-News : Dimple, Pics : Renita Lewis
“Be responsible citizens of tomorrow and honour the sacrifices of our national leaders who gave us freedom along with the Constitution,” urged Mr Felix Barnes, former SPA President, while addressing students during the 77th Republic Day celebrations at Maryknoll Higher Primary School, Hosala–Barkur, on 26 January 2026.
Despite the modest strength of students, the celebration was marked by enthusiasm, joy, and deep national pride, as children, teachers, alumni, and well-wishers gathered at 9.15 a.m. at the Maryknoll campus.
Mrs Joyce Vandan D’Sa, Headmistress, along with her dedicated staff, made meticulous arrangements to welcome the guests. In her homely and heartfelt welcome, she acknowledged the presence of distinguished alumni and well-wishers, including Mr Felix Barnes, who studied at Maryknoll in 1947; Mr Norman T. D’Souza, another senior SPA office bearer; Mr Archibald Furtado, Secretary of the MHPS Senior Students’ Association; Mr Darryl Banz, an alumnus of the 1960s; and other supporters of the institution. All guests were honoured with fresh roses as tokens of appreciation and gratitude.
An emotionally moved Mr Felix Barnes, now an octogenarian, was invited to unfurl the National Tricolour, accompanied by the youngest student of the school, creating a touching and symbolic moment. In his address, he praised the remarkable physical development of his alma mater, which was founded in 1940, while also expressing concern over the declining student strength, recalling days when the school had over 600 students. Assuring full support from the SPA, he appealed to students to motivate their neighbours and families to enrol children at Maryknoll in the coming academic year, so the institution may continue serving the poor and needy.
Mr Archibald Furtado shared insightful historical facts about the Indian Constitution, describing it as one of the world’s finest and urging students to treat it as sacred and foundational to public life.
Student representatives expressed their feelings through short speeches, reflecting pride and gratitude. The celebration concluded with delicious refreshments and sweets served to all.
Ms Shwetha Poojary teacher, gracefully proposed the vote of thanks, after which students participated in a colourful Republic Day parade, paid homage to freedom fighters and nation builders, honoured the National Flag, and sang the National Anthem, bringing the celebration to a dignified and joyful close.