News : Joyce Vandan DSa, Pics : Sangeetha
Hosala Barkur, July 11, 2025 — a vibrant and purposeful gathering took place on Friday at Maryknoll School, Hosala Barkur, as the Headmistress, staff, and management warmly welcomed the parents for a meaningful interaction focused on the all-round development of the students. The event, held in the School Hall, was a reflection of the institution’s commitment to transparency, cooperation, and inclusive education.
The program commenced with a soulful prayer that set the tone for the day, followed by a delightful welcome dance performed by the talented school children, capturing the hearts of all present.
Headmistress Mrs. Vandana D’Sa extended a heartfelt welcome to the dignitaries on the dais, including Correspondent Rev. Fr. Ronald Miranda, Vice President of the Parish Pastoral Council Mr. Joseph Fernandes, PTA President Mr. Ashok Poojary, Mr. Archibald Furtado, Secretary of the Senior Students Association, PTA Secretary Mrs. Meenakshi and all distinguished guests and enthusiastic parents who gathered in large numbers.
The meeting began with the reading of the previous session’s minutes by the teacher Ms. Shyamala followed by discussions on follow-up actions, highlighting the school’s commitment to continuous improvement and community involvement.
PTA President Mr. Ashok Poojary initiated a constructive discussion, focusing on the future of the 85-year-old Maryknoll School. He acknowledged the challenges faced by Kannada-medium primary schools and emphasized the importance of collective support from the management, alumni, and well-wishers. He expressed gratitude to all stakeholders who have been instrumental in supporting the school’s mission.
Mr. Archibald Furtado voiced concerns of Old Students about the declining student enrolment, urging the PTA and community members to work proactively to attract more children. He noted that the cost of running a class remains the same, whether there are 5 or 50 students, and stressed that the school’s resources should benefit as many children as possible. He also proposed closer collaboration with nearby Kannada-medium high schools to serve as feeder institutions and enhance the school’s sustainability.
Rev. Fr. Ronald Miranda, the school Correspondent, addressed the gathering with candour and compassion. He acknowledged the financial constraints faced in maintaining the school, yet reaffirmed that with the generous support of well-wishers—including SPA Barkur Mumbai, Mother Mary Charitable Trust, the all past students through 'Senior Students Association', and devoted parents—Maryknoll continues to offer quality, value-based education. He called on parents to take a more active role in supporting the school, as it plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of their children close to home.
The meeting witnessed fruitful discussions on several key issues; most resolved amicably and a few being addressed in the spirit of cooperation and shared responsibility. The community reaffirmed its commitment to Maryknoll’s mission of serving economically disadvantaged and marginalized families, without discrimination of caste, creed, or religion. Earlier,
Head mistress Mrs Joyce DSa, shared her experiences and appraised the department, School requirements and had few instructions to parents to adhere, in the interest of students community. She shared the daunting task of running a Kannada medium school and appreciated full cooperation from her teaching staff and parents.
The seamless proceeding anchored by Teacher Dimple and to conclude Teacher Sangeeta proposed vote of thanks.
As the session concluded, there was a renewed sense of unity and purpose among all present, with a collective pledge to support Maryknoll School in its journey of empowering young minds through education and values.