MINISTRIES

Sonada, 31 August: A ‘Conference cum Interactive Session of Principals and Senior Teachers’ from the neighbouring schools of Darjeeling District was held at Research & Publication Cell, Salesian College Sonada (SCS), Autonomous,  on 23rd August, 2024, targeting principals and teachers of the region. 

Prof. Kem Chand Kapoor, former Vice Chancellor, Rajiv Gandhi University, Arunachal Pradesh, was the resource person. A total of 25 participants were present at the session. 

After the free registration, the Principals & teachers of eleven schools from Kurseong, Mirik and Darjeeling zones,  gathered in the Research and Publication Cell at 2 pm. The session commenced with words of welcome, a short introduction of SCS and perspective of the event by Dr. Terence Mukhia, Dean, SCS.  Dr. Bro. Joseph Augustin, Vice Principal of SCS and the Convener of the event, introduced the resource person, Prof. Kem Chand Kapoor.

Prof. K.C. Kapoor shared his expertise through a power point presentation on “School Leadership and Changing Educational Landscape: Embracing NEP, Skill Development, and AI for Future-Ready Schools.” It was an interactive session during which the teachers posed questions seeking answers and clarifications. NEP 2020 was one of the major concerns of the participants.

As the discussions progressed some clarity was brought about in the areas of NEP, implementation of Bloom’s Taxonomy, challenges in the field of undergraduate research, the policy of non-retention of students till cl.8, and learner/learning centric education. 

Rev. Bro. Joseph Augustin summed up the interactive session highlighting the importance of spending more time and energy in the field of school education which serves the basis for higher education. He thanked the resource person and the participants for the enthusiastic participation in the interactive session. 

Dr. Terence Mukhia

11 June 2024, Darjeeling: The graduation ceremony at Salesian College Sonada commenced with an assembly in the Front Courtyard on 11 June 2024. The procession included the National Flag Bearer and College Flag Bearer, both Deans, followed by NCC cadets, band members, and department-wise lines led by their HoDs. The dignitaries, including the Chief Guest, Principal, Rector, Vice Principals, Coordinator, and faculty members, were escorted by NCC cadets. The Vice Principal addressed the assembly from the Arcade.

The Master of Ceremonies began with a quote from George Washington Carver. The Vice Principal, Fr. Nirmal Toppo, welcomed the guests. Dr. Terence Mukhia and Mr. Uday Malla then led the procession to the Auditorium with the Brothers’ Band playing “Come thou fount of every blessing.”

In the Hall, the students and dignitaries took their places in silence. The MC highlighted the significance of Graduation Day. A lamp-lighting ceremony followed, symbolizing knowledge and life, with participation from the Chief Guest, Principal, and representatives from each department. Ms. Alisha Soreng led the Prayer of the Graduates, after which the National Anthem was sung.

Fr. Johny Nedungatt delivered the Rector’s message, and the HoDs called the roll of candidates for graduation. The Principal, Fr. Dr. Babu Joseph, assessed and declared the candidates’ readiness for their degrees, followed by an oath-taking ceremony.

Dr. Terence Mukhia presented the annual report. Certificates and mementos were distributed to students by various dignitaries, and special awards such as the Principal’s Award and President’s Award were given.

Dr. Nupur Das delivered the keynote address, inspiring the graduates. The ceremony concluded with a song by Anjana Rai, a valedictory speech by Mr. Prabhakar Khawas, and the College Anthem. The graduates then proceeded for group and individual photographs.

The ceremony celebrated the students' achievements and marked the beginning of a new chapter in their lives, emphasizing the values and education imparted by Salesian College.