Brother Prem epitomises excellence in education, leading Montfort Academy with an unwavering dedication and a deep-rooted commitment to holistic learning. As the director and principal, he embodies the core values of the Montfort Brothers of Saint Gabriel, drawing inspiration from their esteemed congregation’s rich history spanning over three centuries.
Early Inspirations and Journey to the Congregation
Brother Prem’s journey into education was profoundly influenced by his upbringing in a devout Catholic family, where the influence of his aunt, a nun, left an indelible mark on his path. Surrounded by a nurturing environment that revered the call to join a congregation, Brother Prem’s early years were shaped by the guidance of influential figures, including his pre-primary and primary school principal, who served as beacons of inspiration. It was during his formative years, at the tender age of 11 or 12, that Brother Prem’s conviction to pursue a vocation with the Montfort Brothers solidified, leading him to embrace this calling wholeheartedly in 2000, following the completion of his tenth grade.
The Genesis and Evolution of Montfort Academy
Founded in 1997, Montfort Academy emerged as a beacon of hope for underprivileged children, tracing its roots back to St. Joseph’s Boys’ Home in Calangute. Initially conceived as a platform for non-formal training in fabrication and fitting, the academy’s humble beginnings belied its lofty ambitions. Endowed with land by the diocese of Goa in Curling, Montfort Academy embarked on a transformative journey, expanding its curriculum to encompass accredited programs recognized by the National Council for Vocational Training (NCVT) and the State Council for Vocational Training (SCVT). This evolution paved the way for a diverse range of courses, from fitter and electronic mechanic to computer operator and programming assistant, laying a robust foundation for career advancement.
Celebrating Silver Jubilee
25 Years of Impactful Service to the Youth in Goa In 2022, Montfort Academy proudly celebrated its Silver Jubilee, marking 25 years of transformative education and impactful service to the youth in Goa. This milestone underscores the academy’s unwavering commitment to fostering skill development and holistic education, as envisioned by the Montfort Brothers of Saint Gabriel. Over the past quarter-century, the academy has evolved from its modest beginnings to become a beacon of hope and opportunity, profoundly influencing the lives of countless students and their families.
Expanding Collaborations and Advanced Training Programs
Under Brother Prem’s visionary leadership, Montfort Academy has transcended geographical boundaries, forging strategic alliances with multinational corporations to offer cutting-edge training programs. Collaborations with industry titans such as Tata Motors, Toyota, and Godrej have propelled the academy to the forefront of vocational education. The inauguration of the AC repair center by CM Prabhupada Sahvan stands as a testament to Montfort Academy’s unwavering commitment to excellence, while the recent addition of a Yamaha training program underscores its dedication to diversifying its offerings and meeting evolving industry demands.
Class Structure and Internship Programs
At the heart of Montfort Academy’s pedagogical approach lies a commitment to personalised learning, with class sizes meticulously tailored to ensure optimal student engagement. With a maximum of 20 students per batch, each learner benefits from individualised attention, fostering an environment conducive to holistic development. The curriculum, predominantly practical-based, places a premium on hands-on experience, complemented by immersive internship programs that afford students invaluable industry exposure. Whether embarking on a three-month crash course or a comprehensive two-year program, every student is equipped with the requisite skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen field.
Overcoming Challenges and Promoting the Dignity of Labour
Despite making significant strides, Montfort Academy has encountered its fair share of challenges, chief among them being the prevailing societal stigma attached to manual labour. Brother Prem’s steadfast resolve to dispel these misconceptions has been instrumental in fostering a culture that celebrates the dignity of all forms of work. Through targeted interventions and ongoing counselling sessions, he has championed the cause of skill acquisition, underscoring its intrinsic value and empowering individuals to pursue vocational paths with pride and purpose.
Financial Support and Scholarships
In its relentless pursuit of educational equity, Montfort Academy remains unwavering in its commitment to ensuring that financial constraints never serve as impediments to students’ aspirations. Recognizing the socio-economic diversity of its student body, the academy extends concessions and scholarships to deserving candidates from marginalised backgrounds. Government subsidies and corporate sponsorships further bolster these initiatives, ensuring that no student is deprived of access to quality education due to economic circumstances.
Introducing the Nursing Initiative
In response to the burgeoning demand for skilled healthcare professionals, Brother Prem spearheaded the establishment of a home nursing program in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Beijing and other stakeholders. This pioneering initiative, certified by the Human Resource Development (HRD) department, offers a comprehensive curriculum encompassing theoretical instruction and hands-on training. By providing rural youth with opportunities for gainful employment in the healthcare sector, Montfort Academy continues to bridge the gap between education and employment, catalysing socio-economic empowerment.
National and International Engagements
Brother Prem’s impact transcends the confines of Montfort Academy, resonating on both national and international platforms. As a governing body member of SCIP—a distinguished national NGO comprising 280 technical institutes—he has played a pivotal role in shaping vocational education policies. His international sojourns, including visits to Germany, Switzerland, France, and Italy, have broadened his horizons and enriched Montfort Academy’s curriculum with global best practices, ensuring that students receive a world-class education that is abreast of contemporary industry trends.
Impact and Success Stories
The true measure of Montfort Academy’s success lies in the transformative journeys of its alumni. Whose accomplishments serve as beacons of inspiration for future generations. From Joel’s remarkable ascent from uncertainty to success in the UK’s aerospace industry to countless others finding their footing in the Gulf countries, each narrative underscores the pivotal role played by Montfort Academy in empowering individuals and catalysing socio-economic mobility.
The NIOS Initiative
In recognition of the diverse educational needs of its students. Montfort Academy embraced the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) as an alternative educational pathway. This pioneering initiative empowers students to pursue their tenth and twelfth grades. Concurrently with vocational training, opening doors to a plethora of opportunities in both academic and professional spheres. Over the past fifteen years, the NIOS program has enabled countless students to secure government jobs and pursue higher education, laying a robust foundation for lifelong success.
Community Outreach and Dream Builders Programs
Amidst the challenges posed by the global pandemic, Montfort Academy emerged as a beacon of hope, spearheading community outreach initiatives to support vulnerable individuals. The Vyaam program, initiated by Brother Prem, offers counselling and support to individuals. Grappling with emotional and psychological challenges, fostering resilience and well-being. Simultaneously, the Dream Builders program fosters holistic development through sports, language training, and music classes, enriching the lives of students and the wider community alike.
Future Vision: An Integrated Campus
Looking ahead, Brother Prem envisions Montfort Academy as an integrated ecosystem of learning. Where academic, vocational, and extracurricular pursuits converge harmoniously. The recent launch of a pre-primary school with a CBSE curriculum marks a significant milestone in this journey towards holistic education. By providing top-notch academic instruction, advanced vocational training, and state-of-the-art sports facilities, the academy is poised to nurture the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers, equipping them with the skills and mindset to thrive in an ever-evolving world.
Brother Prem’s transformative leadership continues to chart new horizons for Montfort Academy, inspiring generations to realise their fullest potential. With a steadfast commitment to excellence and a vision for a brighter tomorrow. He remains a guiding force, illuminating the path towards a future where education knows no bounds.
