By BIS Correspondent for BIS Mumbai

Don Bosco Development Services, Nerul, organised a Graduation Day Celebration on November 4, 2026, at the School Hall to recognise and celebrate the achievements of 119 participants who successfully completed various community-based and in-house skill development courses. Certificates were awarded to participants across five training areas: Tailoring, Mehendi, Nail Art, Makeup and Computer Training. The celebration highlighted the importance of vocational education in promoting confidence, self-reliance and livelihood opportunities.

The programme began with a welcome address by Mr Mathew George, who greeted the guests, staff, trainers and participants and highlighted the role of vocational education in empowering individuals and strengthening communities. This was followed by a prayer song presented by Gulnaaz and her group, invoking God's blessings for the occasion. A lively welcome dance by Gulnaaz and her team added to the festive atmosphere.

On behalf of the Rector, Fr Allwyn Misquitta, Administrator and Head of the Social Work Department, addressed the gathering and shared the Five Sutras of Life: Prarthana (Prayer), Padhai (Education), Prem (Love), Safai (Cleanliness) and Seva (Service). He explained how these values help individuals develop discipline, compassion, knowledge and a sense of responsibility towards society.

The programme also provided a platform for beneficiaries to share their learning experiences. Participants from Kopri Gaon who had completed tailoring and beautician training spoke about how the courses had equipped them with practical skills, enhanced their confidence and opened up possibilities for livelihood development. A beneficiary of the computer training programme also shared how the course had improved their digital knowledge, skills and confidence. Their experiences reflected the positive impact of skill development initiatives at the community level.

An inspiring motivational session by Fr Misquitta encouraged participants to remain determined, positive and committed to continuous learning. Sharing the journey of renowned chef Sanjeev Kapoor, he highlighted the importance of perseverance and dedication in achieving success. He also introduced three guiding principles through the examples of an "ice factory" in the brain to remain calm, a "love factory" in the heart to work wholeheartedly and a "sugar factory" in the mouth to speak kindly. His message encouraged participants to believe in their abilities and approach life with confidence and positivity.

A PowerPoint presentation showcasing the community development initiatives of Don Bosco Development Services, Nerul, highlighted its work in vocational training, skill development and educational support. This was followed by the distribution of certificates to all 119 participants across the five training categories, recognising their dedication, learning and successful completion of the courses.

Mr Mathew George proposed the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to the management, priests, staff, trainers, volunteers and participants for their contribution to the successful organisation of the programme. The celebration concluded with a group photograph, music and fellowship, followed by refreshments and snacks for all attendees.

The Graduation Day Celebration marked an important milestone in the learning journey of the participants. It recognised their achievements and encouraged them to utilise their newly acquired skills for employment, entrepreneurship and income generation. The event reaffirmed Don Bosco Development Services, Nerul's commitment to empowering individuals and communities through education, vocational training, skill development and sustainable livelihood opportunities.