WADALA, FEBRUARY 02, 2012: The striking backdrop on Republic Day had the words 'Though so many, We are One'. This aptly reflected the patriotic sentiments of all the staff and students of St. Joseph's High School, Wadala on this significant day of the nation.
The programme began at 9 a.m. with the grand NCC Guard of Honour welcoming our guests and dignitaries: the SSC toppers of our school – Umang Thakker and Aman Jobanputra along with their parents, the members of the management – Fr. Godfrey D'Sa, Fr. Bernard Fernandes, Fr. Vivian D'Souza, Ms Nicole Britto, Mrs Sangita the secondary supervisor and Mrs Matilda the Primary Head Mistress.
The parents of Umang and Aman did the honours of hoisting the national flag to a solemn salute and the rendition of the national anthem. The pledge was then taken by all present as a mark of respect for our motherland. A spectacular march past by the NCC squad trained by Mr. Raj, followed thereafter.
The Guests of Honour – Umang and Aman, together with their parents, were then felicitated with a floral tribute, and the two ex-students were commended for their achievements and excellent performance at the SSC examination.
A speech by Master Abhjay Narayan underlined the significance of January 26 with some practical and honest resolutions for each of us. Master Vismit Chavan then related in detail the cultural diversity of India and highlighted the beauty of our motherland through a poem titled 'India – Our Nation'. Later, a verse from the Bhagvad Gita was recited to stress the need for peace in our world and in our hearts. Subsequently, an astonishing dance by a group of our students exhibited the significant features of the different states of India thus effectively bringing out the message: 'Unity in Diversity'.
The outstanding students of every class from Std. I to Std. IX were awarded prizes and certificates at a glittering prize distribution ceremony. Master Aman and Master Umang addressed the staff and the students immediately after that. It was an honest appeal to the students of Std. X to work hard for their upcoming exams and to refrain from distractions. They attributed their success to the care and loving guidance of all the teachers beginning from Pre-Primary right up to Std. X.
The well organized Republic Day programme concluded with the vote of thanks by the Principal, Fr. Bernard Fernandes.
Salute to our motherland!