St. Xavier’s High School, Fort

Date: 15th August 2026 – Saturday

St. Xavier’s High School, Fort, celebrated the 80th Independence Day of India with great patriotic fervour, enthusiasm and pride on Saturday, 15th August 2026.

The occasion was made special with the staff wearing specially designed Independence Day badges, created especially for the celebration. The badges added a distinctive patriotic touch and reflected the spirit of unity and pride among the staff.

The programme commenced with the arrival of the Chief Guest, Mrs. Sunita Ferrao, who was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the beginning of the programme. Her presence added dignity and significance to the occasion.

The National Flag was then hoisted with due solemnity, followed by the National Anthem. The school campus resonated with patriotic spirit as the students, staff and dignitaries saluted the Tricolour and remembered the sacrifices of our freedom fighters.

Before the Mass Drill, the NILP Pledge was recited. The pledge aimed at creating awareness and educating every individual about the importance of literacy, lifelong learning and the responsibility of contributing towards an educated and empowered society.

This was followed by an impressive Mass Drill, showcasing the discipline, coordination and energy of the students. The students then presented a series of meaningful and well-coordinated performances, including a patriotic speech, a street play and patriotic songs. The street play conveyed an important social message and encouraged the audience to reflect on their responsibility towards the nation.

The students of the Primary Section presented a vibrant Patriotic Dance, which beautifully expressed their love for the country. Their performance was appreciated by everyone present.

A special feature of the celebration was the presence of Police Officials from the Crime Branch, who conducted the Drug-Free India Pledge. Students and staff solemnly pledged to stay away from drugs and contribute towards building a healthy, responsible and drug-free society. The initiative reinforced the importance of awareness, prevention and collective responsibility among young citizens.

The programme also included the felicitation of the Chief Guest, followed by her address. Mrs. Sunita Ferrao shared inspiring thoughts and encouraged the students to uphold the values of patriotism, discipline, responsibility and service to the nation.

The Supervisor’s address further highlighted the significance of Independence Day and reminded students that true freedom comes with responsibility, respect for others and a commitment to building a better India.

The celebration also provided an opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the achievements of the school community through the felicitation of SSC toppers for the academic year 2025-26 :

1. Master Atharv Pednekar.     95.40 %

2. Master Uzair Mandviwala    93.20%

3. Master Hammad Shaikh      93.00%

A special moment of recognition followed, when certificates were presented to the NILP (National India Literacy Programme) aspirants who successfully completed the programme during the academic year 2025–26. The presentation acknowledged their commitment, perseverance and successful completion of the literacy programme.

The programme concluded with the Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to the Chief Guest, the Police Officials from the Crime Branch, the Management, staff, students and all those who contributed to the successful conduct of the celebration.

The Management and the Police Officials appreciated the efforts of the school, the staff and the students for organising a disciplined, meaningful and patriotic programme. Their words of appreciation served as a great encouragement to the entire school community.

The Independence Day celebration was a memorable and enriching experience that brought together the Management, staff and students in the spirit of unity, patriotism, literacy, social responsibility and service. It reminded everyone of the sacrifices that won our freedom and inspired us to fulfil our responsibilities as citizens of India.

Jai Hind!

Teachers in charge 

Ms.Anneth V Fernandes 

Mr.Dilip Correia