Pics: Vincent Mascarenhas, Moodbidri
Tanzania: Sep. 22 : It was a red letter day in the history of St. Joseph Boys’ Science Secondary School, Same mission. The second graduation day of the Form Four students was celebrated with pomp and gaiety on September 22, 2018. It was held under the auspices of two Bishops: Bishop Emeritus of Mangalore Rt. Rev. Dr. Aloysius Paul D’Souza and Bishop of Same Rt. Rev. Dr. RogathKimaryo. Fr Richard Coelho, the Director of Father Muller Medical College Hospital Mangalore accompanied the Bishops. The Educational authorities of both the region and the district were also present. Mr. Kippi Warioba, the District Commissioner of Moshi, was not only the chief guest of the function, but also was present for the Holy Eucharist which preceded the graduation ceremony.
The Holy Mass which was held with the melodious choir of the students, was presided over by the Emeritus Bishop of Mangalore and the homily was given by the Bishop of Same.
Soon after the Mass, a Science Exhibition which was a sign of the budding scientists was inaugurated by the chief guest. The students were appreciated for their creative work wherein they had come up with innovative models.
After a tea break, the formal function was held in the well decorated Fatima Hall. All the guests were taken to the stage with the band and enchanting music. The outgoing graduates, the Form Four students lit the candle on the stage and took their seats with dancing steps which is part of African culture. The students had candle dance for prayer song after which Fr Alwyn D’Souza, manager of the school welcomed one and all. Fr Victor Machado, the Headmaster of the school read the report of the school in Swahili amidst the cheer of the audience for the several landmarks made in the achievements of the school.
All the teachers and non-teaching staff of the school were honored by Fr Richard Coelho. Mr Kippi Warioba, the chief guest of the programme distributed the prizes to the students who had excelled in various academic and non-academic fields.
This was followed by various entertainment programs which included value based skits.
The opportune moment came when the Form Four students were conferred the certificates of graduation by all the guests present on the dais. There was a great joy on their faces as well as on that of their parents. All the graduates sang a farewell song which was a sentimental moment for all those who were present.
All the speakers in their message highlighted the true meaning of education and how it should lead to a value based life. They gave several examples to explain their points and asked the students to move towards further great achievements in life. All these messages were well received by the students who were charged with new energy to launch into their future academic career.
Ms. Leonard Laghua, the second headmistress of the school proposed the vote of thanks. This was followed by a sumptuous meal by the students who sat in different groups along with their family members.
