Pune: The Bishop’s School marked a significant milestone with the inauguration of its new academic building at its Camp campus, where Padma Bhushan awardee and Serum Institute of India founder Dr. Cyrus S. Poonawalla reflected on the institution’s profound impact on his life and announced an additional contribution of ₹10 crore towards its future development.
Addressing the gathering at the inauguration ceremony, Dr. Cyrus S. Poonawalla said, “The Bishop’s School not only gave me an education but also laid the foundation for my entire life.
Whatever I am today is largely because of this institution. I take immense pride in being an alumnus of The Bishop’s School and will always be ready to support its growth and development in any way possible.”
The event was attended by Principal and Honorary Secretary Shane Macpherson, Bishop Education Society President Rudolph Woodman, Dr. Poonawalla’s grandson Darius Poonawalla, Headmistress Mayura Barse, members of the school management, teachers, alumni, parents, and other distinguished guests.
The newly inaugurated academic building at The Bishop’s School has been developed to strengthen the institution’s educational infrastructure and accommodate its growing academic requirements.
The project was made possible through the generous support of distinguished alumnus Dr. Cyrus S. Poonawalla and Adar C. Poonawalla, whose continued contributions have played an important role in advancing the institution’s development.
During the ceremony, Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla and Adar Poonawalla were felicitated for their invaluable contribution towards the construction of the new building.
Bishop Education Society President Rudolph Woodman and members of the governing board presented them with commemorative silver plaques in recognition of their support.
Also Read: Clear Robotics Secures $1.75 Million Pre-Series A Funding Led by Shipsfocus Ventures
Recalling his years as a student at The Bishop’s School, Dr. Poonawalla shared, “Whenever I visit this school, I am flooded with memories. I studied here from 1949 to 1958, and many experiences from that time remain vivid in my mind. It is hard to believe that a student once known for mischief is standing here today as the chief guest.
This new building is not merely a structure; it is a foundation for the bright future of generations of students. I consider it a privilege to have contributed to this initiative.”
Principal Shane Macpherson highlighted that the institution’s legacy spanning more than 160 years has been enriched by accomplished alumni such as Dr. Poonawalla.
He noted that the state-of-the-art facility has become a reality due to the generous support extended by the Poonawalla family and will significantly enhance students’ overall development.
Speaking about the growth of The Bishop’s School, Rudolph Woodman said the institution, established in 1864 in Pune’s Camp area, has expanded over the decades with additional campuses in Kalyani Nagar and Undri.
Today, more than 6,000 students are enrolled across its three campuses, making it one of Pune’s most respected educational institutions.
Woodman also recalled that the school had earlier honoured Dr. Poonawalla by naming a pedestrian bridge on the campus after him in recognition of his long-standing association with the institution and his continued commitment to its progress.
Additional ₹10 Crore Announced for The Bishop’s School Development
On the occasion, Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla announced an additional financial contribution of ₹10 crore for the future development of The Bishop’s School.
“Constructing buildings is important, but creating facilities that contribute to the holistic development of students is equally essential. This contribution is intended to support the school’s qualitative growth and various developmental initiatives,” he said.
The announcement received a standing ovation and enthusiastic applause from the audience, underscoring the significance of the contribution and the enduring relationship between Dr. Poonawalla and The Bishop’s School as it continues to expand its academic infrastructure and strengthen its legacy of education in Pune.
