by By William Tribhuvan 

Chinchwad: Don Bosco Chinchwad celebrated Christmas with the participation of staff and students, highlighting the birth of Jesus, student creativity and teamwork.

The campus was decorated with stars, lights, bells and nativity scenes. Carol singing added to the festive atmosphere and conveyed messages of peace and goodwill.

Ms Simran Bagul welcomed the dignitaries, staff and students and briefly explained the significance of Christmas.

A Bethlehem crib displayed in a car drew special attention. Created by technical students, the display reflected their training in the automotive sector and symbolised the integration of faith with vocational skills.

The celebration also included recognition of the Star Competition organised earlier by the technical department. Judges Mr Minin Lobo, Mr Somraj and Mr Damar Kudmal appreciated the students’ creativity and teamwork. Prizes were awarded for achievements in sports and poster-making.

Fr Anton D’Souza addressed the gathering and spoke on God’s love revealed through the birth of Jesus. He encouraged everyone to become instruments of peace and harmony in society and to support one another within the institution.

Fr Jeffrey Fernandes, the senior-most Salesian at the institute, distributed prizes to the winners and runners-up and encouraged students to remain committed to hard work and discipline.

Mr Nilesh Chandgude expressed gratitude to the staff and students for their cooperation and efforts in organising the celebration.

In the afternoon, the staff gathered for a Christmas fellowship meal. The Management presented gifts to all staff members as a token of appreciation. Fr Anton D’Souza thanked the administrator and kitchen staff for arranging the meal and gifts.

Students who received gifts expressed their joy by wearing Christmas T-shirts during the celebration.

Mr Vincent Dias, Mr Deepak Varpe and Mr Nilesh Chandgude were felicitated for exemplary punctuality and promptness, reflecting the institution’s emphasis on discipline and responsibility.

The Management thanked all donors and sponsors for their support. Students actively participated in decorations, star-making, posters, sports and carol singing.

Computer students, guided by Sir Ashay and Auxi Mam, created a small crib in the computer lab, conveying the Christmas message in a contemporary setting.

The programme concluded with students returning home in a joyful Christmas spirit.