St. Xavier's University Kolkata Alumni Association (SXUKAA) organised a Christmas get-together for academicians and its well-wishers on December 20, 2023 at the university campus. Around 60 Principals of different schools and colleges of Kolkata and Vice-Chancellors of universities attended the programme.

At the beginning, Rev. Dr. John Felix Raj, S.J., Vice-Chancellor of SXUK presented a Christmas message to all participants. He said, "A thousand times in history, a baby has become a king. But only once in history did a king become a baby. As Christ visits us, he reposes in us the message and meaning of life and mission."

On the occasion of the birth of the Divine Babe, Father Raj recalled the truth of every religion, saying, "Religion is an endeavor to preserve the beauty of our conscience and intention in our actions. It can never be the source of fundamentalism and violence."

He further added, "We are the makers and markers of our destiny. On this holy moment, we should pledge to break the boundaries of superstitions and parochialism and be illumined by divine delight."

The gathering had an academic side to it where participants discussed current issues of the mobility of students from West Bengal to other cities, states and abroad.

The discussion was initiated by the inputs of Mrs. Jessica Gomes Surana, Principal, Loreto Day School, Elliot Road, followed by Dr. Deepali Singhee, Principal, J D Birla Institute and Prof. Suranjan Das, Vice-Chancellor, Adamas University.

Various issues related to the topic were discussed. Prof. Suranjan Das proposed to Father Raj to undertake a research project on the topic. Father Raj proudly responded, "Our university will take up this research project by a team of professors."

The team of students and faculty members of XUCAS presented heart-touching carols and dances depicting the Christmas message. Their performance was highly appreciated. All the participants led by Father Raj then joined together and cut the Christmas cake.

The entire programme took place on the open ground in the quadrangle of the academic block. The quadrangle was beautifully adorned. Thanks to Mr. Vatsal Chirimar and his team members for organising the programme.

Dr. Somak Sen