Bangladesh: Bonpara St. Joseph’s College celebrates 10 years of excellence

St. Joseph’s School and College in Bonpara, under the Diocese of Rajshahi, Bangladesh, celebrated the 10th anniversary of its college section with a grand reunion of students on October 4.

The celebration, held on the college premises, brought together present and former students, teachers, and guests to honor a decade of academic excellence and community service.

The event was presided over by Dr. Fr. Shankar Dominic Gomes, Principal of St. Joseph’s School and College, while Bishop Emmanuel K. Rozario of Barishal Diocese graced the occasion as the chief guest. Among the distinguished attendees were Ms. Laila Jannatul Ferdous, Baraigram Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO); Fr. Dilip S. Costa, Chairman of the School Governing Body; and Advocate John Gomes, Vice Chairman of the Christian Welfare Trust, along with other dignitaries and well-wishers.

In his keynote address, Bishop Rozario described St. Joseph’s as a “three-in-one institution”, a unified center of primary, secondary, and higher education that radiates quality, discipline, and moral formation. “This college has become a trusted name for academic integrity and human values in the region,” he said. Addressing alumni and current students, he added, “Support your alma mater during its trials and triumphs alike. Safeguard its values and continue to be its pride.”

In his presidential remarks, Fr. Shankar Dominic Gomes expressed deep appreciation for the teachers, students, parents, and benefactors who have contributed to the institution’s success over the years. “Let us continue to live by our guiding motto, Learn and Serve,” he said. “True Josephites must strive to lead with compassion, discipline, and a spirit of service for the betterment of society.”

UNO Ms. Laila Jannatul Ferdous praised the school’s commitment to fostering both intellectual and moral education. “St. Joseph’s has built an environment that inspires learning and nurtures human values,” she noted. “It stands as a shining example of educational excellence and community contribution.”

The program began with a colorful welcome, including dance performances, floral greetings, and the presentation of badges and shawls, followed by the national anthem, flag hoisting, lighting of ceremonial lamps, and the release of festoons.

Several alumni shared emotional tributes to their alma mater. “St. Joseph’s is more than an institution, it’s our second home,” said one alumnus. Another recalled, “We fondly remember the late Fr. Lazarus Rozario, the founding principal, whose vision continues to inspire us.”

The celebration concluded with a vibrant cultural program and a lively musical performance that filled the campus with joy and gratitude.

Founded by Italian missionary fathers, Bonpara St. Joseph’s School and College has long been a cornerstone of education and moral development in northern Bangladesh. Established initially as a small parish primary school in 1940, it later expanded into a high school and, in 2015, into a college. This year’s anniversary marks a decade of steadfast commitment to shaping responsible, faith-driven citizens dedicated to learning and service.