The grand spotlight of the day, Black or White – A Rhythmic Reckoning, conveyed a powerful message on “inner engineering”. On April 22, 2026, in keeping with tradition, Annual Day at Don Bosco High School, Panjim was celebrated with great pomp and fervour. The evening was a vibrant tapestry of talent, gratitude, and inspiration, witnessed by a packed venue of parents, alumni and well-wishers. The event was graced by Alexandre Moniz Barbosa, an independent journalist, writer and  editor of Goa Daily  as the Chief Guest. In his keynote address, Barbosa lauded the school’s commitment to holistic education and urged students to remain curious, compassionate, and courageous in a rapidly changing world. He also appreciated the Annual School Report 2025-26, presented by the coordinators, which highlighted the school’s academic achievements, co-curricular milestones, and community initiatives through the year. The cultural segment opened with heart-warming performances on “Zoo” from Zootopia by the pre-primary section. Their innocent expressions and colourful costumes set a joyful tone for the evening. This was followed by the primary section students who captivated the audience with energetic dance on “Fireworks”, drawing loud applause. A solemn and emotional moment followed as the school felicitated five retiring teachers—Tr. Cheryl Prazeres, Sir Rapose Francis, Tr. Sanderina Andrade, Sir Dattaram Kerkar, and Sir Dominic Gomes for their decades of selfless service. Silver Jubilitarian Tr Rekha Madkaikar, who completed 25 years of service at Don Bosco, was also honoured at the event. Their contribution to shaping generations was honoured with mementoes and citations. The highlight of the evening was the grand musical Black or White presented by the middle and high school students. Through awesome acting, energetic dance sequences, and soulful singing, the musical conveyed a powerful message on “inner engineering” – that true change begins within, and harmony is found when we look beyond external differences. The seamless coordination, striking visuals, and compelling storyline left the audience deeply moved. The entire evening was navigated flawlessly by our student comperes, who anchored the programme with poise and confidence, ensuring smooth transitions and an engaging flow. With gratitude, we salute our teachers for their hard work, patience and their pursuit for perfection in training the students. Annual Day 2026 concluded with the vote of thanks by our Headmaster Fr Avin Carvalho. The school anthem was sung with great fervour, resonating with the ethos, leaving everyone with a sense of pride, nostalgia, and renewed purpose. It was truly an evening where talent met tribute, and learning met celebration. As we carry these memories forward, we are reminded of the enduring Don Bosco spirit — to learn with joy, to serve with humility, and to grow into responsible, compassionate individuals. Guided by his teachings, may we continue to walk the path of reason, religion, and loving-kindness, striving not only for excellence but also for goodness in all that we do.

With over nine participating schools, the event recognised the talent of many budding artists in Goa including two students from DBHS-Panjim. The FilmIt Club of Don Bosco High School, Panjim, successfully hosted and organised this year’s INTACH Filmit Festival on the school campus. Over nine schools joined the festival with around 70 participants including teachers and students attending the day-long event. It was a vibrant celebration of creativity and heritage filmmaking. Dr Isabel Santa Rita Vaz, a playwright, theatre director and founder of the Mustard Seed Art Company, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Dr Vaz encouraged the students to boldly pursue creative expression. Also joining the festival as a speaker was Fatima Gracias, convenor, INTACH Goa Chapter, who spoke about ongoing projects by Intach HECS (Heritage Education and Communication Service) in Goa. The festival was also honoured by the presence of Purnima Datt, principal director, HECS, who gave an introduction on the origin of FILMIT club and its purpose, which was followed by the screening of selected films such as Kingfisher Diaries and Goan Heritage. The festival concluded with students of the different schools being commended for their outstanding work. Don Bosco High School’s Prathamesh H (XA) won Best Film for ‘Mission Failed: Hasn’t It?’ The short film revolves around a school's observance of gratitude day. It distinctly presents the narrative from three separate perspectives: the school head boy, the class monitor, and the class students. Speaking about the project, Prathamesh explained, “The film integrates mild comedy, plot twists, and unforeseen progressions. It effectively communicates the importance of  leadership and the valuable insights adapted from errors.” For his short film ‘Godde’, Cansio D (VI B) won the Best Interactive Film award. The film captures the nostalgic charm of the kids marble game (goti) while also exploring its history and popularity. Shot in Nikon Z50, the three-minute film was captured, directed and edited by the student himself. Many such enthusiastic entries were recognised and awarded at the end of the festival. The FilmIT club is committed to nurturing and encouraging budding artists and filmmakers in their creative pursuits.  

Students attended an informative seminar on safe online engagement and how to report suspicious/harmful behaviours in the digital space On January 6, 2026, the Directorate of Education, Government of Goa, organised a Cyber Safety and Digital Awareness Workshop at Mushtifund School, Cujira. The workshop was led by Dr. Rakshit Tandon, a renowned cybercrime expert. The session focused on educating students about safe browsing habits, understanding cyberbullying, social media safety, and protecting personal data on the internet. Important issues such as online gaming safety, sextortion awareness, and reporting mechanisms for suspicious or uncomfortable online behaviour were also addressed. The workshop was informative and interactive, helping students become more aware of responsible digital behaviour and equipping them with practical knowledge to stay safe in the online environment.  

Retired Air Vice Marshal Giles Gomez offered an in-depth look into this lesser known world that included not just his service in Jammu Kashmir but also his foray in aeromedical sciences. As part of the on-going career guidance initiative, the school welcomed Air Vice Marshal (Dr) Giles Gomez VSM (retired) to conduct a meaningful, explorative session on the life of an Indian Armed Force personnel. Ever since Gomes hung up his uniform and returned to his home state, Goa, he has been committed to highlighting the good work being done by the dedicated IAF.  Gomez shared his personal career trajectory which started after he graduated from the prestigious Armed Forces Medical College,Pune, and thereafter was commissioned in the Armed Forces as a medical officer. He served his first five years in the Army and was posted at the Line of Control on the western sector and at high altitude in  Jammu & Kashmir, where he was involved in live operations.  Students also learnt about the Air Force, where Gomes specialised in Aerospace Medicine. In 1989 he was sent for further studies with the Royal Air Force in the UK and became the first Indian national to obtain a post graduate Diploma in Aerospace Medicine from the Royal College of Physicians London.  It was intriguing for the students to learn about the ample learning opportunities available in the IAF. Gomes spoke about his training in Space Medicine at NASA Johnson Space Centre, Houston, USA after which he became a NASA certified Astronaut Medical Trainer. Recipient of the Vishisht Seva Medal by the honorable President of India in 2011, Gomes also walked through his time commanding the Aeromedical Training Centre at Hindon, UP, and the prestigious Institute of Aerospace Medicine in Bangalore. He was instrumental in setting up the Space Medicine facilities at Bangalore, which is being used for the current ISRO Gaganyan Space Program. Students were amazed to discover the different areas of service and specialisations that are possible in the IAF. It was a truly enlightening and much appreciated session.  

Fr. Clive Teles’ provincial visit to the school was a “homecoming” event bringing back cherished memories Don Bosco High School, Panjim, had the honour of welcoming the provincial Rev. Fr. Clive Teles, during his annual Provincial Visitation on December 17, 2025. The occasion held special significance as Don Bosco Panjim, established 79 years ago, is the cradle of the Salesian presence in the region, standing as a beacon of Salesian education and values that continue the rich legacy envisioned by St. John Bosco. Fr. Teles graced the assembly of the high school section, marking a significant moment for the students and staff. As part of his pastoral responsibility, he visited 19 other Don Bosco institutions across the province. Reflecting on his earlier years at Don Bosco Panjim, where he had served for a few years, he described the visit as a “homecoming,” filled with fond memories and gratitude. Addressing the students, Fr. Teles emphasised that they not only wear the uniform of Don Bosco School but also embody the spirit of Don Bosco. Highlighting St. John Bosco’s teachings, he reminded the students that true character is reflected in being honest even when no one is watching. He reiterated that Salesian institutions are committed to holistic education, nurturing young minds to become responsible, honest, and compassionate citizens. He noted that over 410 Don Bosco institutions across India have been imparting quality education to the young, preparing them for life and service to society. In his concluding message, Fr. Teles extended his best wishes to the Class X students, encouraging them to face their forthcoming board examinations with confidence, discipline, and faith. The visit was both inspiring and affirming, strengthening the Salesian spirit among the students and staff of Don Bosco High School, Panjim. Fr. Teles along with our Principal, Fr. Avin Carvalho, also released the school bulletin Rhapsody, the last-quarter special seasonal Christmas edition. The visit served as a powerful reminder of the school’s mission to educate hearts as well as minds, echoing Don Bosco’s words, “Education is a matter of the heart.”

The school won six trophies and emerged as overall champions at the annual interschool event promoting green awareness  It was an historic moment for Don Bosco High School Panjim when it clinched the championship trophy at Ecofiesta 2025. Organised by the Auxilium High School (Caranzalem), Ecofiesta 2025 is an annual interschool competition wherein eight schools actively promoted eco-friendly ideas in a creative and competitive environment. The event was held on November 28, 2025.  Keenan D (IX), who won the first place in the t-shirt painting competition Eco-Art, created an inspiring handpainted design showcasing his dream for a greener and better future for the earth. Zubin D (VIII) and Shritij K (IX) won first place in the skit competition Eco-Dialogue, wherein they presented an animated interaction between two elements of nature, mainly a bird and a tree. Nathan G (IX) and Rahul S (VIII) won third place in Eco-Quiz competition that covered a multitude of environmental topics and issues. Grayden F (IX) submitted an impressive entry for Eco Expressions, the theme being “Wings of Goa” that put a spotlight on unique bird species found in the state. The winning group had the dynamic support of a strong behind-the-scenes team, namely Faizan K, McAiden S, Aldrich X, Justin A and Valen F. All the participating students were trained and supported by high school co-ordinators Julius F and Eustargia R.

For the first time in school history the game included a female player joining the otherwise all-boys team The management and staff of Don Bosco Night High School and Don Bosco Night Higher Secondary School organised a football match to celebrate the students of both institutions on November 14, 2025, on account of Children's Day. The match was played largely by the Arts and Commerce section with Class 9 and Class 10 students joining in to strengthen the team. By joining the all-boys group, Class XI Commerce student Shanti made history as the first and only female player to join a school sports event. The students were thrilled to find Aaron Cardoso, a referee of national repute and alumni of the high school, officiate the match. The game witnessed an exemplary display of team spirit by the commerce group. They won the match with an impressive score of 4-0 with student Mario as the top scorer of the match.  Night School Manager Fr. Avin Carvalho addressed the students before the match and motivated them to bring the same enthusiasm to school everyday. The match ended with refreshments for all and a big sense of satisfaction in everyone's hearts.

The school’s counselling department organised an impactful series of seminars as part of the academic year’s career guidance initiative.  The month of October 2025 was an informative month for our Class X students who will soon embark on a new chapter in their lives. Through a series of well-structured and impactful career workshops, the students got to broaden their understanding on what’s next for them in line with their personal interests and aspirations. Each session provided valuable exposure to various professions, enabling students to make informed and confident decisions about their future academic and career paths. Our Future Leaders On October 3, 2025, an inspiring session titled “Our Future Leaders” was conducted by Allwyn Sequeira. His impactful and motivational workshop focused on growth, resilience, and self-belief. The session encouraged the Class X students to adopt a positive mindset and pursue their goals with confidence and determination. His passion and energy left a lasting impression on the students, helping them reflect on their personal development and leadership potential. Higher Secondary Choices On October 14, 2025, Menino Furtado provided Class X students with a comprehensive overview of career options across various academic streams—science, commerce, and arts. Mr. Furtado discussed emerging fields, skill requirements, and future job trends, helping students make informed decisions about their academic and career paths. The workshop was thought-provoking and helped clarify many doubts among students regarding subject selection and professional choices. Engineering On October 15, 2025, the faculty from Don Bosco College of Engineering, Fatorda–Margao, comprising Prof. Yeshudas Muttu – Electronics and Computer Science, Dr. Chetan Gaonkar – Mechanical Engineering, Prof. Jeffery Valadares – Civil Engineering, and Prof. Viosha Cruz – Computer Engineering conducted a highly engaging and interactive session that provided students with in-depth knowledge of the engineering field. Each faculty member explained their respective branches, the career prospects, and academic requirements for pursuing engineering. The session enabled students to understand the diverse opportunities within the engineering sector and inspired them to explore their interests in science and technology further. Merchant Navy and Seafaring On October 13, 2025, Deepak Souza, Heston Dias, and Nelson Fernandes of the Goa Maritime Officers Association (GMOA) introduced the students to the career opportunities in the Merchant Navy and Seafaring sector. The speakers explained the eligibility requirements, various courses, fee structures, and loan facilities available for aspiring candidates. The workshop gave students a clear understanding of the lifestyle, discipline, and dedication required in this career path, motivating many to consider it as a viable and rewarding profession.

A former student of Don Bosco returns to the campus to sow seeds of enthusiasm among young aspiring gardeners We recently welcomed back one of our past pupils, Cleto Fernandes, this time as workshop speaker. Fernandes is presently pursuing his higher studies in agriculture, and is deeply passionate about plants and nature.  His love for greenery truly shines through his words and work. He conducted an interactive session on kitchen gardening for the students of Class VI and shared the thrill of creating his own successful gardens and farms. During his talk, Fernandes guided the students through every step of the process—from sowing seeds and nurturing seedlings to creating compost and finally harvesting the produce. The session was lively and informative, with students eagerly asking questions, all of which Fernandes answered with enthusiasm and clarity. His practical tips and genuine passion inspired everyone to try growing their own plants at home. It was truly an enriching and inspiring experience for our young learners. We thank Fernandes for sharing his knowledge and wish him continued success in all his future endeavours.

Earlier this month, high school students participated in an interactive and comprehensive session on HIV/AIDS  A special awareness program on HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) was conducted by the Goa State AIDS Control Society (GSACS) at Don Bosco High School Panjim. Attended by students of Class 9, the informative program fostered an environment of open dialogue and encouraged destigmatisation of social issues among the younger generation.  Speaker Arpita Korgaonkar from GSACS conducted the interactive talk and highlighted important aspects of HIV prevention, causes, and the myths related to the disease. Students were informed about the modes of transmission, the importance of preventive practices, and the need to show empathy and support towards people living with HIV. The session, which was facilitated by the school’s Red Cross club, also emphasised on the role of the younger generation in raising awareness, making healthy lifestyle choices, and becoming responsible citizens. Students actively participated by asking questions and sharing their views, making the programme highly engaging and informative. The school expressed gratitude to GSACS for their efforts in educating the students and empowering them with the knowledge to contribute towards a healthier society.

The club’s recent photowalk encouraged a deep dive of beloved, local architectural gems, with their experience captured in a treasured collection of photographs  The shutterbugs of the FilmIT club of Don Bosco High School Panjim went on a memorable photographic expedition on September 23, 2025. Over 40 students from Class V to X explored the Old Goa church complex under the guidance of teachers Grisha Paiva, Hayden Gonsalves, and Julius Fernandes. This year’s expedition was also mentored by photographer Lynden Barreto.  Equipped with their personal cameras, students were encouraged to capture architectural elements, human activity and still moments that were visible in the heritage precinct. While these were familiar sites for the students, they were guided to explore the arena through the creative lens of their budding photography skills. With eager eyes and fresh minds, the students captured one heritage site after another, enhancing their skills with each single click.  The walk covered significant landmarks such as the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, notable sites around the Archeological Museum, Chapel of St. Catherine, St. Cajetan Church, Convent of Santa Monica and Chapel of Weeping Cross, and Ruins of the Church of St. Augustine. The teachers as well as mentor Barreto guided the students to observe and notice hidden details as well as the everyday life unfolding around the heritage complex. Students were also given feedback after each capture, which allowed them to refine their skills on the spot.  Looking back at their captures, students shared good insights on what they had learned on the walk. For example, student Aarav Redkar of Class VIII A offered the following caption for one of his images:  “The lone St. Augustine Tower rises like a timeless sentinel, its weathered bricks whispering forgotten tales of Goa’s golden past. Mirrored in a rain-puddle, it seems to stand twice—once in history, once in memory.” After this enriching expedition, the FilmIT club returned to the school campus with a treasure trove of photographs. Here’s a preview of this year’s memorable photowalk.  

Students were fascinated to see scientific concepts being used in real-life applications   On August 5 & 7, students of fifth standard went on an educational tour to the Goa Science Centre & Planetarium, Miramar. The visit was both enjoyable and informative, giving the students an opportunity to learn through observation and hands-on experience.  They explored various exhibits related to physics, chemistry, biology, and astronomy. The interactive models and experiments sparked their curiosity and encouraged them to think scientifically. The highlight of the visit was the 3D show, the science magic show and the planetarium, which made learning more exciting. Overall, the tour was a memorable experience, helping students to connect classroom lessons with real-life applications. Excursions like this play an important role in education as they take learning beyond the classroom, provide real-world exposure, and make concepts easier to understand. They also help in developing social skills, teamwork, and a spirit of inquiry among students.

The school event proclaimed a definitive message: in freedom, we find roots; in goodness, we find growth; in hope, we find forever. On 15th August 2025, Don Bosco High School, Panjim, celebrated Independence Day with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervour. All sections gathered on campus to mark the occasion in the presence of the Chief Guest Shri Rohit Monserrate, the honourable Mayor of the City of Panjim. The oath was administered by the Headmaster Fr. Avin Carvalho. The chief guest was given a warm welcome and escorted by the smartly turned-out National Cadet Corps, which added to the pride of the event. After the unfurling of the National Flag in the presence of dignitaries, staff, and students, the entire campus echoed with the strains of the national anthem, sung with pride and devotion. A striking highlight of the ceremony was the beautifully curated lotus backdrop, shaped as a vision built to last. The petals unstained, set free, invoked a quiet call—on what can be, in truth, together with goodness and beauty, marked with a hope that forever flows. This creative work, designed by the talented Visual Art crew of Don Bosco High School, provided a meaningful and symbolic setting for the day’s programme. The formal ceremony was followed by a cultural programme conducted by the students. As the melodious patriotic song Vande Matram filled the air, a choreographed routine was performed with passion, reverberating with the spirit of nationalism. A well-presented skit highlighted the values of freedom, evoked a sense of responsibility and good citizenship among the audience. The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the chief guest, the school management, teachers, students, and all who contributed to making the day memorable. The Independence Day celebration at Don Bosco High School was indeed a blend of pride, patriotism, creativity and promise for a brighter tomorrow.

In his recent talk, the rector inspired us to “not remain an outsider but be an insider in the Don Bosco spirit”. On October 11, Rev. Fr. Tamatur Cardozo, rector of Don Bosco, Panjim, addressed the staff of Don Bosco High School in an enriching and inspiring session. He spoke about the essence of the Don Bosco culture, emphasising how it gives every member of the institution a sense of pride, belongingness, growth, and happiness. Fr. Tamatur highlighted that this culture is not just a tradition but a living ideology that unites the Bosco family and calls for consistency and commitment in every educator. He reminded the staff that to be a true Bosco educator, one must embody the values and spirit of Don Bosco in thought, word, and action. To embrace the ethos of Don Bosco, tradition, the style of working, to believe and share the conviction which unifies us. He further emphasised the four pillars of Don Bosco institutions—God, Family, School, and Playground, which together form the foundation for nurturing students towards excellence, character, and holistic development. The session concluded with a renewed sense of purpose among the teachers, who felt motivated to carry forward the Don Bosco spirit in their classrooms and community.

Theatre artist and director Runal Kolkankar impressed on the participants the power of subtle, non-verbal communication. A mime workshop was organised for the students of Classes 8-9 on September 19-20. Teachers Hazel Carvalho and Janet Furtado das Chagas e Silva organised the workshop and were met with an enthusiastic response from the students. The final selection of participants was at the discretion of the teachers in charge. Held in the school’s multipurpose hall, the workshop was led by Runal Kolkankar, a theatre artist and director known for his expertise in mime, street plays and creative dramatics. Kolkankar, through several workshops across Goa, has inspired many young talents to explore theatre as a medium of expression. Assisting him was Sakshi Manjrekar, a dynamic facilitator of performing arts who specialises in activity-based learning and has experience working with students to build confidence and creativity through theatre. Teacher Mayuri Naik along with the teachers in-charge assisted in the smooth and effective flow of the workshop, which was held over the course of two days. The sessions proved to be highly interactive and practical, keeping the students fully engaged and enthralled. Kolkankar and Manjrekar introduced participants to the fundamentals of mime, focusing on body movement, facial expression, and the power of silence in communication. Students were encouraged to participate in warm-up activities, group tasks and short mime performances, which made the sessions lively and enjoyable. Through this enriching experience, students were given a unique opportunity to explore their creative side as well as appreciate the art of non-verbal communication.

Keeping the annual tradition alive, the students put together a heartfelt and well-executed Gratitude Day celebration. From entertaining performances to thoughtful gestures, Don Bosco High School students went the extra mile to express their thanks towards teachers and the school staff. The event, orchestrated by the student council, included a mix of reflective, creative, and entertaining segments. The day began with a special assembly conducted by the Nehru House and the teachers in-charge. Each year in the month of September, the school community comes together to acknowledge both the big and small contributions of the dedicated staff. This year not only did the staff receive beautiful handmade cards and flowers, many teachers and non-teaching staff were surprised and moved by the thoughtful, personal notes they received from the students. In individual classes, students put together a special program for their assigned teachers and staff. Students recited short gratitude speeches, performed meaningful songs and made colourful posters and decor; expressing their thanks in the most creative and joyful manner. Gratitude Day has always been an occasion for fellowship and community building in the school, and this year students and teachers made the best of this opportunity. For the entertainment portion of the day, a band of student musicians put together an electric performance. The teachers declared the show an absolute hit with their cheerful applause. After this musical extravagance, comedy was the next big hit. Headboy Prathamesh and his talented troupe performed a slapstick skit titled “Kaun Banega Roadpathi – Season Two”. There was room for more laughter with “Jeremy, We Have an English Problem”, a play inspired by the cherished old-school sitcom Mind Your Language. Through humorous dialogues, not only did the play entertain the audience but also subtly communicated the importance of clear communication, patience, and helping one another learn. A big shout out to former student Franklin Stephen who volunteered and created a beautiful Gratitude Day decor in the school lobby. The academic year theme, ‘Anchored in Hope, Rise in Hope’, was beautifully interpreted in the decor. An enchanting and inspiring design, it became the go-to selfie spot for teachers and students alike. Among all the pleasant memories made that day, there was a sense of renewed commitment towards the mission of the school and the joy of being part of a vibrant community.