Orientation holds significant importance for new employees in any organization. As a customary practice of the Human Resource department at Notre Dame University Bangladesh (NDUB), a day-long orientation program was organized on March 17, 2023, at the Holy Cross Pastoral and Retreat Center in Pubail, Gazipur. The theme of the orientation program was “The Competence to See and the Courage to Act.” A total of 20 new faculty members and administrative staff participated in the event.

The Honorable Vice-Chancellor of NDUB, Prof. Dr. Fr. Patrick Daniel Gaffney, CSC, warmly welcomed everyone to the orientation program. He emphasized the strong connections we have within the university community, highlighting that each individual is supported by others. This collective approach fosters a sense of responsibility towards working for the benefit of others, rather than solely for ourselves. He described the culture at NDUB as one that emphasizes helping others while fulfilling our own responsibilities.

Following the welcome address, the deputy exam controller, Fr. Boniface Tolentino, CSC, provided insights into the history and mission of the Holy Cross congregation. He acknowledged the arduous and lengthy journey undertaken by the Holy Cross Congregation to reach its current state. He mentioned that the decision of the Holy Cross Fathers to come to Bengal and work here was initially met with skepticism by many.

Subsequently, the Registrar, Dr. Fr. Leonard Shankar Rozario, CSC, delved into the philosophy of the Holy Cross congregation and the transformative process it entails. He emphasized that our efforts extend beyond mere physical work; we strive to combine our intellectual capacities with compassionate hearts to achieve excellence. To conclude the program, he facilitated a discussion session where participants shared at least one thing they had learned from the event.

In the closing remarks, the Human Resource Director, Mr. Dominic Dilu Peris, expressed gratitude to all the participants for their active involvement. He emphasized the importance of fostering a familial atmosphere and encouraged everyone to support one another. After the program, the group visited Holy Cross Family Ministries Bangladesh, Tumilia parish, and Nagori parish on their way back to Dhaka.