By Colman Dsouza for BIS Mumbai

Don Bosco Chinchwad, came together to honour Rector and Director Fr Anton D’Souza at a warm and reflective farewell programme that acknowledged his years of dedicated service and leadership. 

The event drew management, faculty, students and industry partners, underscoring the strong relationships Fr D’Souza cultivated during his tenure and the lasting impact of his commitment to skill-based education.

The gathering included key members of the Don Bosco community: Fr Colbert, Administrator; Fr Bosco, Hostel In-charge; Mr Nilesh Chandgude, Principal of ITI; and Mr Gaurav Chaudary representing industry partner Schaeffler India. Mr Mahesh, Ms Sunila and Mr Bhushan from SSF.  The dignitaries from Social and political field also graced the occasion. Their attendance reflected both institutional appreciation and external recognition of Fr Anton’s role in strengthening the institute’s mission to empower youth through vocational training.

A highlight of the programme was a specially prepared presentation that traced Fr D'Souza's contributions to technical training, student development and institutional growth. The presentation recalled milestones achieved under his guidance, including initiatives aimed at widening access for underprivileged and skill-seeking youth, enhancing workshop facilities, and forging meaningful collaborations with industry partners to improve employability and practical exposure for trainees.

Principal Mr Nilesh Chandgude spoke warmly about Fr Anton’s vision and steady leadership. He credited Fr Anton with instilling discipline, teamwork and an unwavering commitment to quality training across the institute. “His guidance has propelled the institute forward and inspired both staff and students to aim higher,” Mr Chandgude said, highlighting the Rector’s role in nurturing an environment of professional development and pastoral care.

Representing Schaeffler India, Gaurav Chaudary applauded the institute’s sustained efforts in skill development and acknowledged the leadership that enabled productive industry-academia linkages. He remarked that such partnerships are vital for aligning training with real-world industry needs and opening employment pathways for graduates.

In his farewell address, Fr D’Souza expressed heartfelt gratitude for the cooperation and affection he received from the Don Bosco community. He encouraged students to remain disciplined, hardworking and focused on building their futures, and urged staff to persist in serving young people with dedication and sincerity. His message combined pastoral warmth with practical counsel for the next generation of technicians.

Staff members and students conveyed their appreciation through speeches and presented Fr Anton with a token of love as a mark of respect. 

The vote of thanks was delivered by Auxiln Fernando, who acknowledged the contributions of the management, guests, staff and students in making the programme meaningful.

The farewell proved a memorable occasion of gratitude and goodwill, celebrating Fr Anton’s service and wishing him blessings and success in his future responsibilities.