NECDBS-2025

7th NECDBS in Shillong: A Celebration of Vision, Excellence, and Faith

11 November 2025

Education,

The hill city of Shillong became a vibrant hub of faith, intellect, and fraternity as over 240 principals and educational leaders from 11 Salesian provinces across South Asia gathered for the 7th National Educational Conference of Don Bosco Schools (NECDBS 2025). Hosted by St. Anthony's Higher Secondary School, Shillong, from 6–8 November 2025, and themed "Educational Excellence in the Spirit of Don Bosco," the landmark event was a resounding celebration of Don Bosco's enduring educational mission — to form "good Christians and honest citizens."

Organized under the leadership of the Salesian Province of Shillong (INS), the conference combined spiritual depth, academic reflection, and cultural vibrancy. Rev. Fr. Babu Stephen, SDB, served as the General Convener, supported by Fr. John Zosiama, Provincial of Shillong, whose guidance significantly contributed to the event's success. The organizing team — Fr. Jeevan Lakra, Fr. Genesius Wanniang, Fr. Anthony Kharkongor, and Fr. Michael Makri — ensured flawless coordination, warm hospitality, and creative communication throughout the three-day gathering.

Inaugural Ceremony: Faith and Vision for the Future

The opening ceremony on November 6 drew an august gathering of church and civic dignitaries. Shri Lahkmen Rymbui, Honourable Minister for Education, formally inaugurated the conference, while Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, MLA, Laitumkhrah Constituency, attended as the Guest of Honour. The event was blessed by the inaugural Eucharist celebrated by Most Rev. Victor Lyngdoh, Archbishop of Shillong.

A special moment came with the presence of His Excellency Shri Chandrashekhar H. Vijayashankar, Governor of Meghalaya, who lauded the Salesians for their "transformative role in nation-building through education." In his keynote address, the Governor hailed Don Bosco Schools as "beacons of hope that mould students not only for success but for service."

The Minister of Education also released a new publication by Dr. (Fr.) John Parankimalil, titled "The Ministry of Education: A Handbook for Catholic Educators," which will serve as a resource for teachers and administrators nationwide.

Thought Leadership and Educational Innovation

The intellectual sessions of NECDBS 2025 reflected a dynamic blend of faith and innovation. Fr. Biju Michael, SDB, General Councillor for South Asia, delivered the keynote address, "The Salesian Educator as an Agent of Transformative Change," inspiring participants to view education as a vocation of love and transformation. Fr. Charles Maria, SDB, Secretary of the CBCI Commission for Education and Culture, presented on "Mentoring Skills for 21st Century Educational Leaders," emphasizing leadership rooted in empathy and integrity.

Panel discussions explored pressing themes shaping the future of Salesian education. The first panel, moderated by Fr. John Parankimalil, examined topics such as vocational education (Fr. George Mathew), youth ministry integration (Fr. Patrick Lepcha), administrative accountability (Fr. Joy Nedumparambil), and poverty eradication (Fr. Tony Pellissery). Mr. Pradeep highlighted the importance of child protection in schools.

The second panel, moderated by Fr. Babu Stephen, focused on building future-ready institutions. Speakers included Fr. M.C. George on balancing technology with human connection, Fr. Varghese Edathichira on upgrading schools under Project Carte Blanche, and Fr. V.C. Jose on forming skilled and responsible learners.

Sessions led by experts such as Mr. Sunny Mawlong (Hundredfold Academy), Mr. Ali Sait, and Mr. K.V. Vincent (Tech Vant-Garde, Bangalore) highlighted digital transformation, hybrid learning, and strategies for student engagement. Fr. Savio Silveira, SDB, Former Provincial of Mumbai, called for "Greening Education" through sustainable practices, while Dr. Jonas Richard from Kristu Jayanti College, Bangalore, led a reflective session on the well-being and resilience of school leaders.

From Chalkboards to Chatbots: AI in the Classroom

A standout session by Fr. Michael Makri, Media Specialist from Shillong, titled "From Chalkboards to Chatbots: How Media and AI Are Changing Education," captivated the audience. Blending humour, vision, and insight, Fr. Makri explored the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence and digital media in reshaping pedagogy and engagement. "AI must serve humanity and enhance compassion in classrooms," he emphasized, earning a standing ovation.

Faith, Culture, and Celebration

Each day of the conference began with the Holy Eucharist, presided over by different Provincials — Fr. John Zosiama (Shillong), Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal (Guwahati), and Fr. Jose Koyickal (Bangalore) — grounding the discussions in prayer and gratitude.

Evenings came alive with music, dance, and the vibrant rhythms of Northeast India. The Cultural Extravaganza, featuring students from Shillong institutions, celebrated India's diversity and the joy of the Salesian community. Participants described the performances as "a living testament to Don Bosco's spirit of youthfulness and creativity."

Five National Priorities for the Future

A significant outcome of NECDBS 2025 was the formulation of Five National Priorities to guide Don Bosco Schools across India (2025–2028):

1. Value-Based and Holistic Education – Strengthening Don Bosco's vision of forming "good Christians and honest citizens."

2. Formation and Mentoring of Educational Leaders – Building competent, compassionate, and faith-filled leadership.

3. Green Alliance and Ecological Transformation – Promoting sustainability in all institutions.

4. Child Protection and School Well-Being – Ensuring safe and inclusive learning environments.

5. Digital Transformation and Hybrid Learning – Harnessing technology for innovation and inclusion.

These priorities were unanimously affirmed by the delegates, reflecting the Salesian conviction to "educate by evangelizing and evangelize by educating."

Closing with Gratitude and Vision

In the concluding session, Fr. Babu Stephen, General Convener, summarized the conference's key insights, describing it as "a sacred journey of reflection, renewal, and recommitment to Don Bosco's dream for the young." Messages of appreciation were offered by Fr. Jose Koyickal, Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal, and Fr. Gabriel Colney, who delivered the vote of thanks on behalf of the host province.

As the conference drew to a close on November 8, delegates departed with renewed zeal to lead their institutions with faith, excellence, and love. The 7th NECDBS 2025 stood not just as a conference, but as a movement of hope and transformation — reaffirming that every Don Bosco School remains a radiant beacon of faith, knowledge, and service for the youth of India.