Mangaluru: The Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM), Omzoor Unit, organised a Teachers’ Day celebration at Holy Family Church, Omzoor, to honour the dedicated teachers serving the parish community. The programme was held in collaboration with the Education Commission and the Bible and Faith Formation Commission.
The celebration brought together parish leaders, teachers and ICYM members for an event that combined appreciation of the teaching profession with cultural activities, games and fellowship.
Teachers honoured for their service
The programme was organised to recognise the contribution of teachers and acknowledge their role in nurturing and guiding young people.
The event was attended by Fr William Menezes, parish priest and director of ICYM; Parish Pastoral Council vice-president Arthur D’Souza; secretary Daffny Lewis; Convent superior Sr Luciana; ICYM coordinators Vineet and Glevita Lasrado; and ICYM president Joswin Pinto and secretary Lavita Pereira.
ICYM president Joswin Pinto welcomed the gathering and formally commenced the programme.
Teacher Reshma D’Souza spoke about the significance of the teaching profession, highlighting the responsibilities, challenges and rewards associated with educating and nurturing young minds.
Speakers highlight role of teachers
Arthur D’Souza highlighted the importance of teachers in shaping individuals, families and communities. He described teaching as a noble vocation and stressed the wider influence educators can have beyond the classroom.
In his presidential address, Fr William Menezes expressed appreciation for the teaching fraternity and emphasised the responsibility of teachers to contribute to the development of responsible citizens.
He said teachers have a role not only in imparting knowledge but also in helping shape students into spiritually and morally responsible individuals.
The remarks at the programme highlighted the broader responsibilities associated with education, particularly the role teachers play in influencing the character and values of younger generations.
Games and cultural programme add to celebrations
Following the formal proceedings, the celebration moved into a cultural and entertainment session.
Members of ICYM organised a series of games for the teachers, providing an opportunity for them to relax and participate in activities outside their regular professional responsibilities.
The games also helped create an informal atmosphere, encouraging interaction and camaraderie among the participants.
The Bible and Faith Formation Commission added to the programme with a skit. The performance brought humour and entertainment to the gathering and was appreciated by those present.
The combination of formal appreciation, games and cultural activities gave the Teachers’ Day programme a community-oriented character.
Prize distribution concludes programme
The celebration concluded with a prize distribution ceremony for the winners of the various games.
Florine Aranha proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the dignitaries, teachers, organisers and participants who contributed to the programme.
The organisers described the celebration as a tribute to the selfless service, dedication and contribution of teachers in the Omzoor parish community.
The event also provided an opportunity for the parish community and its youth organisation to come together and acknowledge educators for their contribution to shaping future generations.
Community celebrates teaching profession
Teachers’ Day celebrations across India are traditionally an occasion to recognise educators and their contribution to society. At Omzoor, the programme combined this recognition with community participation and fellowship.
The involvement of ICYM members and the parish commissions reflected the role of community organisations in organising events that bring different sections of the parish together.
The programme at Holy Family Church therefore served both as an expression of gratitude to teachers and as a community gathering featuring cultural activities and interaction.
The celebration concluded on a positive note, with teachers being recognised for their service and participants joining in the games, cultural programme and prize distribution.