Bishop Hubert D’ Rosario SDB, the first Archbishop of Shillong, took a keen interest in advancing the church’s presence in Karbi Anglong. He extended an invitation to the Apostolic Carmel sisters to oversee the parish school in Diphu. With the consent of Superior General Mother Theodosia, Sr. Bernard, the regional superior at the time, visited both Sojong and Diphu and agreed to establish missions in both locations.
In February 1971, Mr. Felix, who had managed the school for two years prior, entrusted its care to the sisters. Initially starting as a nursery, the Don Bosco Higher Secondary School has grown to include classes up to XII. Its student body reflects a diverse mix of tribal and non-tribal backgrounds. Tribes such as the Karbi, Garos, Adivasis, Nagas, Bodos, Demasas, Khasis, Labungs, Mizos, and Kukies are represented among the former, while the latter includes Assamese, Bengalis, Biharis, Nepalis, Shyamas, Marwaris, Malayalis, Punjabis, and others. The school has been blessed abundantly, producing numerous educated, refined, and socially beneficial citizens dedicated to serving the nation and its people.
The community of sisters has always been deeply intertwined with parish life, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration with the priests. Together, they work tirelessly toward the common goal of advancing the church’s mission.
On April 4, 1976, alongside the inauguration of a new boarding house, another institution was established: the Little Flower Training Centre, a weaving school for girls and women. Situated to accommodate 30 students from various diocesan parishes, this center aims to educate Catholic Karbi girls who had dropped out of school. Students receive training in weaving, tailoring, and religious studies through catechism. The center has operated effectively, with graduates receiving certificates in weaving, tailoring, and catechesis, as well as sewing machines instead of looms.
The dreams of the pioneers have come to fruition through their dedication to education and other hostel and church activities. Presently, the sisters continue to fulfill their responsibilities with profound love and dedication, earning widespread appreciation for their contributions.
