By Ujjwala Siddapur for BISMumbai

Newly elected student leaders from Don Bosco High School and Junior College, Lonavla, and Auxilium Convent High School, Lonavla, participated in a joint Leadership Orientation Programme held at the House of Prayer, Khandala, on June 20. The initiative brought together student representatives from both institutions to strengthen leadership skills, encourage collaboration and prepare them for their responsibilities during the academic year.

The programme began with a welcome address by Fr Kiran Salve - Principal of Don Bosco High School and Junior College, Lonavla. Introducing the resource person, Fr Avil Correa, he thanked Sr Shiny Alphonse FMA, Principal of Auxilium Convent High School, for the continued collaboration and for encouraging students to take part in the formation programme.

Designed to promote self-awareness and teamwork, the orientation opened with activities that encouraged students to identify and share their personal strengths. Participants were later divided into groups for a series of ice-breakers and team-building exercises that fostered interaction, cooperation and mutual understanding among students from both schools. 

A major focus of the day was an exploration of Stephen Covey’s Seven Habits of Highly Effective Leaders. Through discussions, reflection exercises and practical activities, students examined qualities associated with effective leadership, including punctuality, responsibility, commitment and discipline. They were encouraged to reflect on personal accountability and the importance of taking initiative in everyday life. 

Interactive sessions on the habits “Be Proactive” and “Begin with the End in Mind” challenged participants to think creatively, solve problems collaboratively and set clear goals. Through guided reflection, students explored the value of strategic thinking, purpose-driven action and perseverance in achieving success. Additional activities reinforced the importance of confidence, self-belief and teamwork.

Following lunch, Fr Correa focused on communication and collaboration, highlighting the habits “Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood” and “Synergize”. Students learned the value of active listening, empathy, respectful dialogue and collective effort. Discussions emphasised that effective leadership begins with understanding others and working together towards shared goals.

The programme concluded with a reflective group activity in which students identified one habit they would practise, one leadership quality they would strengthen and one way they would serve others. Their presentations demonstrated thoughtful engagement with the day’s lessons and a commitment to responsible leadership. 

The orientation ended with a vote of thanks to Fr Correa for his guidance and insights. Participants left the programme better equipped to lead with confidence, responsibility and a spirit of service.