Nazareth School, Banakal, concluded its silver year on April 21, 2023, with twin celebrations. A thanksgiving Holy Eucharist presided over by Dr. T Antony Swamy, the Bishop of Chikkamagaluru, was celebrated in the morning. In the evening, a cultural extravaganza on the theme “Molding the future with vision in service of God and people” culminated the event that had gratitude in all that was presented. The Parish community of Banakal, the public from the town of Banakal, and staff and students of the school participated in the celebrations. They expressed their joy at the influence of Nazareth School on the lives of the families in and around the town. Sisters from various communities of the Province were also present to celebrate the moment. The day-long celebration was live-streamed on local television.

In her message for the Jubilee souvenir, Sister Hilda Lobo, the pioneer of the mission and the present principal, writes:

“Nazareth School planted in 1998, has grown into a large tree, which shelters the educational endeavors of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth to build an integral and responsible society. What a privilege to be back here at Banakal, on its successful journey of 25 years. My heart swells with pride as I reminisce about our humble beginnings in the Ravi Ashram at Banakal (Church Hall).

It was the yearning of the people of Banakal then to have a school so that their children could have access to quality education. And it was by God’s divine intervention that we began our service to the people of Banakal here in this place. 

With gratitude in my heart, I remember the many persons who walked with us through the many twists and turns of the progress of the school. Late Mr. B.A. Saldanha was one of the greatest and most generous men who dreamt of having sisters in this place and an educational institution. He ensured that his dreams came true doing everything he could to begin the school. I also would like to remember Fr. Antony Vas OFM Cap, the then parish priest of Banakal who welcomed the sisters and gave his support to begin the school. 

Ten batches of students have successfully graduated from Nazareth and we take pride in every one of them. The committed teaching community of the school is second to none in accompanying the young minds tirelessly. Our past students have spread the fragrance of Nazareth School in different parts of India and abroad as engineers, doctors, and IT professionals. 

This abode of learning continues to enjoy the support and encouragement of the donors, Mr. Norbert Saldanha and his family. They keep alive the memory of their father Mr. B. A. Saldanha here in Nazareth School, Banakal. 

The collaborative efforts of our stakeholders continue to strengthen us and help our students become lifelong learners and leaders of tomorrow, equipped with the skills to learn and to adapt in an ever-changing world. When we look back at all that we have learned through our presence here we are encouraged to evolve in our commitment to impart an education that brings collective growth in human beings and build relationships with the earth in serenity and wisdom. 

My wish is that we continue to march on persistently in our quest to share with the world all our gifts and graces.”

As the school marches into the next phase of its life and mission, we wish the school community abundance of blessings and grace.