Annual Free Uniform and Notebook Distribution Ceremony:Maryknoll Higher Primary School, Hosala, Bark

By Joyce V. DSa
Pics by Renita DSouza
Bellevision Media Network

Udupi/Barkur: With immense joy and heartfelt gratitude, Maryknoll Higher Primary School, Hosala, Barkur hosted the Annual Free Uniform and Notebook Distribution Ceremony for the academic year 2025–26 on Friday, 20th June 2025. This heart-warming initiative was made possible by the St. Peter’s Association (Barkur), Mumbai, whose continued dedication to nurturing rural education and empowering young learners was deeply appreciated.

 

The event took place at the Maryknoll School Auditorium and was scheduled to be presided over by Rev. Fr. Ronald Miranda, the Correspondent of MHPS and Parish Priest of St. Peter’s Church, Barkur. Although Fr. Miranda was unable to attend in person due to pressing commitments, his spiritual presence and encouraging message uplifted the spirits of everyone involved.

 

Guests and Dignitaries

The ceremony was graced by a host of distinguished guests, with Mr. Boniface Sequeira, President of SPA (Barkur) Mumbai, serving as the Chief Guest. His magnanimous leadership and generous support through SPA Mumbai were met with heartfelt gratitude by the entire school community.

 

The following Guests of Honour added to the significance of the occasion:

Mr. Rama Poojari, President of PTA - MHPS

Prof. P. Archibald Furtado, Secretary, MHPS Senior Students Association

Mr. Ivan Suares, Former Treasurer of SPA and proud alumnus of MHPS

Mr. Norman T. D’Souza, Vice President of SPA and alumnus of MHPS

Mr. Ralph Monthero, old student and well-wisher

 

In their respective addresses, the dignitaries lauded the collective efforts of the Headmistress, teaching staff, parents, and old students. They emphasized the crucial role of community support in uplifting rural education and empowering the next generation.

Highlights of the Ceremony:

The joyous distribution of uniform sets and notebooks brought smiles and excitement to the faces of the young students, reflecting the impact of such generous acts of kindness.

 

In her warm welcome address, Mrs. Joyce V D’Sa, the Headmistress of MHPS, expressed deep gratitude to SPA Mumbai and all donors for their unwavering support. She reaffirmed the school’s mission to provide inclusive and quality education to every child, regardless of their socio-economic background.

 

Special appreciation was extended to Mr. Karamchand Sequeira, Hon. President and active member of the MHPS Senior Students Association, whose timely support, along with the dedicated efforts of other office bearers, teachers, and committee members, ensured the smooth execution of the programme.

 

As a token of appreciation, a plaque displaying the names of all donors and contributors, mainly former students from near and far, was unveiled during the function—symbolizing the school’s sincere gratitude.

 

Inspirational Messages:

Chief Guest Mr. Boniface Sequeira, reminiscing his days as an SPL at Maryknoll, urged the students to dream big, work hard, and always show respect to elders and teachers, while upholding values of simplicity and kindness. He also expressed concern about declining student numbers, while commending the school for never compromising on the quality of education.

 

Prof. Archibald Furtado, Secretary of the MHPS SSA, reiterated the association’s commitment to supporting economically disadvantaged students and encouraged everyone to stay united under the care of Mother Mary, the patroness of the school.

 

Mr. Ivan Suares engaged in an interactive session with the students, encouraging them to set clear goals and pursue them with dedication from an early stage.

 

The programme concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by teacher Ms. Dimple D’Souza, who also extended words of encouragement, urging the students to strive for excellence in all their endeavours.

 

A simple yet memorable distribution ceremony, beautifully compeered by teacher Ms. Sangeeta, was one of the highlights of the morning, earning much admiration from the audience.

 

Adding a sweet touch to the event, Mr. Ivan Suares generously sponsored refreshments and sweets for all the students present.

 

Conclusion:

This meaningful event reaffirmed the power of collaboration between the school, alumni, and well-wishers in shaping a brighter future for rural children. Maryknoll Higher Primary School remains ever grateful to SPA Mumbai and all its supporters for lighting the path of education with kindness and commitment.