New Beginnings and Fond Farewells as St. Joseph’s College Reopens Post-Summer Break

Prayagraj : The gates of St. Joseph’s College (SJC) reopened to a poignant blend of nostalgia and anticipation on July 1, 2026. On its inaugural day post-summer vacation, the institution hosted a grand dual ceremony to officially welcome its newly appointed Headmaster, Rev. Fr. Gyan Prakash, while bidding an emotional farewell to three deeply respected pillars of the school community: Rev. Fr. Melwin Pais, Rev. Fr. Gladwin Fernandes, and Mrs. Iris Simon.

The morning commenced on the college grounds, where the Principal, Rev. Fr. Walter D'Silva, alongside School Coordinator Mr. Jyoti Dube, escorted the dignitaries to the stage. Following a spirited ceremonial march past by the College and House Cabinets, the gathering participated in a sacred Bible reading and an uplifting prayer song by the Senior College Choir.

In a series of warm gestures, senior coordinators and staff members presented floral bouquets to the incoming and departing dignitaries. Student leaders, including Junior College Captain Suyash Srivastava, College Head Marshal Raghav Shukla, and students Daksh Talwar and Raghav Mishra, delivered moving tributes reflecting the deep impact the departing educators had on their lives. Alumni representation was also strong, with Mr. Abhishek Verma (Batch of 2014) from the Old Boys’ Association presenting a token of respect to his former teacher, Mrs. Iris Simon.

In his inaugural address, the new Headmaster, Rev. Fr. Gyan Prakash, urged students to view failures as stepping stones and to pursue knowledge to become responsible citizens. Principal Rev. Fr. Walter D'Silva commended the departing staff, emphasizing that their dedicated service would leave a permanent legacy within SJC.

The celebrations transitioned to Hogan Hall for a special staff-led segment. The afternoon featured introductions by Mrs. Nandita Tripathi, reflection speeches from the staff—including Mrs. Pratima Khare, Mrs. Tereesa Patrick, and Mrs. Priya Peter—and musical tributes.

The memorable day of transition concluded with the presentation of mementoes by the Principal and Mrs. Darshana Madnani, followed by a closing grace and a communal lunch, marking a harmonious new chapter for the historic institution.

(Report by Zainul Abdin)