By Dorothy Fernandes for BIS Mumbai

Don Bosco High School and Junior College, Naigaon, Mumbai, commenced the Academic Year 2026–2027, with a solemn and prayerful service on June 17, 2026, invoking God's abundant blessings upon the management, staff, and students as they embarked on a new journey of learning, growth, and achievement.

The occasion held special significance as the school community extended a warm and heartfelt welcome to the newly appointed Rector, Fr Royal D’Abreo. Students, teachers, and members of the management greeted him with enthusiasm and looked forward to his guidance and leadership in carrying forward the Salesian mission of educating young minds in the spirit of St John Bosco. The gathering also served as a joyful reunion, welcoming students and staff back to school after the vacation and encouraging them to embrace the new academic year with renewed vigour, dedication, and optimism.

The prayer service, themed, ‘Dream Big, Work Hard’, commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp, symbolizing the light of knowledge, wisdom, and divine guidance. This meaningful ritual set the tone for the gathering and reminded everyone of the importance of seeking God's presence in all their endeavours. The ceremony continued with intercessory prayers and a prayer hymn that sought God's strength, protection, and blessings upon the entire school community. Through their prayers, the students entrusted the new academic year to God, asking for guidance, perseverance, and the grace to grow in wisdom and virtue while remaining steadfast in goodness and truth.

Adding a reflective dimension to the programme, an inspirational video was screened for the students. The video emphasized the importance of perseverance, discipline, commitment, and consistent hard work in achieving one's dreams, goals and aspirations. It encouraged students to remain focused on their dreams and reminded them that success is not attained overnight but through dedication, determination, and sustained effort. The message resonated strongly with the students as they prepared to begin a new chapter in their academic journey.

Addressing the gathering for the first time as Rector, Fr Royal D’Abreo shared an inspiring message with the staff and students. He encouraged everyone to begin the academic year with hearts filled with gratitude, love, respect, and a sense of responsibility. Drawing inspiration from the life and teachings of St John Bosco, he urged the students to cultivate good values, remain committed to their studies, and strive for excellence in every sphere of life. He reminded them that true success lies not only in academic accomplishments but also in becoming responsible, compassionate, disciplined, and value-driven individuals who contribute positively to society.

The Principal, Fr Anthony Fonseca, also addressed the gathering and warmly welcomed the students and staff to the new academic year and encouraged the students to make the most of the opportunities provided by the school. He urged them to uphold the values of Don Bosco and work diligently towards achieving their goals.

The prayer service concluded on a hopeful and uplifting note as the entire school community renewed its commitment to hard work, discipline, and personal growth. With God's blessings and guidance, the school looks forward to a fruitful and successful year ahead.