Ranald Lopes sdb
BARODA, JULY 8, 2008: The feast of St. Dominic Savio, July 6, was marked by a special event at Don Bosco Baroda – a meeting of the Past Pupils from the Rathwa region of Gujarat. A total of 22 past pupils from Chhota Udepur and Kawant, who are now living in Baroda, were present for this meeting. This coming together was a consequence of the Past Pupils’ Convention held at Chhota Udepur on May 31. It had been decided at that convention to form three Past Pupils’ Units for the students who had studied in the Don Bosco institutions in the tribal belt; the Baroda Unit being on of the three. The reason for creating this Unit is because there are several past pupils from Chhota, Kawant and Narukot who have migrated to the city of Baroda and they had expressed their desire to come together and work for the betterment of society in the Salesian spirit. Being the first meting, some practical details were sorted out such as the need to create a membership card, the schedule of meetings, etc. It was decided to hold the next meeting on August 8. All those present took up the commitment to bring 4 past pupils each for the next meeting. Given the high level of energy and enthusiasm at this first meeting, we are optimistic that this Unit will see some great days ahead!