Mangaluru: “Only when every Indian feels that India is our motherland can India become a world superpower through the power of unity and brotherhood. Our freedom fighters gave their lives, shed their blood and made immense sacrifices to secure the country’s freedom, leaving behind a priceless legacy for independent India,” said Fr. Rohan D’Almeida, S.J., Principal of St. Aloysius Gonzaga School.
He was inaugurating the Bagless Day programme organised for the students of Classes I and II on the theme ‘National Leaders and Freedom Fighters’ at St. Aloysius Gonzaga School on August 13.
Highlighting the significance of the Indian tricolour, Fr. Rohan called upon the little Gonzagaites to uphold the values of unity, justice, peace and harmony. “The truest way to honour our freedom fighters is to remember their ideals of patriotism, courage and sacrifice, and strive for the unity and progress of our nation,” he said.
Vice Principal Aparna Suresh said that Bagless Day provides students with a unique opportunity to experience learning beyond textbooks while nurturing their creativity and talents. She added that such experiential learning activities make education more enjoyable and help develop confidence, cooperation and practical skills among children.
The Bagless Day programme, themed ‘Learning Beyond Boundaries’, commenced with the lighting of the Mashal (Torch) of Remembrance by the Principal, Vice Principal and student representatives. Students enthusiastically participated in Zumba sessions and a variety of hands-on activities based on national symbols and national leaders. An open stage also provided the young learners with an opportunity to express their talents. Students confidently volunteered to present poems, songs, dances and other creative performances without prior preparation, making the session lively and engaging.
Academic Coordinator Carol Tina Rodrigues was present on the occasion. Avantika V. Shetty of Class II ‘D’ welcomed the gathering, while Vian N. Rao of Class II ‘C’ proposed the vote of thanks. The programme was compered by Abhiram Rai of Class II ‘B’ and Jeremy Jason Paul of Class II ‘D’.