“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”  - Mahatma Gandhi

With the goal of experiencing the mutual enrichment of village and urban life, and the theme of our year: "Learning to lead and build bridges," a social service camp was organized for the students of Std 8 and 9 from St. Xavier’s Boys' Academy (SXBA) to Prabodhan Vidyalaya, Ambatha, from the 5th to the 8th of December, 2024. This initiative aimed to foster intercultural understanding and personal growth among students from both urban and rural backgrounds.

Visit to Ambatha

The students and staff of SXBA were warmly welcomed upon arrival in Ambatha. This was followed by a visit to the river, where students engaged in an interactive session with the students of Ambatha. This session included ice-breaking activities and discussions about their respective lifestyles and educational experiences, helping to build initial connections.

Over the next few days, the students participated in a variety of activities designed to immerse them in rural life and promote mutual learning:

• Van Bhojan: Students enjoyed a 'Van Bhojan'—a meal cooked in the forest with resources from the forest. This activity not only provided a unique culinary experience but also taught students about sustainable living and the importance of being connected with nature.

• Sports and Games: The students engaged in traditional sports such as football and kabaddi. These games were not only fun but also fostered teamwork and camaraderie among the students from both schools.

• Home Visits: Our students visited the homes of villagers, shared meals with them, and learned about their daily routines and lifestyle. This activity provided a deep insight into rural life and helped students appreciate the simplicity and challenges of village living.

• Cultural Program:  A cultural program was organized on the last day, featuring traditional performances such as Lezim, skits, and dance performances. This event showcased the rich cultural heritage of the region and allowed students to express their creativity and talents.

Through these experiences, the students learned independence, gratitude for their resources, and the lasting impact of kindness. They also developed a deeper understanding of rural life and the importance of community and sustainability.

Visit to Mumbai

Simultaneously, a two-day in-house camp was held for the students of Prabodhan Vidyalaya in Mumbai. The camp commenced with a warm welcome extended by the Std 9 students and SXBA staff. The activities were designed to provide a comprehensive cultural and educational experience:

• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya: The first day included a visit to this renowned museum, where the students explored India's rich history and diverse cultures through various exhibits. They learned about ancient artifacts, historical events, and artistic achievements, gaining a broader perspective on India's heritage.

• Gateway of India and Marine Drive: Following the museum visit, the group enjoyed a scenic boat ride at the Gateway of India, followed by a leisurely walk along Marine Drive after dinner. These activities provided a refreshing break and allowed students to experience the iconic landmarks of Mumbai.

• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus Station and BMC Main Office: The second day began with a visit to these historic sites, where students were given a brief history of the station and viewed the architectural marvels of the BMC Main Office.

• Nehru Science Centre: The students then visited the Nehru Science Centre, engaging with interactive exhibits that brought scientific concepts to life. From mind-bending puzzles to cutting-edge technology, the center offered a plethora of opportunities for learning and fun.

• Nehru Planetarium: The day culminated with a visit to the Nehru Planetarium. The students were awestruck by the immersive experience of the Sky Theatre, where they learned about the vastness of the universe, stars, constellations, and galaxies.

• Mani Bhavan: The exploration of Mumbai’s rich culture and history ended with a visit to Mani Bhavan, where the students learned about the life of Mahatma Gandhi and his contributions to India's independence movement.

The two-day camp concluded with both SXBA and Prabodhan Vidyalaya students and staff expressing their gratitude for the opportunity to connect and learn from each other. The camp served as a catalyst for future collaborations and a testament to the positive impact of social service initiatives.

Social Immersion Experience

This social immersion experience is an integral part of the curriculum at St. Xavier’s Boys' Academy. It ensures that students gain practical learning by engaging with different communities and serving those in need. For students who could not participate in the immersion experience, alternative community engagement and service activities are arranged. 

• Community Service for Std 8 Students: Students of standard eight who could not go to Ambatha are required to complete 30 hours of community service. 

• Community Service for Std 9 Students: Students of standard nine who could not participate in the Mumbai camp are required to complete 15 hours of community service.

These community service hours ensure that all students benefit from the integral and practical learning that occurs when serving the least and the last in society.

Conclusion

This social service outreach program served as a catalyst for future collaborations and a testament to the positive impact of social service initiatives. The experience left a lasting impact on all involved, fostering a sense of camaraderie and global citizenship. Through these exchanges, students from both urban and rural backgrounds learned to lead and build bridges, embodying the theme of the academic year.

Reported by: Ms. Macrina Mascarenhas & Ms. Adelaide Pereira