By Rivekta Marti for BIS Mumbai

The farewell ceremony for the SSC Batch of 2025–2026 at St. Dominic Savio High School, Andheri, was held with great warmth, gratitude, and joy, reflecting the theme “Sailing Ahead with Hope, Peace, and Purpose.” The programme beautifully symbolised the students’ journey as they prepared to embark on a new chapter in their lives.

 The event commenced with a melodious welcome song presented by the students of Std IX, as the dignitaries, class teachers, and outgoing students entered the assembly hall. The comperes set the tone by emphasising that the gathering was not merely a farewell, but a celebration of memories, growth, and new beginnings. A prayer service followed, invoking God’s blessings on the graduating batch. A significant moment of the ceremony was the lighting of ten candles, each representing guiding values and intentions, reminding students of the virtues they must carry forward.

 Fr Francisco Pereira, the Rector and Manager, addressed the gathering, encouraging students to move forward with hope, peace, and purpose. Quoting Don Bosco, he urged them to “Be good, be holy, be joyful,” and reminded them that their character and values would define them more than their achievements. He also encouraged them to remain rooted in their values, especially during challenging times. The solemn oath-taking ceremony was led by the outgoing School Captain, Mast. Vinayak Rathod, as the students pledged to uphold the honour and values of their alma mater. The Rector then formally declared them graduates of the institution.

 The programme continued with a lively musical performance, followed by an audio-visual presentation that captured cherished memories of the batch’s journey. The Principal, Ms Valerie Mascarenhas, expressed pride in the students and encouraged them to be true to who they are, reminding them that real success lies not in being ahead of others, but in becoming the person they are meant to be. An emotional highlight was the recitation of the poem “The Last Bell Rings” by the School Captain, capturing the deep bond shared between students and teachers.

 The ceremony concluded with the school anthem, followed by fun games and a fellowship meal, fostering joy and camaraderie. The farewell was indeed a memorable occasion, filled with gratitude, emotions, and hope for the future.