REPORT ON THE 7TH NATIONAL EDUCATION CONFERENCE OF DON BOSCO SCHOOLS (NECDBS 2025)
12 Nov 2025
REPORT ON THE 7TH NATIONAL EDUCATION CONFERENCE OF DON BOSCO SCHOOLS (NECDBS 2025)
A Celebration of Faith, Excellence, and Transformative Leadership
The 7th National Education Conference of Don Bosco Schools (NECDBS 2025), hosted by the Province of Shillong (INS) and held at St. Anthony’s Higher Secondary School, Shillong, from 6th to 8th November 2025, was a resounding success, marking yet another milestone in the journey of Don Bosco education in India. With the theme “Educational Excellence in the Spirit of Don Bosco,” the event brought together 240 participants from 11 Salesian Provinces across the country - Principals, Rectors, Education Coordinators, and administrators united in their shared mission to renew Catholic education in the light of Don Bosco’s preventive system and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
The conference was an extraordinary blend of spiritual reflection, educational dialogue, cultural celebration, and fraternity, showcasing the Salesian spirit of collaboration, innovation, and holistic education.
The success of NECDBS 2025 is owed to the outstanding leadership and coordination of the Shillong Province (INS), under the inspiring guidance of Rev. Fr. John Zosiama, SDB, Provincial of Shillong. His motivational leadership and deep commitment to the Salesian mission set the tone for the entire event.
Special appreciation is due to Fr. Jeevan Lakra, Vice Provincial, for his beautiful coordination of liturgical and cultural programs; Fr. Genesius Wanniang, Province Economer, for prudent financial management and generous stewardship of resources; Fr. Babu Stephen, Convener and Organising Secretary, for his remarkable attention to detail, tireless presence throughout the preparation and execution, and efficient management of all logistical aspects.
Their collaborative leadership was the backbone of the conference’s success, supported by numerous confreres, committees, and volunteers who worked with enthusiasm and dedication.
The host institution, St. Anthony’s Higher Secondary School, under the gracious leadership of Fr. Anthony Kharkongor, Principal, set an exemplary standard of hospitality and professionalism. Fr. Anthony placed the entire school, its staff, support personnel, and facilities at the service of the event. His behind-the-scenes coordination ensured the smooth conduct of every session and the warm welcome of every guest.
We gratefully acknowledge Fr. Philip Barjo, Fr. Aiborlang Nongsiej, and the brothers of St. Anthony’s Theological College (STC) for preparing the venue, liturgy, decorations, and technical arrangements with excellence; The Sunnyside Community, Trinity Choir (Pynthorumkhrah), and Celestial Choir (Cathedral) for their devout and melodious contributions to the liturgical celebrations; Fr. Saji Stephen and Don Bosco Technical School Community for managing accommodation arrangements with precision; Fr.
Donbor Jyrwa, Manager of Don Bosco Technical School, for overseeing the catering and ensuring excellent hospitality; Fr. Thiewbor Kharsyntiew and Br. Anand Lakra for the smooth organization of transport logistics, supported by schools and institutions that generously provided vehicles for participants.
Their collective effort created an atmosphere of warmth, joy, and efficiency that reflected the true spirit of Don Bosco.
The Conference was inaugurated by His Excellency Shri Chandrashekhar H. Vijayashankar, the Governor of Meghalaya, who lauded the Salesian contribution to nation-building through education rooted in values and service. He emphasised that “Don Bosco Schools form not only competent students but also conscientious citizens imbued with integrity and compassion.”
The inaugural ceremony was further graced by Shri Lahkmen Rymbui, Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Ampareen Lyngdoh, MLA, and other government dignitaries. During the ceremony, the Honourable Minister released Dr (Fr) John Parankimalil’s new book, “The Ministry of Education: A Handbook for Catholic Educators,” a valuable contribution to educational leadership and formation.
The conference featured a rich array of talks, presentations and panel discussions that inspired reflection, dialogue, and renewal. Fr. Biju Michael, SDB, General Councillor for South Asia, delivered the keynote on “The Salesian Educator as an Agent of Transformative Change.” Fr. Maria Charles, SDB, Secretary of the CBCI Commission for Education and Culture, led a session on “Mentoring Skills for 21st-Century Educational Leaders.” Fr. Michael Makri, Media Specialist, Shillong Province, presented “From Chalkboards to Chatbots: How Media and AI are Changing Education.” Mr. Sunny Mawlong, Director of Hundredfold Academy and a proud alumnus of St. Anthony’s, shared insights on “Innovative Approaches to Student Engagement, Motivation, and Success.” Mr. Ali Sait and Dr. K.V. Vicent from Project Carte Blanche inspired participants with their session on “Digital Transformation and Hybrid Learning.” Fr. Savio Silveira, Coordinator for Integral Ecology, offered a stirring presentation on “Greening Education, Securing Futures – Educating Responsible Citizens and Safeguarding the Future of Our Planet.” Dr. Jonas Richard, Professor at Kristu Jayanti University, Bengaluru, captivated participants with his session on “Enhancing Well-Being and Resilience Among School Leaders and Teachers.”
Each presentation combined academic excellence with deep Salesian insight, addressing the challenges and opportunities of contemporary education.
Two dynamic panel discussions explored the practical implications of Salesian education in modern India. Panel I, moderated by Fr. P.D. John, Secretary of AIDBES, reflected on vocational education (Fr. George Mathew), youth ministry integration (Fr. Patrick Lepcha), administrative accountability (Fr. Joy Nedumparambil), poverty eradication (Fr. Tony Pellissery), and child protection (Mr. Pradeep).
Panel II, moderated by Fr. Babu Stephen, focused on future-ready schools with insights from Fr. M.C. George (balancing technology with human connection), Fr. Varghese Edathichira (upgrading schools under Project Carte Blanche), Fr. V.C. Jose (forming skilled and responsible learners), Fr. John Peter (fostering commitment through empowerment and engagement), and Fr. Flovi D’Souza (inclusive and safe school environment).
Both panels generated lively discussion and collective commitment toward a renewed educational mission.
The evenings were filled with joyful cultural performances by schools from Shillong, celebrating the region’s diversity and creativity. Under the guidance of Fr. Jeevan Lakra, the Cultural Extravaganza offered a beautiful synthesis of art, music, and faith. These moments of celebration strengthened the sense of fraternity among participants and highlighted the vibrancy of Salesian youth.
The Don Bosco Media Network, led by Fr. Michael Makri, deserves special recognition for their professional coverage, live streaming, and creative documentation of all major events. Their efforts allowed even those unable to attend to share in the spirit of the conference and ensured a lasting record of this national gathering.
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 embody Don Bosco’s vision of forming “good Christians and honest citizens,” ensuring that every school remains a beacon of faith, knowledge, and service.
The All India Don Bosco Education Society (AIDBES) expresses its profound gratitude to all who made NECDBS 2025 an outstanding success. Our heartfelt thanks to Fr. John Zosiama and the entire Shillong Provincial Council and the Confreres for their exemplary organization and hospitality; Fr. Babu Stephen, the Chief Coordinator, for his tireless dedication and outstanding leadership; Fr. Anthony Kharkongor and the staff of St. Anthony’s Higher Secondary School for hosting the conference with elegance and
warmth; All confreres, volunteers, support staff, and choirs for their joyful service and commitment.
The AIDBES National Team and the SPCSA Secretariat gratefully acknowledge the presence and encouragement of Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal, Provincial In-Charge of School Education, and Fr. Patrick Lepcha, Director of Don Bosco Youth Animation, South Asia.
We extend our sincere appreciation to all the resource persons whose insightful presentations, thought-provoking inputs, and valuable contributions enriched the conference and made it a truly meaningful and inspiring experience.
This event stands as a testimony to what the Salesian family can achieve when united by faith, collaboration, and love for the young.
The 7th NECDBS 2025 at Shillong was not merely a conference—it was a pilgrimage of faith and a movement of transformation. It reaffirmed Don Bosco’s enduring legacy in shaping minds, hearts, and futures through education rooted in faith, reason, and loving kindness.
As we look ahead, the AIDBES renews its commitment to accompany every Don Bosco School in India in realising these shared priorities - building a future where education transforms not only lives but also the society we serve.
Fr. (Dr.) John Parankimalil SDB Secretary, AIDBES & SPCSA Secretariat New Delhi, 12 November 2025