Meet the Priest Who Built a Powerhouse of Education in Navi Mumbai

Navi Mumbai, February 21, 2025: Rev. Fr. Saturnino Almeida, a priest of the Society of Pilar, was honoured with the prestigious Sakaal Sanman 2025 award on February 12 at a grand ceremony in Bandra, Mumbai, for his outstanding contributions to education. With over four decades of dedicated service, he has transformed countless lives, shaping young minds and building one of Navi Mumbai’s most renowned educational institutions. His journey, marked by perseverance, faith, and an unwavering commitment to service, continues to inspire generations.

A Dream That Stood Against All Odds

Born in Goa in 1944, Fr. Almeida entered the Agnel Ashram Fathers with a mission to serve. In 1968, he arrived in Mumbai with no wealth or resources—only faith and a vision. His real challenge began in 1982, when he and his team took charge of a CIDCO-built school building in Vashi, an undeveloped area with no proper transport, facilities, or students willing to enrol.

Inspired by Fr. C. Rodrigues and Fr. Orlando Rodrigues, Fr. Almeida played a crucial role in building Fr. Agnel’s Educational Complex, which today stands as a beacon of academic excellence. Establishing a school in Vashi was a daunting challenge, with limited infrastructure, no transportation, and little community support. Despite frequent delays and financial hurdles, Fr. Almeida remained unwavering, turning his vision into a thriving institution that now stands as a beacon of hope.

The institution now houses schools, colleges, a sports complex, and even a business incubation center (CIBA), nurturing thousands of students annually.

Building Leaders, One Student at a Time

Fr. Almeida has held several leadership roles, including Managing Director of the Agnel Education Complex, Regional Head of the Agnel Region, and Counsellor to the Superior General of the Society of Pilar. He has also served as President of the Navi Mumbai Area Schools Association for over 30 years, fostering collaboration among schools.

His dedication has impacted countless lives, including Kiran Mathew Thomas, CEO of Jio Platforms Ltd., who credits him with shaping the institution:

"Beyond us individuals, Fr. Almeida's vision has built Fr. Agnel's into a powerhouse of education, empowering generations with knowledge and, most importantly, values."

Renowned scientist Bhushan Mahadik, Director of Research at Prellis Biologics, recalls:

"Fr. encouraged me to go beyond the curriculum and explore science in a way that has stayed with me. I owe my success to him."

Prasad Menon, Director of CIBA, reflects:

"He is one person who has shown how one can be gentle, kind, and at the same time firm and disciplined."

A Lasting Legacy

Fr. Almeida’s impact extends beyond academics. His initiatives, like Fr. Agnel’s Minithon, inclusive education policies, and festival celebrations, have fostered community, unity, and holistic growth. His advice to the youth remains simple yet profound: “Failure is not the opposite of success—it is a part of success. Keep moving forward.”

As he continues to inspire, his legacy is not just in the buildings he helped build but in the lives he has touched.

By Catholic Connect Reporter