St. Peter's Association Mumbai Sponsors Annual Uniform Distribution at Maryknoll School
-News n Pics : Prof.P.Archibald Furtado
Barkur, June 20, 2025 – Maryknoll Higher Primary School in Hosala, Barkur, celebrated its Annual Free Uniform and Notebook Distribution Ceremony today, marking the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year with generosity and community spirit. The event, held at the school auditorium, was sponsored by the St. Peter's Association (Barkur) Mumbai, continuing their tradition of supporting rural education.
Distinguished Guests Grace the Occasion
Mr. Boniface Sequeira, President of St. Peter's Association (Barkur) Mumbai, served as the Chief Guest for the ceremony. The event brought together several prominent community members, including Mr. Rama Poojari, President of PTA-MHPS, Prof. P. Archibald Furtado, Secretary of MHPS Senior Students Association, and alumni Mr. Ivan Suares and Mr. Norman T. D'Souza.
Although Rev. Fr. Ronald Miranda, the school correspondent and Parish Priest of St. Peter's Church, could not attend due to urgent commitments, his spiritual support and encouraging words to the organizers inspired all participants.
Community Support Recognized
The ceremony featured the unveiling of a commemorative plaque acknowledging all donors and contributors, primarily comprising former students from near and far. This gesture symbolized the school's gratitude for the sustained support from its alumni network.
Headmistress Mrs. Joyce V D'Sa welcomed the guests and expressed heartfelt appreciation to SPA Mumbai and all donors for their unwavering commitment to inclusive education. She emphasized the school's mission to provide quality education to all students regardless of their economic background.
Inspiring Messages for Students
Chief Guest Mr. Boniface Sequeira, recalling his own days as a student and School Pupil Leader at Maryknoll, delivered an inspiring address to the children. He urged them to "dream big, work hard, respect elders and teachers, and embrace values of simplicity and kindness." While expressing concern about declining enrollment numbers, he assured that there would be no compromise on educational quality.
Prof. Archibald Furtado reaffirmed the Senior Students Association's commitment to supporting economically disadvantaged students under the patronage of Mother Mary. Mr. Ivan Suares engaged directly with students, encouraging them to develop clear visions for their futures and work diligently from an early age to achieve their goals.
Seamless Organization
The event's success was attributed to the coordinated efforts of Mr. Karamchand Sequeira, Honorary President and Member of MHPS Senior Students Association, along with office bearers, teachers, and committee members. Teacher Sangeeta's presentation of the distribution ceremony was particularly appreciated by attendees.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks by teacher Dimple D'souza, who encouraged all young learners to strive for academic excellence. Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, Mr. Ivan Suares sponsored refreshments and sweets for all students present.
A Tradition of Giving Back
This annual ceremony represents more than just the distribution of school supplies; it embodies the strong bond between Maryknoll School and its extended community. The consistent support from St. Peter's Association Mumbai and the school's alumni network demonstrates how educational institutions can thrive through collective community effort.
The newly distributed uniforms and notebooks will serve students throughout the academic year, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their educational journey. This initiative reflects the broader commitment to making quality education accessible to all children in the rural Barkur region.