GUEST LECTURES

‘KNOW THE INDIAN NAVY’ In a significant initiative to broaden students’ horizon, Vice Admiral Kishor Thakre, AVSM, NM a senior Naval Veteran, conducted a session on ‘Know the Indian Navy’ on 20 July 2024. The session’s main focus was to highlight the historical perspective as well modern-day challenges for the Indian Navy. The speaker provided insights into the diverse opportunities available within the naval forces and discussed the evolution of the Navy from its historical roots to its modern-day advancements. During the session, Vice Admiral Kishor Thakre elaborated on various career paths within the Navy, including roles in engineering, logistics, medical services and naval aviation. He highlighted the Navy's commitment to innovation and technology, showcasing how it has adapted to contemporary challenges and the importance of skilled personnel in maintaining national security.

The discussion also included an overview of the Navy's journey through the years, illustrating its transformation and modernization. Students were encouraged to consider how they could contribute to this dynamic institution and the vital role it plays in safeguarding the nation. The Interactive session allowed students to ask questions and engage in discussions about their aspirations, providing them with valuable information on how to pursue a career in the Navy. Bhonsala Military School continues to prioritize career guidance initiatives, ensuring that students are well-informed about the various paths available to them as they prepare for their futures.

'CAREER COUNSELLING'
In a proactive initiative to support student development, the school recently organized a ‘Career Counselling’ session on 16 Sept 2024. Mrs Revathi Deshpande, an expert career counselor, was the Guest Speaker for the session. She aimed at helping students explore their future aspirations. The session featured a knowledgeable resource person who engaged with students on the importance of setting clear goals and developing actionable plans to achieve their dreams. During the session, Mrs Revathi Deshpande emphasized the significance of understanding one's interests and strengths, encouraging students to reflect on their passions and how these can translate into viable career paths. Practical advice was provided on how to execute their plans, including steps for research, skill development, and networking. Students were encouraged to ask questions and share their own dreams, fostering an interactive environment that allowed for personalized guidance. The session aimed not only to inspire students but also to equip them with the tools necessary to navigate their future careers effectively. Bhonsala Military School remains committed to providing its students with valuable resources and support as they prepare for their professional journeys. This career guidance session is part of a broader effort to ensure that students are well-prepared to pursue their ambitions with confidence and clarity.

'GOOD TOUCH AND BAD TOUCH'
Another interactive session was conducted on August 9, 2024, on the topic of "Good touch and Bad Touch," by a renowned personality Dr Smita Mohta. This session was specifically designed for the students of class VIII to XII, aiming to educate them about personal safety and boundaries. Dr Mohta, an expert in child psychology and safety education, engaged the students with a comprehensive presentation that covered the definitions of safe and unsafe touch, the importance of consent and how to recognize and respond to uncomfortable situations. The session emphasized the significance of understanding personal boundaries and encouraged open communication about feelings and experiences. Various interactive activities were incorporated into the session, allowing students to participate actively and ask questions. This approach fostered a supportive environment where students felt comfortable discussing sensitive topics. Feedback from the attendees highlighted the importance of the session in raising awareness about personal safety and empowering them to make informed decisions. The school is committed to continuing such educational initiatives to promote the well-being and safety of its students.

'ADOLESCENCE'
On August 9, 2024, an interactive and informative session was conducted on the theme of ‘Adolescence’ by Dr. Rajiv Mohta. It was specifically tailored for students of class VIII to XII. The session aimed to address the various physical, emotional and social changes that adolescents experience during this critical developmental stage. Dr Mohta, a very experienced expert on the subject, provided insights into the challenges and opportunities that come with adolescence. He discussed mental health awareness, the importance of communication and strategies for coping with peer pressure. The interactive session encouraged students to engage actively and share their thoughts and experiences. A feedback, at the end of the session, from the students indicated that the session was both enlightening and beneficial, equipping them with valuable inputs to navigate their adolescent years more effectively. The school plans to continue such initiatives to support the holistic development of its students.

'CAREER IN MERCHANT NAVY'
The Bhonsala Military School organized an Interactive Session ‘Career in Merchant Navy’ on 14th October 2024 for Ramdandees of class X to XII. The session was conducted by featuring Chief Engineer Swapnil Tamhankar and Dr Vinod Kumar Mangwani, from Tolani Maritime Institute, Pune. They motivated the Ramdandees to consider a career in the Merchant Navy, discussing its various advantages,alongwith lucrative pay and perks. Dr Mangwani provided detailed information about Tolani Maritime Institute, including the admission process and the diverse fields available within the spectrum of Nautical Sciences and Marine Engineering. The session also included an interactive component, where students had the opportunity to ask questions and clarify their doubts, ensuring they left with a better understanding of the merchant navy and related career paths. Commandant, Head Master and Academic staff were present during the session.

"WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY"
On October 10, 2024, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, organized a webinar in recognition of World Mental Health Day. The same was specifically tailored for Ramdandees of classes VI to XII. The session addressed critical issues such as anxiety and depression, important legal frameworks concerning online harassment and cyber crime and effective strategies for managing privacy on social media platforms. This initiative is aimed at enhancing awareness and equipping students with essential knowledge regarding mental health and online safety. The webinar featured esteemed resource persons, including Dr Rajesh Sagar, a leading professor in the Department of Psychiatry, AIIMS, New Delhi and Ms Rashmi, DCP of the Indian Cyber Crime Centre under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

"BHONSALA SHINES IN SCHOLARSHIP EXAM "
The Ramdandees of Bhonsala Military School, Nagpur displayed a sterling performance in the scholarship exam conducted in Feb 2024. Rd Purvesh Maske, Rd Tanishq Bahekar, Rd Saksham Bawankar, Rd Arjyo Das and Rd Tejas Pustole succeeded in the exam. Each cadet will receive a cash of Rs. 5000/- per year for a period of three years from the Government of Maharashtra. The Management, Commandant and Head Master complimented the Ramdandees for their success. Likewise last year, the school has shortlisted 39 Ramdandees for this examination. Three classes per week of one hour duration are being held from Aug 2024 onwards to give extra coaching in subject Viz. Mathematics, English, Reasoning and Marathi.

"HANDWRITING IMPROVEMENT CLASSES"
Handwriting Improvement Classes have been introduced for classes 5th to 7th. A private firm has been conducting 50 sessions of one hour each during the academic year. While we are yet not crossed the half-way mark, there is a distinct improvement in handwriting of most of the Ramdandees. The same has also resulted in better academic performance of the cadets.