(Salesian College Siliguri) – In a moving gesture of solidarity, Salesian College (Autonomous), with campuses in Sonada and Siliguri, has extended its unwavering support to students, faculty, and families affected by the recent landslides that have ravaged the Darjeeling hills and surrounding regions.
The landslides—triggered by relentless rainfall—have disrupted life across Darjeeling, Mirik, Kurseong, and nearby areas, leaving many displaced and distressed. Responding with characteristic compassion, the college leadership has assured its community that no student will be left behind in this time of crisis.
“Our prayers and thoughts are with all those enduring the difficulties caused by these landslides,” said Principal Fr. (Dr.) Babu Joseph in a heartfelt message. “Salesian College stands united with our students and staff from the affected regions. We understand the distress many are facing and assure every possible support—academic, financial, and emotional—during this recovery period.”
The college has activated its Office of Student Affairs and departmental heads to reach out to students from impacted areas. Measures include flexible attendance policies, extended submission deadlines, and rescheduled examinations. Counselling and pastoral care teams are also on standby to offer emotional and spiritual support.
Fr. Babu Joseph emphasized that the institution’s mission goes beyond academics. “We are a community rooted in faith and fraternity. In moments like these, our commitment to accompaniment becomes our most vital offering.”
Adding a voice from the hills, Dr. Prajwal Chhetri, Dean of Sciences, currently stranded in Kurseong, shared: “The landslides have cut off roads and shaken our homes, but the message from the Principal brought tears to my eyes. It reminded us that we are not alone. Salesian College is more than a workplace—it’s a family that walks with us, even through the storm.”
Salesian College, a UGC-certified institution with Potential for Excellence and NAAC Grade ‘A’ accreditation, has long been a beacon of inclusive education in the Eastern Himalayas. Its dual campuses in Sonada and Siliguri serve a diverse student body, many of whom hail from vulnerable hill communities.
The college has urged students and families in need of assistance—academic, administrative, or personal—to contact the college office or their department coordinators without hesitation.
As the region prays for safety and restoration, Salesian College’s response stands as a testament since 1938 to its founding charism: Ardens et Lucens—burning and shining with love and light.
Source: ANS – “Agenzia iNfo Salesiana”