By Auxiln Fernando for BIS Mumbai

Don Bosco Chinchwad celebrated the feast of its founder, St. John Bosco, by hosting a grand high tea for its valued CSR partners and collaborators, culminating in the joyous inauguration of a brand-new Audio-Visual (AV) Hall. The event underscored the institute's unwavering commitment to youth empowerment through skill training, fostering deeper ties with industry leaders. 

 The festivities kicked off with a prayer of blessings led by Fr Anton D'Souza, Director of Don Bosco Chinchwad. In a moment of pride, Fr D'Souza and Mr Gaurav Choudhary, CSR Executive from Schaeffler, jointly cut the ribbon, officially unveiling the modern AV Hall. This facility promises to elevate training programs with cutting-edge audio-visual technology, benefiting hundreds of young trainees.In his heartfelt welcome address, Fr D'Souza extended profound gratitude to Schaeffler for funding the AV Hall project. He reflected on the longstanding, fruitful association between Schaeffler and Don Bosco, which has driven meaningful community impact. "Your support embodies the shared vision of nurturing skilled youth for a brighter future," he remarked.

 The project milestone traced back to August 29, 2025, when Fr Ashley Miranda and Mr Gaurav Choudhary performed the traditional coconut-breaking ceremony, marking the construction's start. Fr D'Souza also thanked the Provincial and Schaeffler team for their generosity. 

 Special appreciation went to Fr Colbert and his crew for exemplary interior work, Mr Nilesh Chandgude for bridging the partners, and Ms Fernandes and Ms Glory for meticulous project accounting.

 Ms Avita Mascarenhas, in her announcement, highlighted the impressive turnout from key collaborators: Schaeffler, Knorr Bremse, Mud and Riggers, KSB, SSF, TATA Motors, Blue Star, Mercedes, Ma Foi Foundation, BOBST India, TM Automotive, BS6 Auto India, VR Coating, Cradiant IT Services, Siyon Industries, Regreen EPC, and others. Their presence added prestige to the occasion.

 As tokens of appreciation, the institute gifted dignitaries student-crafted seed balls—promoting ecology—and spanner keychains, symbolizing hands-on skill training. These handmade items beautifully captured Don Bosco's ethos of sustainability and vocational excellence.

 A captivating short video presentation followed, showcasing the institute's mission: empowering underprivileged youth through rigorous skill training and job placements. It featured success stories of trainees securing roles in top industries, illustrating tangible transformations.

 Mr Gaurav Choudhary praised Don Bosco Chinchwad's mission, stating, "Our CSR partners are thrilled to align with this noble cause, sharing the objective of youth upliftment." His words resonated, reinforcing collaborative synergy. 

Fr D'Souza capped the event by proudly announcing new Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) for 2026 with Schaeffler, Knorr Bremse, Mud & Riggers, SSF, BOBST India, Binzil, Ma Foi Foundation, TERRI, Mercedes Benz, Blue Star, and Hyundai. 

 These partnerships signal expanded opportunities in training and placements.

 The high tea that ensued buzzed with networking, as partners mingled, exchanged ideas, and voiced delight at the invitation. Expressions of joy and gratitude filled the air, promising sustained collaboration for community good.