Notre Dame University Bangladesh (NDUB) celebrated “Club Day” and “Noboborsho (Bengali New Year)” on April 26 with great enthusiasm and festivity.
The program was graced by the presence of NDUB Vice Chancellor Dr. Fr. Patrick Daniel Gaffney, CSC, Pro-Vice Chancellor Dr. Fr. Charles B Gordon, CSC, Treasurer and Acting Proctor Dr. Fr. Subash Adam Pereira, CSC, Deputy Registrar Fr. Ashim Theotonius Gonsalves, CSC, and Club Coordinator Sr. Shagorica Maria Gomes, CSC.
The event commenced with the hoisting of the National Flag and the NDUB flag, accompanied by the playing of the National Anthem. Subsequently, the club flags were raised by the respective club moderators and co-moderators.
After that, Fr. Patrick, Fr. Charles, and Fr. Adam delivered their speeches on the occasion of the Club Day and Noboborsho. The program was then officially inaugurated with a balloon release and ribbon cutting. Guests visited various club stalls and interacted with students, moderators, and faculty members.
In his speech, Fr. Patrick highlighted the core values of NDUB. He urged students to foster leadership, creativity, and a love for community. He emphasized that unity, humanity, and respect for cultural diversity are the driving forces that inspire the university community to move forward.
Fr. Charles said, “Today, we are creating joyful memories that will help us stay happy even during the difficult times of our lives.” He encouraged students to cherish and create these joyful moments through their participation in cultural and club activities.
Emphasizing the importance of engaging actively in cultural practices, Fr. Adam said, “Just as people in our country celebrate December 31st with great excitement, we should also participate spontaneously in Pahela Baishakh and other cultural and social festivals. We must carry forward our Bengali cultural identity.”
The cultural session began in the afternoon, where guests were welcomed with flowers, followed by a welcome speech by Fr. Ashim. Visual presentations and performances by various clubs entertained the audience. NDUB Law Club, Computer Club, Drama and Film Club, Cultural Club, Debate Club, English Club, and Business Club each showcased their talents through different performances. The program concluded with closing remarks from Sr. Shagorica.
Tribute to Pope Francis
Earlier in the day, the NDUB community paid tribute to the late Pope Francis with deep respect. A one-minute silence was observed, candles were lit, and a floral garland was placed on the portrait of Pope Francis.
In his reflection, Fr. Patrick fondly remembered Pope Francis, speaking about his deep humanity, unwavering advocacy for the poor and oppressed, and his profound love for nature. He noted that Pope Francis’ life teaches us to stand beside others, speak for justice, and care for all of creation.
