District-Level English Elocution Competition
St. Xavier High School & Junior College, Shrirampur, organized the 20th District-Level English Elocution Competition in preparation for the feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola. The event, based on theme ‘To Love and Serve’, the motto of our school, was held at the St. Luke Nursing College auditorium, and brought together talented speakers from across the district.
Among our honoured guests were: Mr. Ganesh Shinde (renowned Marathi orator), Sr. Reena George (Principal, St.Luke College), Fr. Prakash Bhalerao SJ (Superior), other Jesuit fathers and faculty members. 20 schools participated in the competition, showcasing inspirational speeches that reflected a deep understanding of the theme and powerful oratory skills.
The awards went to: First – St. Vivekanand High School, Ahilyanagar; Second – St. Xavier’s High School & Junior College, Shrirampur; and Third: Auxilium English Medium School, Ahilyanagar. The Best Speaker Awards went to: Amogh Palaskar (St. Vivekanand School), Mahek Balani (St. Xavier’s, Shrirampur), Yash Mantode (Dnyanmata School, Sangamner), and Prachi Lad (B.R. Khathod School, Shrirampur).
The program was skilfully coordinated by Mr. Anand Patekar and his enthusiastic student team. Judges for the event were Fr. Allwyn K., Fr. Sunil Gaikwad SJ, and Dr. Priya Sarda. The students of St. Xavier led the audience in prayerful and joyful singing.
Sr. Reena George, in her thought-provoking message, spoke about the deeper meaning of ‘To Love and Serve’, encouraging students to grow into responsible, compassionate citizens who uplift others through their actions. Prof. Ganesh Shinde, in his keynote address, praised the confidence and clarity of the participants, and urged them to continue practicing and using their voice for good.
The St. Xavier staff and volunteers made the event a memorable and inspiring experience. The elocution competition not only celebrated public speaking but also highlighted the values of Ignatian education – faith, service, and leadership. The event concluded with the vibrant, uplifting Ignatian March, and the theme ever ‘To Love and Serve’, echoing in our hearts.
