supportive environment where students could reflect on their personal and academic growth. It addressed their emotional, social, and academic needs in a comprehensive and engaging manner.

Through this initiative, Don Bosco School and Junior College once again reaffirmed its commitment to shaping confident, responsible, and well-rounded individuals—preparing students not just for board exams, but for life itself.