By Fr Chris Ferreira SDB for BIS Mumbai

Don Bosco High School, Makarpura, Vadodara, organised a Career Awareness Seminar on the Armed Forces and the Services Selection Board (SSB) for the students of Std. 11 and 12 (Science). Around 200 students attended the informative and inspiring session, accompanied by their teachers. The seminar aimed to familiarise students with career opportunities in the Armed Forces and guide them about the pathways, eligibility requirements and qualities needed to pursue a career in defence services.

The session was conducted by Captain Hemant Chauhan, who was introduced to the gathering by the Principal, Ms Leena Varghese. Captain Chauhan provided students with detailed and valuable information about careers in the Armed Forces, the National Cadet Corps (NCC), the National Defence Academy (NDA) and the SSB selection process. He emphasised that discipline, leadership, teamwork, physical fitness, courage and mental strength are essential qualities for anyone aspiring to join the Armed Forces.

Captain Chauhan explained the importance of NCC as one of the largest uniformed youth organisations. He highlighted how NCC helps students develop discipline, confidence, leadership qualities, teamwork and a spirit of service to the nation. Students were encouraged to consider NCC as an important foundation for a future career in the Armed Forces.

The speaker also explained the NDA entrance examination, eligibility criteria and the importance of subjects such as Mathematics, General Ability, Physics, Biology, Geography, General Awareness and current affairs. He discussed various pathways available through schools, NCC and other defence-oriented educational opportunities. An important point highlighted during the session was that career opportunities in the Armed Forces are open to both boys and girls.

A significant part of the seminar focused on the SSB selection process. Students were introduced to its various stages, including screening, Picture Perception and Description Test (PPDT), psychological testing, Group Testing Officer (GTO) tasks, interview and conference. Captain Chauhan explained that SSB is not merely a test of academic knowledge; it is a comprehensive assessment of a candidate’s personality, communication skills, leadership ability, teamwork, confidence, decision-making and overall potential to become an officer.

Students were advised to remain honest, confident and clear during the interview. They were informed that questions may relate to their school life, family, hobbies, academic performance, personal interests and previous NDA attempts. The speaker strongly advised them not to memorise answers or pretend to be someone they were not.

Captain Chauhan also described various outdoor GTO activities and explained how group and individual tasks assess cooperation, initiative, leadership and problem-solving abilities. He further gave students an insight into the life of an Armed Forces officer, including training at academies such as the National Defence Academy at Khadakwasla, Pune, the passing-out parade, leadership opportunities and the pride of wearing the uniform. Information was also shared about specialised forces such as Garud Commandos and MARCOS, along with opportunities in the Coast Guard, aviation and logistics.

The seminar highlighted that the Armed Forces offer a disciplined lifestyle, professional growth, opportunities to serve the nation and various welfare benefits, including medical facilities, pension and career progression. Students also learnt that the role of Armed Forces personnel extends beyond protecting the nation’s borders to rescue operations, evacuation, disaster response and nation-building activities.

The session concluded with an encouraging message that true leadership is developed through discipline, responsibility, courage, teamwork and service. Students were motivated to explore defence careers with commitment, sincerity and clarity, keeping in mind that selection is merit-based and requires dedicated preparation.

The seminar proved to be an informative, inspiring and enriching experience. It broadened the students’ understanding of the Armed Forces, NDA, NCC and SSB and encouraged them to consider a meaningful career dedicated to serving the nation.