by BIS Correspondent
MUMBAI, OCT 18, 2016: The Don Bosco Development Society (DBDS) held a graduation ceremony for 368 students - from the slums of Mumbai - who completed their vocational training in Computers (Basic and Tally), Beauty Care (Skin and Hair), Tailoring, Mehendi and Spoken English, on October 15 at Don Bosco International School, Matunga.
Father Rolvin D'Mello, Executive Director of DBDS, welcomed the Chief Guest, Father Maria Arokiam Kanaga, Regional Councillor of Don Bosco, South Asia and Father Glenford Lowe, Rector of Don Bosco Provincial House, Matunga.
The event began with a short prayer service. In his opening speech, Father Kanaga congratulated the students and applauded the visible Nari-Shakti (women power) for their perseverance.
He expressed his joy at the developmental initiatives of DBDS in the city of Mumbai. He also mentioned that Don Bosco facilities and infrastructure are not only meant for the elite class but also for the poor sections of the society.
Four graduating students then shared their experiences with the gathering. All expressed appreciation to Don Bosco for giving them top quality training, free of cost. Sabiya Shaikh who completed the beauty care course said, "If not for Don Bosco it wouldn't have been possible for me to do this course outside, given the high fees charged in other places."
Father D'Mello exhorted all the students to put their skill to use, by either finding a job or setting up a small scale enterprise. He also thanked the staff of DBDS and the teachers for their outreach to such a vast number of students.
A small cultural programme comprising a fashion show, dances and skits followed. There was also a exhibit of the handiwork of the graduating class. Enthused and skilled, the new students set out to make a mark for themselves, with deep gratitude to Don Bosco.