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Tiruchy

FMA Sisters Complete Advanced Scout Training at Don Bosco Youth Village

5 June 2026

Training,

News reported by: Fr Selva SDB

To commemorate the silver jubilee of “25 Years in Scouting,” the Bharat Scouts and Guides of the Don Bosco District Association, Tamil Nadu, organised two specialised adult training courses at Don Bosco Youth Village, Keeranur, Pudukottai, from May 25 to 29, 2026. The five-day programme focused on equipping participants with advanced scouting skills and strengthening their capacity for community service.

The training camp brought together 20 FMA Sisters and four young participants under the leadership of Rev. Sr. Margaret FMA, Coordinator of Scouts for the Tiruchy Province. The programme served as an intensive platform for practical learning, leadership formation, and skill development.

A group of 11 FMA Sisters participated in the Special Course in First Aid, receiving hands-on training in essential life-saving techniques. The course was conducted by Fr. John Peter, LT (Scout), and Mr Anbalagan of the St. John’s Ambulance Wing, Egmore. Practical sessions were supported by Mr J. Krishnamoorthy, LT (Rover), and Mr S. Gunaseelan, ALT (Rover), enabling participants to gain confidence in emergency response and first-aid management.

At the same time, eight FMA Sisters attended the Pioneering and Estimation Course, led by Ms Victoria, ALT (Scout), Mr M.D. Ilangovan, ALT (Scout), and Mr Antony Gunaraj, ALT (Scout). The participants acquired advanced skills in pioneering, structural construction, estimation, and teamwork—key competencies in scouting activities and outdoor leadership.

The courses were formally inaugurated on May 25 by Fr. Victor Antonyraj, SDB, Vice Provincial of Tiruchy Province. His presence underscored the significance of the training initiative and encouraged participants to deepen their commitment to scouting values.

A highlight of the programme was the visit of Dr Fr. Thomas Mariaraj, SDB, LT (Scout), District Chief Commissioner of the Don Bosco District Association, on May 28. Addressing the participants, he emphasised the importance of leadership, discipline, and selfless service, inspiring the trainees to use their skills for the benefit of society.

The valedictory function was held on May 29, with Mr Nagarajan, LT (Scouts), State Training Commissioner of Bharat Scouts and Guides, Chennai, serving as the chief guest. In his address, he commended the FMA Sisters for their initiative in pursuing advanced scouting training and enhancing their preparedness for service.

During the ceremony, Fr. John Peter, LT (Scouts), and Fr. X. James Benjamin, ALT (Scouts), were honoured with parchments and the traditional four-bead necklace in recognition of their successful completion of specialised scouting courses and their contribution to scout training.