“By Labor, Establish Your Life”: An 85-Year- Old Catholic Educator’s Lifelong Mission in Bangladesh

“At my age, when I visit the USA, Canada, or Europe, former students come to meet me and show deep respect. Their love fills my heart. I feel my life as a teacher has truly been fruitful,” said Helen Rozario, the 85-year-old headmistress of St. Patrick’s Grammar School in Magbazar, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

A Catholic mother of eight, Rozario has dedicated nearly 58 years to teaching and remains active in her vocation even at an advanced age. For her, education has never been only about textbooks—it has always been about shaping human character.

A Lay Initiative Rooted in Faith

Rozario and her late husband founded St. Patrick’s Grammar School in 1967, starting in a rented house with just 27 students. At the time, they were among the first lay Catholics in Dhaka to establish and run a school—a move that drew skepticism in a society where educational institutions were usually led by priests or religious sisters.

“Gradually, the school grew,” she recalled. “At one point, we had 1,700 students and 57 teachers.”

Her husband, who also taught at the school, passed away a few years ago due to old age. With changing times and declining enrollment, the school has since become smaller and now serves around 70 students with 11 teachers.

Education Beyond Academics

Speaking to Radio Veritas Asia, Rozario emphasized that her school has always focused on moral and spiritual formation alongside academic excellence.

“Besides academic lessons, we teach moral values—good character and discipline,” she said. “Our motto has always been: ‘By labor, establish your life.’”

She added that respect for other religions and communities is a core lesson for students. “I receive strong support and love from guardians and neighbors to continue running the school,” she noted.

Students Across the World, Values at Home

Rozario believes the true success of her work is reflected in the lives of her former students.

“Those who studied here have established themselves professionally and socially,” she said with a smile. “My blessings and guidance helped them become good human beings.”

Her faith has also shaped her own family life. “I always prayed to God that my children would grow up as good human beings,” she shared softly. “My prayers were granted—my five sons and three daughters are well established and live with honor in society.”

Teaching as a Lifelong Vocation

Looking back, Rozario described her teaching journey as deeply fulfilling.

“I love spending time with students, and they love my companionship,” she said. “I was fully dedicated to my profession. My teaching career has been truly enjoyable.”

She encouraged young people aspiring to become teachers to embrace patience and commitment. “Teaching demands dedication. Without patience, one cannot shape young minds,” she advised.

She also stressed the role of parents. “Guardians must check homework, follow assignments, and give time to their children’s education,” she said.

For Rozario, teaching remains her vocation—one she intends to continue as long as her health allows.

Challenges and Church Support

Recalling the early struggles, Rozario said many doubted their initiative because they were laypeople.

“Some believed only priests or religious sisters could establish schools,” she said. “But Archbishop Theotonius Amal Ganguly, now recognized as Servant of God, always encouraged us.”

She fondly remembered how the late archbishop attended the inauguration of the school’s multi-storey building and offered Holy Mass there.

Beyond the Classroom

Apart from teaching, Rozario is also a writer, contributing regularly to Pratibeshi, a weekly published by the Christian Communication Center, and to other magazines focusing on women’s issues within the Christian community. She was also once involved in the cooperative movement, reflecting her broader commitment to social development.

At 85, Helen Rozario’s life stands as a quiet yet powerful witness to faith-inspired lay leadership, proving that education, when rooted in values, can transform generations—and endure across continents.