Don Bosco College, Yelagiri Hills

Don Bosco College (Co-Ed), Yelagiri Hills, began the Academic Year 2025–2026 on a deeply spiritual and vibrant note with the theme “Rooted in Values and Rising with Vision.” The grand inauguration ceremony, held on June 16, 2025, was a perfect blend of faith, tradition, and forward-looking aspirations. It set the tone for a year dedicated to academic excellence, character formation, and holistic development.

The day commenced with the celebration of the Holy Mass, offered in thanksgiving for the new academic year. Faculty, students, and staff gathered as one family, seeking God’s grace and guidance for the months ahead. The Mass was reverent and uplifting, filling hearts with hope, peace, and spiritual strength. It reminded everyone that at the heart of all learning and leadership lies a deep connection with the Divine.

The inaugural ceremony followed, seamlessly building on the spiritual ambiance. The formal program included a captivating prayer dance, the traditional lighting of the lamp, welcome and presidential addresses, an oath-taking ceremony, introduction of clubs, release of the College Calendar and Handbook, and the uplifting College Anthem.

Mr. Joshua and Ms. Priyadharshini, the eloquent Masters of Ceremony, opened the event with thoughtful reflections on the importance of nurturing dreams, upholding values, and embracing the purpose of education. Their words resonated with the student body, inspiring a mindset of ambition grounded in integrity.

Prayer Dance: The prayer dance, performed by a group of talented students Mary Nisha (II BCA), Amala Sherin (BBA), Helan Judith (MCA), Yuvasree (BBA), Sherin Hilda (BCA), Melvina (BCA), and Neethi Delvi (B. Com CA) was a visual hymn of devotion. With graceful movements in harmony with sacred music, they created an atmosphere of reverence and reflection. It was a moving reminder of the college’s core belief: “Primacy for God.”

The ceremonial lighting of the lamp a symbol of wisdom and enlightenment—was performed by the following dignitaries:

Rev. Dr. Don Bosco Lourdhusamy (Provincial): His presence and blessing marked the event with spiritual depth and institutional significance.
Rev. Fr. Dr. Bosco Augustine (Rector & Secretary): As the spiritual and administrative head, he symbolized leadership rooted in compassion and vision.
Rev. Dr. Thaddeus Singarayan SDB (Vice Rector & CEO, Bosco Soft): His participation reflected continuity, innovation, and dedication to the educational mission.
Dr. L. Ravi (Principal): Newly appointed, his lighting of the lamp marked the start of a new chapter of academic pursuit and growth.
Mr. Murugan, Head of the Department of Business Administration, Paolalmon Haokip from III Defence; and Sujana from II BCA B symbolized the collaborative spirit and mutual commitment between educators and students.

Rev. Fr. Dr. Bosco Augustine extended a heartfelt welcome to all, especially the first-year students, assuring them of a supportive and inspiring environment. He expressed his gratitude to the Provincial, introduced the newly appointed Salesian Fathers, and welcomed the Principal, Dr. L. Ravi, highlighting his leadership and academic vision.

In a gesture of respect and gratitude, shawls and mementoes were presented by Rev. Fr. Charles Grace (Vice Principal - Administration) to:

Rev. Dr. Don Bosco Lourdhusamy (Provincial) – for his visionary leadership.
Rev. Fr. Dr. Bosco Augustine (Rector) – for his steadfast service and guidance.

Other Salesian Fathers who joined the campus were also warmly felicitated.

Dr. L. Ravi, in his first official address as Principal, shared an inspiring vision for the academic year. He introduced the Heads of Departments and welcomed new faculty members. He emphasized not only academic instruction but the vital role of mentorship, urging students to aim for holistic excellence.

Rev. Fr. Arokia Berdouil, Campus Minister, introduced the college’s vibrant array of student clubs and movements. He passionately highlighted their role in personality development, leadership training, and social engagement, describing them as “the heartbeat of campus life.”

Before the Presidential Address, the College Code of Conduct was formally presented to students in both English and Tamil, ensuring clarity and inclusivity.

Rev. Fr. Jerome Hendry, Dean of Students’ Welfare, read the English version, emphasizing values such as discipline, punctuality, respect, and integrity.
Dr. Latha, Head of the Department of Tamil, followed with the Tamil version, articulating the same institutional expectations and values in the students’ mother tongue.
This bilingual approach ensured that the message of responsible citizenship and academic integrity reached every student clearly and meaningfully.

In a solemn and moving moment, Dr. Rajendran (Vice Principal - Administration) led the Oath-Taking Ceremony. Faculty and students pledged their commitment to Don Bosco’s vision and values. With hands raised, they affirmed the three guiding principles of the Salesian system Reason, Religion, and Loving-Kindness—renewing their dedication to a purposeful, values-driven life. The most anticipated segment of the day was the Presidential Address by Rev. Dr. Don Bosco Lourdhusamy (Provincial). He welcomed the students with warmth and insight, urging them to take their education seriously, stay rooted in moral values, and grow in faith and responsibility. He reminded the young minds that a Don Bosco education is not just about information, but transformation for the self and for society.

To offer students a clear academic and co-curricular roadmap, the College Calendar and Handbook was officially released by the Provincial and received by the Rector. The publication includes key academic dates, rules, and major college events planned for the year. Rev. Fr. Charles Grace (Vice Principal - Academics) delivered the Vote of Thanks, acknowledging the presence and contributions of the Provincial, the Rector, Salesian Fathers, faculty, non-teaching staff, student leaders, and volunteers. He expressed deep gratitude for their tireless efforts in making the inauguration a memorable and meaningful success.

Conclusion – The College Anthem

The ceremony concluded with a stirring rendition of the College Anthem by the college choir. Sung with pride and unity, the anthem encapsulated the spirit of Don Bosco and inspired the gathering to step forward with courage, faith, and vision.