Agartala came alive with youthful energy as Spes Unica 2025 was held from 16–18 August at Holy Cross School, Agartala. Organized by the Holy Cross Educational Foundation (HCEF), the bi-annual students’ gathering brought together 300 students and their animators from 10 Holy Cross schools across Tripura.
Guided by the theme “Crossing Borders, Carrying Hope,” the event encouraged students to rise above divisions of culture, language, and background, fostering unity, friendship, and shared responsibility as young leaders in today’s world.
The programme was inaugurated on 16 August and concluded on 18 August in the presence of Most Rev. Lumen Monteiro, CSC, Bishop of Agartala, as Chief Guest, and Fr. K. J. Abraham, CSC, Provincial Superior, as Guest of Honour. During the opening ceremony, several Catholic government officers and educators from Agartala were felicitated for their service and positive contribution to society.
Over three days, participants engaged in cultural exchanges, competitions, leadership sessions, and various group activities, culminating in a closing ceremony that included reflections and testimonies from students who shared how the experience strengthened their teamwork, confidence, and friendships.
True to its name—Ave Crux, Spes Unica (“The Cross, Our Only Hope”)—the programme offered young people a platform to grow in creativity, leadership, and community spirit while upholding the core values promoted by Holy Cross institutions. This year’s gathering was a fitting tribute to the vision of Blessed Basile Moreau, Founder of the Congregation of Holy Cross, who believed in educating both the hearts and minds of youth to build a more humane and responsible society.