Some Endings, Some Beginnings

The academic year 2020-2021 was like no other. The traditional classroom was given a breather, the terms ‘social distancing’, ‘sanitization’ and ‘quarantine’ became common vocabulary while online teaching and learning was trending! The outgoing batch of 2020-2021 was also like no other. The students became agile at balancing their studies with fests and other activities – all in a virtual space. They bonded, they supported and they succeeded to make it to the end. The management of SJBHS decided to give these very students a first and last offline event - the Valedictory held on Friday, March 12, 2021, to cherish and to treasure through their lives.

The setting sun threw its golden rays on the valedictorians of the outgoing batch of 10 and 12 as they were led into the SJBHS grounds by the Principal Fr Sunil Fernandes SJ. The banner before them read ‘Men and Women for Others’, reminding each one of their purpose. The valedictorians were the special invitees to their own valedictory ceremony as parents and friends joined them online.

The ceremony began with the lighting of the lamp and a special prayer service to intercede to the Almighty for the spiritual, mental and physical wellbeing of all. The Welcome Address was delivered by the Principal followed by the valedictorian’s speech given by Lakshraj Malhotra of Std 12 and Aadyoth Channakeshav of Std 10. They spoke of their experiences in school, their gratitude to their teachers and the support staff and their apprehensions for the future. The solemn handing over of charge was completed with Shaun Sajan Thomas of Std 11 and Tarun Peter of Std 9 giving their response to the outgoing batch. The adulation for their seniors and the camaraderie was evident, in spite of the turmoil of the past year.

The Chief Guest, Dr Sudhir Krishnaswamy, Vice Chancellor & Director, National Law School of India University, and Old Boy addressed the audience on the importance of developing social consciousness and the need to assimilate social success along with personal success. After his inspiring speech, the students received their graduation certificates and yearbook. A segment of the programme was dedicated to vocals accompanied by instrumental music by the outgoing students as well as their teachers. The Josephite spirit came through as students lit their candles to the strains of the song ‘Carry your Candle’ – a poignant reminder that they were leaving the secure portals of SJBHS to go into the world, armed with the values they had imbibed in school, to carve their own niche in a world full of opportunities.