Twenty-one students successfully completed another academic year at Bhaktivedanta College in Radhadesh, Belgium, and a graduation ceremony took place on June sixteenth. The room was crowded when the tired but satisfied undergraduates and staff were joined by cheering temple devotees, friends, supporting members, and a few proud parents.

The evening celebration began with a bhajan led by the students. This year’s honored guests were Lokanath Swami and a former student, Lilasuka Dasa. Jaya Krishna Dasa, the Administrator Officer, coordinated the agenda and spoke about the successful seventh academic year. Yadunandana Swami, the Principal, reminded students of their accomplishments and described the skills gained in the devotional, vocational and academic modules. Our supporting members were reminded of the college’s exceptional aim: training leaders and scholars to contribute to IKSKCON.

Lokanath Swami offered his utmost support to the college and enlightened the audience about Srila Prabhupada’s own experience in the field of education and his instructions on spiritual education. Finally, Lilasuka shared some of his experiences while pursuing graduate studies in Indic Religions. Comparing contemporary education at a regular university to what he received at Bhaktivedanta College, he assured everyone that the latter is of the highest quality.

The ceremony featured the distribution of graduation certificates and two Bachelor’s degrees. Each student was called to the front of the room to receive these from Lokanath Swami, after Yadunandana Swami kindly praised each student’s achievements. The students’ faces lit up (or maybe dampened) as they read the concluding marks and feedback from the college staff. In a mood of Vaishnava etiquette, gifts were exchanged by the students, teachers, and staff.

An entertaining and touching play was performed by a first-year student, Nimai, and the temple’s Bhakta Nir. Laxmimoni Dasi, the Dean of the college and women’s ashram supervisor, skillfully directed the drama.

The program concluded with a melodious kirtan led by Lokanath Swami. Then the sharing, laughter, and associaton continued outside in a tent for a meal of sanctified pizzas and sweets.