The Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy, in collaboration with the Catholic Sabha, Bondel Unit, organised a special Teachers’ Day programme to honour the teachers of Bondel Parish on Sunday, 6 September 2026, at 4.00 p.m. in the Church Hall.

The programme commenced at 4.00 p.m. with the rendition of “Bharata Jananiya Tanujate,” the Karnataka State Anthem. Mr Joachim Stany Alvares, President of the Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy, warmly welcomed and honoured all the dignitaries on the dais, along with the members of the Catholic Sabha and the KKSA , by presenting them with a shawl, memento, and a souvenir

The programme was graced by the presence of Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Mangalore, as the Chief Guest. Mr Joachim Stany Alvares, President of the Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy, and Rev. Fr Basil Vas, Rector of St Lawrence Shrine and Church, Bondel, were the Guests of Honour. Tr Jessy Cutinha, a retired teacher from Kinnigoly Parish and Mr Sujay D’Silva President Catholic Sabha Bondel

Present for the programme were Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, Principal of St. Lawrence English Medium School; Rev. Fr Lawrence Cutinha, Assistant Priest; Mr John D’Silva, Vice President of the Parish Pastoral Council; Mr Alvin Saldanha, Secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council; and Prof. Stephen Quadras.

The programme was inaugurated by the dignitaries on the dais through the traditional lighting of the lamp, symbolising the dispelling of darkness and the spreading of knowledge and wisdom.

In his address, Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Mangalore, highlighted three important aspects of teaching: information, formation and transformation. He cited the example of Malala Yousafzai to emphasise the power of education in transforming lives. Addressing the teachers, he said that for Christians, teaching is not merely a profession but a mission and a special, precious blessing.

He urged teachers to carry out their mission with love and selfless service, reminding them that this is one of the ways to honour God. The Bishop Emeritus also congratulated the recipients of the District-Level and State-Level Best Teacher Awards and appreciated all the teachers present at the programme.

Tr. Praveen Cutinha of Bondel Parish, recipient of the District-Level Best Teacher Award, was felicitated by Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza with a shawl, memento and souvenir in recognition of his achievement.

Mr Jason Fernandes introduced Mr Roshan Alexander Pinto to the gathering and highlighted his achievements and accomplishments.

Tr Roshan Alexander Pinto, recipient of the State-Level Best Teacher Award, was also felicitated by the dignitaries on the dais with a garland, shawl, memento, peta , and fruits in recognition of his outstanding achievement.

In his message, Tr Roshan Alexander Pinto shared that a teacher should serve with sincerity, honesty and love. He expressed his gratitude to the organisers for recognising and felicitating him on his achievement.

Rev. Fr Basil Vas, Rector of St Lawrence Shrine, in his brief message, said that a teacher, through dedicated service, has the power to transform society and that teaching is truly a mission. He wished all the teachers a happy and meaningful Teachers’ Day.

The Resource Person, Tr Jessy Cutinha, was introduced to the gathering by Tr Olivia D’Sa.

Tr Jessy Cutinha, the Resource Person of the day, said that teaching is a mission, not merely an occupation. A teacher plays many roles in a child’s life—as a mother, friend and guide—and is truly blessed. In today’s digital world, she stressed the need to give children love, attention and human connection. Sharing her experiences as a teacher, she reminded everyone that a teacher is a role model who shapes the future of society.

Marking the 30th death anniversary of the late Bishop Basil D’Souza, his portrait was placed at the side of the dais. The dignitaries and those present paid floral tribute by offering flower petals in honour of his selfless service and lasting contributions. The dignitaries and those present paid floral tribute by offering flower petals, honouring his selfless service and remembering his lasting contributions to the Diocese of Mangalore & Gulberga.

Prof. Stephen Quadras, principal and renowned writer, was introduced to the gathering by Mr Wilfred Alvares, who highlighted his life, achievements and contributions to the Konkani language.

A special segment of the programme remembered the late Bishop Basil D’Souza on his 30th death anniversary. Prof. Stephen Quadras engaged in a dialogue with Bishop Emeritus Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza and Rev. Fr Basil Vas, recalling the life and legacy of the great shepherd born in Bondel Parish.

Bishop Basil D’Souza was remembered for his simplicity, humility and deep love for the poor and needy. His invaluable contribution to Konkani literature, the Konkani Mass and the Church will always remain unforgettable.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Mr Sujay D’Silva, who expressed his sincere gratitude to the dignitaries, organisers, teachers and all those who contributed towards making the celebration meaningful and successful. The programme was beautifully compered and conducted by Mr Wilfred Alvares.

At the conclusion of the programme, refreshments were served to all the participants. As a Teachers’ Day remembrance, a small gift was presented to all the teachers present. The programme concluded with the singing of the Thanksgiving Hymn.

The Teachers’ Day celebration was a beautiful occasion to recognise and honour the dedicated service, commitment and invaluable contribution of teachers in shaping the lives of children and building a better society.

Photography :Stanley Bantwal

Report :Meena Serrao Barboza