The solemn foundation stone laying ceremony stood at the heart of the day’s celebrations. With prayers and blessings, the Rector Major inaugurated the construction of the new extension, symbolizing the long-term dedication of the Salesians to expanding educational opportunities, particularly for tribal and underprivileged youth in Jharkhand.

The event was graced by distinguished dignitaries including Most Rev. Linus Pingal Ekka, Bishop of Gumla; Fr. Biju Michael SDB, Regional Superior of South Asia; Fr. Davis Maniparamben SDB, Provincial of New Delhi; Fr. Joe D’Souza, Founder of the Disciple Brothers & Sisters, Don Bosco Kunkuri; Fr. Thathireddy Vijayabhaskar, Secretary to the Rector Major; architect Mr. Rajeev Chadda; contractors Mr. Subhash Jain and Mr. Sanyog Jain; along with Salesians, members of the Salesian Family from the Chotanagpur region, clergy, religious, Catholic faithful, staff, and students.

The programme commenced with a traditional welcome marked by vibrant cultural gestures and the resounding slogan “Viva Don Bosco.” In his welcome address, Fr. Augustine Toppo, Rector of Don Bosco Gumla, described the visit as a “historic event” and a “moment of grace,” affirming that the Rector Major’s presence deepens unity and rekindles apostolic zeal among the Salesians to serve young people, especially the poor, with renewed fidelity to the charism of John Bosco.

Bishop Linus Pingal Ekka, in his address, expressed profound gratitude for the Rector Major’s visit to the Diocese of Gumla. He highlighted the vibrant faith life of the diocese and commended the Salesians for their transformative contribution to education, particularly among tribal communities, thereby strengthening the Church’s mission in the region.

Addressing the students after laying the foundation stone, the Rector Major drew a powerful parallel between physical and personal foundations. “Without a solid foundation, any building will crumble,” he said, urging students to lay strong moral and intellectual foundations for their own lives. Recalling the humble beginnings of young John Bosco, who grew up in poverty yet responded decisively to God’s call at the age of twenty, he reminded the youth that greatness is built not on wealth but on generosity and purpose.

“You study in a school whose motto is ‘knowledge and virtue’—a good mind and a good heart,” he told the gathering. “As you build your future, never forget to be kind and generous to the poor, just as Don Bosco was.”

The celebration was enriched by vibrant cultural performances that reflected the natural beauty and indigenous heritage of Jharkhand. Through traditional dances and songs, students portrayed the lush forests, rolling hills, waterfalls, and valleys of the region, highlighting the deep bond between tribal communities and nature. The performances also expressed collective joy at the Rector Major's historic presence during this landmark occasion.

As Don Bosco School, Gumla marks 25 years of educational service, the laying of the foundation stone signals not merely infrastructural growth but a renewed vision for the future. The day stands as a milestone—celebrating a proud legacy while firmly establishing the groundwork for decades of continued service to young people in the spirit of Don Bosco.