Rev. Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal SDB, Provincial, addressing the Past Pupils at the Garo Hills Regional Association meeting of Past Pupils on Saturday.
The Past Pupils Association of the Garo Hills Region organized a well-structured and inspiring Animation Programme on Saturday at Don Bosco College of Teacher Education, Tura on September 13, 2025. The programme, which brought together more than 150 participants, was organised by Rev. Fr. Jogesh B. Sangma SDB, Rector and Principal of Don Bosco College Higher Secondary Section, Tura and the provincial delegate in-charge of Past Pupils. The day highlighted the spirit of unity, service, and Salesian family togetherness.
The Inaugural Session, which commenced at 10:30 a.m., opened with a prayer dance by the Auxilium Girls of Tura, invoking God’s blessings. A scripture reading taken from the Gospel of Luke was read byRev. Fr. Andreas Panna SDB, Vice Rector and Spiritual Director of Don Bosco Centre for Learning. His reflection on gratitude was linked to the selfless service of past pupils, who continue to contribute to society after receiving holistic education from Don Bosco institutions.
The lighting of the lamp was led by Rev. Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal SDB, Provincial of the Salesian Province of Guwahati (ING), along with Fr. Jogesh B. Sangma, Fr. Pius Varghese, and representatives of past pupils from different units: Don Bosco School Tura, Don Bosco College Tura, Don Bosco Centre for Learning, Don Bosco School Mendal, Holy Family Higher Secondary School Rongjeng, and St. Dominic Savio Garobadha. This act symbolized wisdom, knowledge, and unity. The inaugural session also included floral tributes, a welcome speech, and felicitations. Special honours were given to Sir Hilarius Ch. Sangma, senior past pupil and former President of the Tura Association, for his long-standing dedication.
Cultural performances enriched the occasion, with a melodious welcome song by DBCL brothers and degree students, followed by a traditional Garo melody by the DBCT Cultural Club. The session concluded with an encouraging message from Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal SDB, Provincial and the solemn Hymn to Don Bosco, bringing all present into the Salesian spirit.
After a brief coffee break, participants reconvened for the Keynote Address by Fr. Provincial, who underlined Don Bosco’s vision, the mission of past pupils in society, and the need for collaboration with the Salesian family. Reports from different units of the region highlighted ongoing initiatives and contributions, while Fr. Januarius S. Sangmadelivered on the identity and mission of Salesian Past Pupils.
The deliberations concluded with three important resolutions:
- To hold annual animation programmes in the region, with the next to be hosted at Holy Family Higher Secondary School, Rongjeng.
- To intensify enrolment drives in each centre.
- To organize career guidance programmes and voluntary blood donation drives in all units.
The programme concluded with a fellowship meal, which fostered joyful interaction and strengthened bonds of fraternity. Participants left with renewed zeal and inspiration to serve society as true sons and daughters of Don Bosco.
