HISTORY  OF  ST. JOSEPH’S  CONVENT  HIGHER  SECONDARY  SCHOOL  SAMBALPUR

The decade between 1958-68 saw a rapid expansion in various fields, particularly in Education in Sambalpur, hitherto known as a backward District.

It was the enthusiasm and zeal of a small but dedicated band of educated citizens who created awareness among people of the need of education. There was a great felt need to have a Kindergarten and a Public school run on modern lines – an English medium school.  However it was an Yeoman task to find qualified teachers.

The then MLA Late Mr. Banamali Babu took the initiative with the permission of the group to contact the Catholic Organization.  He met Rev. Bishop Westermann in Kalunga, who was so much pleased with their effort, determination and sacrifice that he sent word, some months later that the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph had agreed to send few teachers in the following year.

On 21.01.1963 Sister Mary Anne and Sisters Mary Catherine and Geralyn Anne arrived from Pachmarhi (M.P.) to organize the St. Joseph’s Convent School.

The first child was admitted to the school on 26.01.1963 and in all 115 children were taken in when admissions closed on the 11th February 1963. 

 It is open to all students irrespective of caste, creed and language, who are willing to abide by the principles and practices of this Institution. 

The aim of this education programme is to impart sound education, instill praiseworthy character, and create balanced judgment and robust physique so as to enable its pupils to blossom useful citizens.  It aims at all round development of the students:  spiritual, physical, intellectual, emotional, moral, aesthetic and social faculties.  

Much water has flown down the Mahanadi since then.  Succeeding principals S. Ann Mary, Sr. Elizabeth, Sr. Ann Charlotte, Sr. Assunta, Sr. Audrey, Sr. Stanislaus, Sr. Damian and currently Sr. Maurice have equally left indelible impressions in the mind of both children and their parents. The school has grown significantly with magnificent buildings of its own, with girls and boys up to Junior College (+2)  having Science and Commerce stream of education.  (2003 – 04)