Bangladesh Catholic Education Institution celebrates 75th Years founding anniversary

Bangladesh Catholic Education Institution Notre Dame College celebrated its 75-year foundation anniversary at Arambagh in Dhaka from January 25 to 27.

The anniversary program commenced with the national anthems and the hoisting of both the national flag and the college flag. The cultural program that followed showcased the diverse talents of the students, adding vibrancy to the celebration.

Under the theme "Seventy-five bright with conviction," the festivities brought together past and present students, along with meritorious individuals who have contributed to the institution's success.

The opening ceremony saw the presence of distinguished guests, including Apostolic Nuncio to Bangladesh Archbishop Kevin Randall, Superior General of Congregation of Holy Cross Brother Paul Bednarczyk, CSC, Archbishop of Dhaka and Chairman of NDC governing body Bejoy N D’Cruze, OMI, Former Governor of Bangladesh Bank Dr. Atiur Rahman, Cardinal Patrick D’Rozario, CSC, and Principal of Notre Dame College Father Hemanto Pius Rozario, CSC.

Father Hemanto Pius Rozario, the principal of Notre Dame College, expressed his gratitude during the opening ceremony, saying, "Today is the day to thank and appreciate our almighty God as this educational institution has crossed 75 years of teaching with pride. During this period, the traditional Notre Dame College endeavored to develop students in moral, humane, and spiritual education."

Father Rozario emphasized the sense of brotherhood that has developed among the students, calling it a significant aspect of the 75th-anniversary celebration.

Archbishop Bejoy N. D’Cruze highlighted the educational objectives of Notre Dame College, stating, "Notre Dame College is an educational institution of the Catholic Church. The objective of this educational institution is to develop students as enlightened human beings by developing valuable knowledge."

The Superior General of the Congregation of the Holy Cross, Brother Paul Bednarczyk, commended Notre Dame College as one of the nation's premier educational institutions, producing successful individuals across various fields. He expressed confidence in the institution's ability to continue its legacy for generations to come.

Apostolic Nuncio to Bangladesh Archbishop Kevin Randall emphasized the holistic approach to education at Notre Dame College, stating, "The Catholic pursuit of education deals with the whole person integrating faith and integrity into their line. Notre Dame College in Dhaka has taught these values for 75 years, and one can see the results."

A student who participated in this event expressed his feelings: "Today I am really happy because, as a child of a normal family, I got the opportunity to study at this prestigious educational institution in the country, which is a great achievement in my life. This institution is helping me to grow humanly and spiritually."

Roman Catholic priests from the Congregation of Holy Cross established Notre Dame College in Arambagh, Dhaka, in November 1949.

In 1954, the college relocated to its current location in Motijheel and renamed itself Notre Dame College, paying homage to the University of Notre Dame.

Since the 1980s, Notre Dame College has gained a reputation as the best institution for higher secondary education in Bangladesh, evident in its record number of perfect GPA holders in national examinations (H.S.C.) and the exceptional success of its students in university admission tests.

The institution's commitment to providing quality education with a strong moral foundation has stood the test of time, making Notre Dame College a beacon of academic excellence in the country. - Nikhil Gomes