DON BOSCO SCHOOLS INDIA
Salesian Education and Culture Coordinators Conclude Inspiring Three-day Conference
The Salesian Education and Culture and School Coordinators from across India gathered at Christ University, Kengeri, Bangalore, from October 21 to 23, 2024, for a dynamic conference focused on advancing Don Bosco’s educational mission across the country. Organized under the guidance of Rev. Fr. John Parankimalil, Coordinator of Education and Culture Dimension as the Secretary of All India Don Bosco Education Society (AIDBES).
Rev. Fr. Jose Koyickal, Provincial of the Bangalore Province and the Provincial In Charge of Education and Culture, and Rev. Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal, the Provincial of Guwahati, and the Provincial In Charge of AIDBES were present on all the days of the meeting and gave valuable input sessions. They emphasized holistic and value-centred education that empowers youth and fosters a culture of dialogue.
The conference commenced with a welcoming address by Rev. Fr. John Parankimalil and a prayer led by students of Don Bosco College, KR Puram, Bangalore. Rev. Fr. Miguel Angel Garcia, General Councillor for Youth Ministry, and Rev. Fr. Biju Michael, Regional Councillor, shared video messages highlighting the importance of accessibility and compassion in youth ministry. Rev. Fr. Patrick Lepcha, Director of DBYA, shared insights from Pope Francis' document, The Identity of a Catholic School for a Culture of Dialogue, setting ten goals for Salesian educational initiatives.
Throughout the conference, province representatives presented reports on their unique contributions, from commitment to tribal education to emphasis on sports and holistic child-centred learning. Notable presentations included EDUSTAR, a new school assessment tool introduced to support Salesian schools in achieving educational excellence. The assessment tool has been prepared by Fr. Thaddeus Gregory of Bosco Soft Technologies under the patronage of AIDBES.
The conference also explored cutting-edge educational technologies presented by industry experts. Innovations like E-Ink technology, interactive displays, and digital safety curricula were introduced, offering coordinators the latest tools to enhance learning environments while fostering safe and inclusive student spaces.
A special highlight was the presentation by Rev. Fr. Peter Gonzalves, who spoke on “Advancing Salesian Education: An Evolutionary Analysis of St. John Bosco’s Preventive System for Peacebuilding,” offering fresh insights on the Preventive System’s role in promoting peace. Attendees highly appreciated his scholarly analysis.
The assembly concluded with a series of strategic resolutions and expressions of gratitude from the leadership. Rev. Fr. Augustine Toppo from the New Delhi Province gave a formal vote of thanks to mark the conclusion of this collaborative gathering, reinforcing the shared commitment to shaping a compassionate and transformative education system. Rev. Fr. Geo Kalladanthiyil, Education and Culture Dimension Coordinator of Bangalore Province, locally coordinated the entire event.
This landmark event underscores the Salesians' commitment to fostering an inclusive, values-driven educational framework across India, inspired by Don Bosco’s vision for a just and compassionate society.
- Secretaries: Fr. Anil Kumar Toppo, INC & Fr. Ajit Munis, INB
Mother Teresa once said, "There is more hunger for love and appreciation in this world than for bread." This statement underscores the profound impact that appreciation can have on individuals, particularly students.
St. John Bosco, affectionately called Don Bosco, was not a theorist but a practical man with a compassionate heart and a zeal to save the youngsters from the all the perils and with a dream to provide them with holistic education.