-With inputs from Johnson DAlmeida, Halekodi
In the realm of Jesuit education in India, one name stands out for its unwavering dedication and visionary leadership: Fr Rohan D Almeida. Born to Simon and Lilly D'Almeida in Barkur, Udupi District, Karnataka, Fr Rohan has become a beacon of hope and progress in the field of education and community development.
Fr Almeida's journey began with a solid educational foundation. He holds a Master's degree in Education from Kuvempu University and a Bachelor of Education from Bangalore University. His academic pursuits also led him to study Philosophy and Theology at the prestigious Jnana Deepa Vidya Peet in Pune. Additionally, he completed his Bachelor of Arts from Karnataka College, Dharwad, rounding out a comprehensive educational background that would serve him well in his future endeavors.
The professional path of Fr Rohan D Almeida is marked by a series of influential roles that showcase his commitment to education and his ability to lead and innovate. He began his career as an assistant teacher at St. Aloysius High School in Mangalore, followed by similar positions at St. Joseph's High School in Hassan and Loyola High School on Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore. These early experiences laid the groundwork for his future as an educational leader.
Fr Almeida's true impact began to unfold when he took on more significant responsibilities. He became the founding Principal of Xavier CBSE School in Manvi, where he also served as the founding Director of Loyola Hostels and Manager of Loyola School. His leadership skills were further demonstrated when he established and became the founding Principal of Loyola CBSE school in Bijapur District. In addition to his roles in formal education, Fr Almeida took on the position of Director at Sangama, a Center for Integral and Rural Development, showcasing his commitment to holistic community progress.
In Jesuit Community, Fr Rohan D Almeida has emerged as a key figure. In 2019, he was appointed as the coordinator of Jesuit secondary education, a role that encompasses overseeing 43 Karnataka Jesuit Secondary Schools. His influence extends beyond regional boundaries, as he actively participates in South Asian Jesuit Education Conferences, contributing to the broader landscape of Jesuit education in the region.
Fr Almeida's dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the Best School Principal award for his service to underprivileged children in Manvi, Raichur District. Under his leadership, Loyola School Manvi achieved 100% results, earning recognition from the Karnataka government. His commitment to community service was further highlighted when he was honored by Sindagi Town Municipality for his outstanding efforts during a drought period.
The impact of Fr Almeida's work extends to teacher training as well. The CBSE Chennai recognized him as a Resource Person for training teachers in creating Happy Classrooms, underscoring his expertise in fostering positive learning environments.
Most recently, Fr Rohan D Almeida's contributions to education were celebrated on a national platform. ENews Network awarded him the Certificate of Excellence as Dynamic Principal 2024, acknowledging his exemplary work in shaping the educational landscape.
Fr Almeida's journey from a classroom teacher to a visionary leader in education embodies the Jesuit commitment to serving others through knowledge and empowerment. His work continues to inspire educators, students, and communities across India, leaving an indelible mark on the nation's educational fabric.
As Fr Rohan D Almeida continues his mission, his story serves as a testament to the power of dedicated leadership in education. His multifaceted approach to learning, community development, and social service stands as a model for future generations of educators and social workers, promising a brighter future for countless individuals touched by his work.