EDEN COLLEGE TURNS 70

EDEN COLLEGE TURNS 70.

Congratulations to the Manager Mrs L.Balgobin and Late. Mr Sachitanandsingh Balgobin for the Platinum Jubilee of Eden College. 38 years ago, precisely in May 1983, Mrs L.Balgobin stepped into the management to assure the Eden family of the continuity of work started by Late Mr. Balgobin. Her policy has been to focus on quality rather than quantity, offering up to date learning environment and wider facilities to students..

Its founder, Late. Mr Sachitanandsingh (Eden) Balgobin who was a pillar of education, one of the finest educationists the country has ever known. He was so dedicated to promote education in Mauritius that he opened several colleges to enable those primary school leavers of poor economic resources who could not been qualified for a seat in the state and religious institutions to continue their education at a time when schooling was not free. He persevered hard enough to make it a respectable place of learning that within a few years its reputation travelled far and wide. The motto he chose for his institution was “Let Knowledge Grow”..

1951 - Humble beginning of Eden College with about only 30 pupils in a small garage in Rose Hill. Through pure dedication and devotion to serve in the educational sector, Mr. Sachitanandsing Balgobin, also affectionately known as Eden, started his journey as the Pillar of the ‘Edonian’ family. Gradually, through his perseverance and vision, he constructed several departments in various regions of our island, with a view to provide education to one and all, but especially to those coming from poor backgrounds. He was the pioneer of the introduction of subjects such as, for example, Woodwork, Metal work, Statistics, Geometrical and Mechanical Drawing amongst others. As it can be seen, he was Midas amongst his people; the man with a golden touch. After his unexpected and premature demise in 1983, his better half, Mrs. Lalita Balgobin, stepped into his shoes and with great competence and patience, she shouldered her responsibilities as Manager efficiently. Today even after 38 years of management, it can be said that Mrs. Lalita Balgobin , despite all the ups and downs, has been able to fulfill the dream of her beloved late husband. She in reality deserves the title “Dame de Fer”. Thus, we all would like to wish our Lady a good health and a long life! Even during this pandemic situation of Covid-19, Eden College still holds its flag high above the sky!.

Well-known Figures of Eden College. Over the past 70 years, the Eden Colleges have produced very prospective students who have become good and responsible citizens and who have grown up to become well known figures in various activities of life today. So many ex- staff of Eden College were well known politicians, namely, Late. Mr. James Burty David Ramduth Jaddoo Harry Bauluck Mrs Sheila Bappoo Former Vice President Raouf Bundhun Mr Jaynarain Meetoo Mr Anand Mulloo.

Big Applause to Our Lady. It has been a privilege for me to be associated with the rise and expansion of Eden institution over the last 38 years. My interaction with the management team, the teaching and non teaching staff as well as the pupils and the parents over this span of time has been a most enriching and rewarding experience. Today it is of great pride that we see our former students serving the country in various capacities and diverse areas, be it social, economic, political or cultural. I believe we have lived up to the vision of my late husband, Mr. Sachitanandsingh (Eden) Balgobin , the founder of Eden Colleges. Mrs. Lalita Balgobin Manager of Eden Colleges G.O.S.K.

Paying a tribute. Founded in September 1951 in a small building in RoseHill , Eden College has through the 70 years of relentless efforts from both late Mr Sachidanansing Balgobin , the founder and Mrs Lalita Balgobin (GOSK),the present Manager ,grown to be one of the prestigious secondary education where side by side with academic studies , students benefit from an overall development be it personal, social or professional. It is not without a feeling of nostalgia that I look back over the years spent at Eden College and I would like to express a deep sense of gratitude to both of them for their inestimable contribution in the field of Education. Heartfelt Congratulations to Mrs Lalita Balgobin , who despite the numerous difficulties encountered since 1983 when she took over the management ,has kept Eden College afloat. Long live Eden College! Mrs R.Ayoob Cassim.

Management Team.

Mr Mittoo. I am one of the priviledged few to have been a student of EDEN College(1970-1976), an educator at EDEN College (1977- up to now) and to have worked with late Mr. Satchitanansing Balgobin and Mrs. Lalita Balgobin . I have worked for 7 years under the management of late Mr. Satchitanansing Balgobin and for 38 years under the management of Mrs. Lalita Balgobin . Mr Satchitanansing Balgobin founded the EDEN College in 1951. If we are here today it is thanks to the doings, vision and farsightedness of Mr. Satchitanansing Balgobin . During his reign there were about 15 Departments of EDEN Colleges and 12000 Students all across the Island. Thanks to Mr. Satchitanansing Balgobin thousands of students mainly from the lower strata of society obtained an education that was in live with the development of our Country. Thank you Mr. Satchitanansing Balgobin for the education, contribution and service in the educational field. Mr. Satchitanansing Balgobin left us prematurely in 1983 at the age of 51 for the heavenly abode. Mrs. Lalita Balgobin took office in 1983 and stepped into the shoes of her late husband. It was a very difficult task for her as everything happened so suddenly and unexpectedly. But with her strong character and highly disciplined mindset she has been able to face this extremely hard time. She has invested her whole life in the school since 1983. Mrs Lalita Balgobin is someone who likes perfection. She wants everything to be done perfectly and on time. She acknowledges hard work, results and loyalty. She has put more emphasis on quality than on quantity. Thanks to her, the school has year in, year out obtained 100% success in many subjects at SC and HSC levels. Her achievement in the education sector has been recognised by the Authorities and has won her GOSK in 2013. I have had the opportunity to be close to her since 1983. She has been a motherly figure for me and has stood by my side whenever I needed her. I wish her long life, good health and inner peace . Mr. J. Mittoo.

Mrs Shiboo.

Imprints on the various walks of life. It is a great honour for me to say a few words on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of Eden College. 1951 to 2021 is in itself a historical journey for the Edonian family. As a well reputed institution known for its remarkable discipline, Eden College has left its imprints on the various walks of life in myriad ways. Despite the fact that I have not known the founder of Eden College, the respected Late Mr Sachitanandsingh Balgobin , I must say that I have heard a lot about his passion and vision in making Eden College where it stands today. I would like to express my profound gratitude to the Manager, Mrs Lalita Balgobin for her unflinching support. She has been an exemplary Manager who has always shown an eagerness to make Eden College shine in terms of performance. She has contributed largely in making Eden College a successful institution. Last but not least, special thanks goes to the Rector Mrs A.Shiboo for her invaluable support, Mr J.Mittoo for his guidance and the administrative staff for their cooperation. Joined Eden College Girls in 2016 as a Sociology Educator, taught both Social and Modern studies and Sociology to students of Grade 7 up to Grade 13. Appointed as Head of Department, and also in charge of the Pastoral Care Committee whereby I handled complex cases of students mostly from deprived backgrounds. In 2020, I got the opportunity to shoulder the responsibilities as Acting Deputy Rector of Eden College Girls which was undoubtedly an enriching experience for me. My journey at Eden College Girls has been fruitful and I feel proud to see Ex-students of Eden College shining as high level professionals in different fields. Together, as a team, we have the potential to live up to all the expectations and to realize all our dreams. Long live Eden! Mrs Meenakshi Gopee (Ag Deputy Rector)d.

gniÅn. Teaching Staffs.

Administration Team.

Non- Teaching Staffs.

2009 & 2010 - 100 % Pass Rate at SC Level 2011 – Cultural Show organised for 60 th Anniversary of Eden College 2013 – Mrs L.Balgobin won her G.O.S.K 2017 – Launching of Nine- Year Schooling 2018 - Introduction of New Subjects Design and Technology(DT) BEE & Enterprise Travel and Tourism Performing Arts Life Skills and Values (LSV) Get Connected Music 2018 - Introduction of Extended Stream 2020 – 2021 - Challenges faced during Covid-19 Pandemic 2021 - Creation of SATLAB.

Launching of Nine- Year Schooling. 2017 – Introduction of National Curriculum Framework at National level in all Secondary Schools. Main objectives of the NCE (National Certificate of Education) which takes place at the end of the Nine-Year Continuous Basic Education are to: Guide students in their choice of subjects for grade 10 Promotion to grade 10 Opportunities to academics Introduction of Non-Core subjects such as: Performing Arts (Drama & Theatre/Music) Life Skills &Values Get Connected Music At Eden College and with the guidance of Mrs. L.Balgobin , we cater for specific needs to give the very best to our students..

In the past, Design and Technology (DT) subject was focused exclusively on Boys. Today, girls also are doing DT as a compulsory subject from Grade 7 to Grade 9 (NCE Exams). 2018 – Introduction & Implementation of DT at Eden College Girls and Setting up of a Design Studio Girls are showing incredible interest and creativity in terms of their artifacts and are performing very well in the subject. We take this opportunity to express our gratefulness to our school Manager, Mrs Balgobin and be part of Eden College, both as former student and currently, as Educator in the DT Department. Mr. D.Oxenham Mr. R.Ramchurn (DT Educators).

2018 – Introduction of New Subject “Enterprise” at Eden College. Dynamic subject and Opportunity for students to learn how to develop and run a business created from scratch Objective is to transform our young girls into strong and confident women leaders of tomorrow. 'Enterprise Day‘ – Annual Event for Business Demonstration Participation in Competitions namely, Young Talent by the FSC Stock Exchange of Mauritius Investment competition Ja Mascareignes Mini Company competition 2021 Winner at National Level 3rd at Regional (Africa) Level 1st at Public Choice Award. Bravo to our Girls for each time they fight for the pride of our school. Mrs. H.Teeha Ms. Veerasamy.

2010 – Introduction of New Subject Travel and Tourism at Eden Enriching subject , many tourism destinations and attractions are discovered around the world Event Organisation in upper classes that help to develop skills such as leadership and organizational skills Prepares students to start a career successfully in the tourism sector. Provides a holistic insight on the national and global impact of tourism on the economy, culture and environment of diverse countries. Mrs D.Prosper Mr A.Bhiwa Mrs S.Nagawah (Travel and Tourism Educators).

In 2009 I have joined the Eden family and Mrs Balgobin the manager has entrusted me the task of introducing a new subject Travel and Tourism in 2011. For me it was a real challenge and I wish to thank Mrs Balgobin for her support and encouragement. I have been given the opportunity to prove myself through extra curricular activities and have been part of the the student council team for several years. Being part of the Eden family has given me much pride and has contributed to building who I am today. I derive much satisfaction by contributing in the development of the students. I wish for Eden College to continue fulfilling its mission in forming the generation to come. Long live Eden College Mrs. D.Prosper Head of Travel & Tourism Department.

Down the memory lane. Les 70 ans du Collège Eden (1951- 2021) Soixante - dix ans déjà que le collège Eden porte haut le flambeau de l'éducation secondaire privée, filles et garçons. Son illustre fondateur feu Monsieur Sachitanandsing Balgobin (aussi connu comme Eden) a posé les premiers jalons dans un modeste garage avec un petit groupe d’élèves. C’était en 1951 où il n’y avait que très peu de collèges secondaires (d’états, confessionnels et privés confondus) à Maurice. Son but premier était de mettre une éducation d’excellence à la portée de tous, éducation qu’il voulait intégrale. Pionnier avant-gardiste, M. S. Balgobin a été un des premiers à introduire de nouvelles matières telles que l’économie et la comptabilité. Il a révolutionné le paysage éducatif en ouvrant par la suite plusieurs départements dans différents coins de l’île. Parti trop tôt en 1983 le très regretté Feu Monsieur Balgobin a laissé un grand vide dans le coeur de tous ceux qui l’ont côtoyé. Ces derniers gardent de lui le souvenir indélébile d’un être toujours à l’écoute et soucieux de leur bien-être, sa générosité n’ayant pas de bornes. Ce n’est nul autre que son épouse Madame L. Balgobin qui a depuis repris haut la main le flambeau du collège. Tâche titanesque à laquelle elle s’est attelée avec dévouement d'une main de fer dans un gant de velours, épaulée par une équipe de personnels enseignants et non enseignants toujours aussi motivés et dévoués. Sous sa férule, le collège, qui n’a rien à envier aux autres collèges du point de vue infrastructure, continue à briller non seulement dans le domaine académique, mais également dans des activités extrascolaires telles que compétitions d’entreprenariat, d’élocution, de poésie, créativité, débat et également d’autres disciplines sportives. Les élèves encouragés et encadrés par leurs enseignants rivalisent honorablement avec d’autres collèges remportant haut la main divers prix bien plus d’une fois. Le collège Eden, ne l’oublions pas, a toujours excellé également dans le domaine sportif aux jeux des inter-collèges . Aujourd’hui plus que jamais, dans le contexte actuel de crise sanitaire en temps de pandémie, le collège veille au grain au bien-être des membres de cette grande famille, surtout de ses enfants qui sont les futurs citoyens et dirigeants de notre pays. La direction et le personnel enseignant, faisant preuve de résilience et de courage, se dévouent à ce que les cours soient dispensés de façon à continuer le bon travail accompli, s’assurant que les élèves évoluent dans un milieu sanitaire protocolaire très pointilleux et dans un climat psychologique bénéfique à leur épanouissement . Que le collège Eden continue sur sa lancée avec de belles années encore, la relève étant assurée par mes jeunes collègues et amis tous aussi dévoués et tous animés de cette même passion pour cette noble profession! Patricia WONG.

Privileged and honored to work in this institution with a fully equipped and operational food lab where practicals are carried out daily. Being an educator, academic progress of the students is catered as well as their mental and physical wellbeing. Dealing with adolescent girls from different family background makes it a challenging task but at the end of the day, there is satisfaction and accomplishment. Mrs S.Bhunnoo Mrs Chintaram Food and Textile Educators.

2018 – Admission of First batch of Grade 7 Extended Stream 2021 – After 4 years in Eden College, these students , now in Grade 9+Ep will now take part for the NCE exams. The Extended program endured that all students were included, regardless of their social or psychological backgrounds. Different pedagogies were used by instructors to provide more personalised attention to the students. Finally all of these variables have resulted in a sacred tie between facilitators and students. Ms. D. Bhobooty Ms. A. Durga Ms. J. Némorin (Extended Program Facilitators).

In this era where Technology is ruling, where the term Internet of Everything is governing, the Eden College has engaged in developing a web based application where its aim is to facilitate communication among the Eden Family. All announcements be it from the Ministry, the Authority or Eden College management, are communicated to the staffs on this online platform. SatLab has been a very effective tool in developing a good bonding among staffs since its implementation. Big thanks go to the Manager Mrs. L. Balgobin for giving us such an effective medium to ease communication especially during this pandemic..

It gives me great pleasure to congratulate Eden College for all its achievements since its inception 70 years ago. Heartiest thanks to Late Mr. Balgobin, without whom, we would not be here today. Over the past seven decades, Eden College has been providing a strong foundation to nurture numerous proficient and dedicated students who are now occupying key positions in various sectors of Mauritius. I am extremely proud and pleased to have been part of this college for the past 14 years. I have devoted my career to educating, inspiring, and advocating for students. I am looking forward to bring my passion, enthusiasm and experience to cultivate the academic excellence and nurture the hidden potential in every Eden student. I wish to thank Mrs L.Balgobin who left an everlasting impression on me and been my inspiration in bringing more devotion to my works at Eden College. Mrs. B. Ferag-Canoo Head of Computer Department.

Health Club. “Every human being is the author of his own health or disease.” Buddha Aims of Health Club: Create a safe, caring and supportive learning environment Enable students to develop life-long skills, values and health behaviours Foster professional development in students by engaging in activities Promote good health advices and behavioural change in school. Help students become “Agents of change” and transfer good healthy habits to members of their family and friends. Health club organises activities like: Blood donation Health screening Talks and Preventive Measures related to Covid-19 Pandemic Mrs. A.Jhummun Ms. Gungabissoon.

Drastic Change in Education System Change in School Calendar and students are attending school 3 or 4 days per week. During Lockdown, online classes have been conducted to the best capacity of educators to allow continuous teaching and learning process to occur. The Staffs of Eden College have coped with the challenges related to the pandemic. The well-being of students have been the priority of Eden Family inspite of E-Learning being a new challenge for everyone. Despite of all the challenges that the Eden Family has come across, yet it should be pointed out that our students have raised up the Eden Flag by excelling both in their academic studies and in extra curricular activities..

2021 Post Covid-19 LockDown – Setting up of the Committee Aims of this committee: Ensure that all sanitary protocols are respected at school Sensitise all students, teaching and non-teaching staffs about the importance of: Frequent hand sanitising Washing hands frequently Age-appropriate mask use Proper Ventilation Daily Cleaning and Disinfection of the school environment Screening and care of sick students, educators and other school staffs Physical distancing of at least 1 metre between students.

Eden College is a discipline and hardwork haven.. Where values and ambition are treated even.. Where grooming better citizens of tomorrow primes academic success.. With the dedication of the Management, Teaching and Non Teaching Team, Our main objective is to fulfill Mr Balgobin's Dream.. The dream of providing education to respectable citizens of tomorrow! Heartfelt respect to Mr Balgobin on his Birthday and Happy 70th Anniversary to the Eden family. Long Live Eden College. Mrs. H. Teeha Head of Business Department.

Student Council. Objectives of Student Council Initiate, implement, and complete projects and activities which will be of help to the school Encourage personal growth through participation. Contribute to the educational experiences of students by providing them with a positive involvement in the school, with widened areas of responsibilities. Promote respect for Rules and Regulations of school Encourage students to become a well-informed, honest, interested and active citizenship. Develop not only leadership abilities within the youth of today, but also leadership for the community, state and nation of tomorrow. Increase student involvement and school pride. Activities Organised : Raise awareness on Covid-19 Independence Day Women’s Day English Day Donation at Grand Bassin Music Day Sports Day Abolition of Slavery World Water Day Enterprise Day.

The Management has been providing unflinching support to pupils’ participation in extra-curricular activities, such as debate, quiz, essay and elocution competitions at regional and national levels and many more....

Music Day. Some Events organised at Eden College over the past years..

Flag Raising Ceremony.

Long Live Eden College. Thank You Late Mr. S.Balgobin and Mrs. L.Balgobin for founding Eden College and providing Education for all..