Shishu Koruna Sangha

Reunion of SKS And Bodhicariya School Alumni organised

Adarsha Chakma

The first Re-union of SKS and Bodhicariya School Alumni was organised, coinciding with the 20th Foundation day of Bodhicariya School on the 15th-16th November 2009. It was organised in the premises of the Bodhicariya Educational Complex, and was presided over by the most respected Ven. Bimal Bhikkhu, the founder of SKS (Shishu Koruna Shangha) and Bodhicariya. Mr. Pierre Merchand, the Founder Director of Partage, France, an international organisation working for the welfare of the people and children of the backward communities all over the world, was the honourable chief guest. The programme spreading over two days included discussions, exchange of ideas and experiences, felicitation of all the former and present teachers of Bodhicariya Senior Secondary School.

Ven. Bimal Bhikkhu addressing the gathering during the Alumni Reunion

On the occassion the title of ‘Changma Bandhu’ (A friend of the Chakmas) was conferred to the chief guest Mr. Pierre Merchand. The programme also included sports and cultural events and most importantly the formation of the ‘SKS And Bodhicariya Alumni Association’ (SABAA). The Alumni brought out a special edition of the magazine "THE BODHICARIYA"¹ for the occassion. In his article for the magazine, Ven. Bimal Bhikkhu shares his inspiring life story and his dream, and the birth of SKS and Bodhicariya. The magazine also contains an article from His Royal Highness, The Chakma Raja, Tridiv Roy through which he explains how ancient Buddhist wisdom is being appplied in the modern world in as diverse fields as Physics and Ecology. A t-shirt was also brought out for the occassion.

The programme was also attended by the General Secretary of SKS Mr. Sura Krishna Chakma, the Rector of Bodhicariya Education Complex Mr. Akon Chandra Chakma, the former and present teachers of Bodhicariya School, the non-teaching staff, some eminent well wishers and the alumnus from different parts of the country, including some of the established ones, and those who are still pursuing their studies.

The theme of the event was, ‘Recollect, Revive and Reinforce’, and hence discussions and debates, exchange of ideas and opinions on topics like, The past, present and future of SKS Bodhicariya, awareness campaigns, sustainability, role of the Alumni in the progress of the institute and the Chakma community as a whole and ways to overcome the various challenges and problems faced by the society and try to find ways to find their possible solutions. The whole event was a display of the solidarity, brotherhood and the commitment of the Alumni towards the society. It was a clarion call for all the Alumni to give itself a sense of responsibility and purpose.

Pierre MARCHAND honoured with Changma Bandhu

Chakma Raja Tridiv Roy attends Kathina Cibara Danotsav at Sarnath