The proposed college seeks to respond to the growing educational needs of young people in Banswara district and the wider Udaipur Diocese. Students from Chittorgarh, Dungarpur, Pratapgarh, Salumber, and even neighboring districts of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh are expected to benefit from the institution. The establishment of a local college will significantly reduce the need for students to travel long distances for higher education, thereby improving accessibility, convenience, and opportunities for academic and economic advancement in the region.

Present at the ceremony were Fr Ashley Miranda, Provincial of the Mumbai Province; members of his Provincial Council; and other Salesian confreres and well-wishers. Fr Michael Bansode, Provincial Councillor and coordinator of the project, welcomed the gathering and outlined the vision of “Project Banswara,” highlighting the efforts undertaken to bring the initiative to fruition.

At the construction site, Bishop Ganawa led a prayer service and blessed the foundation stone, invoking God’s guidance for the successful completion of the project. Referring to the Psalm, “If the Lord does not build the house, in vain do the builders labour,” he expressed confidence that, despite challenges, the project would progress with God’s assistance.

In his brief address, Fr Ashley Miranda thanked Bishop Ganawa for entrusting the mission to the Salesians and reaffirmed the Province’s commitment to providing value-based, holistic education. The Bishop, in turn, appreciated the Salesians’ readiness to undertake this significant responsibility for the benefit of the youth.

Don Bosco College will follow the Salesian educational approach, integrating academic excellence with character formation, ethical values, and personal growth. The new institution is envisioned as a center of higher learning that will empower young people to become competent professionals and responsible citizens.

The ceremony concluded with the blessing of a statue of Don Bosco installed at the Salesian residence, symbolizing the spirit and inspiration behind the new venture. The foundation laying marks an important milestone for the Diocese of Udaipur and the Salesians of Mumbai Province, opening a new chapter in expanding access to quality higher education in southern Rajasthan.