Shillong 8th November 2025: The 7th National Educational Conference of Don Bosco Schools (NECDBS) 2025 was held with great grandeur and significance at St. Anthony’s Higher Secondary School, Shillong, from 6th to 8th November 2025. The event was graciously hosted by the Salesian Province of Shillong and convened by Rev. Fr. Babu Stephen SDB, who served as the General Convener of the Conference. The three-day gathering brought together 240 Principals and delegates representing Don Bosco Schools from 11 Salesian Provinces across South Asia, making it a vibrant forum of collaboration, reflection, and renewal in the field of Salesian education.
The inaugural ceremony took place in the presence of an august gathering of dignitaries, guests, and participants. The Chief Guest, Shri. Lahkmen Rymbui, Honourable Minister for Education, Information & Public Relations, Law, Revenue & Disaster Management, Government of Meghalaya, formally inaugurated the conference, while Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, Honourable MLA of Laitumkhrah Constituency, graced the event as the Guest of Honour. The inaugural Eucharist was solemnly presided over by His Grace Most Rev. Victor Lyngdoh DD, Archbishop of Shillong, invoking God’s blessings upon all the delegates and the proceedings.
Present on the occasion were several eminent Salesian leaders and dignitaries: Rev. Fr. Biju Michael SDB, General Councillor for South Asia; Rev. Fr. John Zosiama SDB, Provincial of Shillong; Rev. Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal SDB, Provincial of Guwahati and In-charge of Schools; Rev. Fr. Jose Koyickal SDB, Provincial of Bangalore; Sr. Mabel Dkhar VSDB, Mother General of the VSDB Congregation; Sr. Rosa Pyngrope FMA, Provincial of FMA Shillong; Fr. Bivan Mukhim SDB, Vice Provincial of Guwahati; Fr. Jeevan Lakra SDB, Vice Provincial of Shillong; Fr. Joy Nedumparambil SDB, Economer of Bangalore Province; Fr. Charles Maria SDB, Incharge of CBCI Education; Fr. John Parankimalil SDB, Secretary of SPCSA and AIDBES; Fr. Patrick Lepcha SDB, Delegate for Youth Ministry, South Asia; Fr. Savio Silveira SDB, Coordinator for Integrated Ecology; and Fr. Philip Barjo SDB, Rector of STC, Shillong, along with many other members of the Salesian Family, teachers, and well-wishers.
A special highlight of the opening day was the visit and address by His Excellency Shri. C. H. Vijay Shankar, Honourable Governor of Meghalaya, whose presence added prestige and inspiration to the occasion. In his address, the Governor commended the Salesian commitment to nation-building through education, calling it a beacon of hope and human development. Both Shri. Lahkmen Rymbui and Dr. Ampareen Lyngdoh lauded the Salesians of Don Bosco for their immense contribution to the educational and social uplift of the people of Northeast India, particularly in Meghalaya.
The first day’s sessions set the intellectual and reflective tone of the conference. Fr. Charles Maria SDB delivered an enriching presentation on “Mentoring Skills for 21st Century Educational Leaders”, emphasizing the role of Salesian principals as mentors and guides in the evolving educational landscape. This was followed by a deeply inspiring session by Fr. Biju Michael SDB on “The Salesian Educator – Agent of Transformative Change in Human Behaviour and Development”, which captivated and moved the audience with its depth and practical insight.
The afternoon witnessed Panel Discussion on the theme “Emerging Challenges and Opportunities in Salesian Education”, featuring insightful presentations by:
Fr. George Mathew – Integrating Vocational Education in School Curriculum (NEP Perspective);
Fr. Patrick Lepcha – Integrating the Four Dimensions of Youth Ministry;
Fr. Joy Nedumparambil – Accountability in School Administration;
Fr. Tony Pellissery – Mission Poverty Eradication and the Role of Don Bosco Institutions;
Mr. Pradeep – Child Protection in Education; and
The session culminated with an engaging and futuristic presentation by Fr. Michael Makri, Media Specialist from Shillong, on “From Chalkboards to Chatbots: How Media & AI Are Changing Education.” His session drew special attention for its clarity, creativity, and relevance in today’s rapidly evolving digital world. Fr. Makri highlighted the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence and digital media in reimagining classrooms, pedagogy, and student engagement.
The day concluded with a colourful cultural evening, where students from various Shillong institutions showcased the rich cultural heritage of Northeast India through music, dance, and visual performances. The event was a celebration of unity in diversity and was met with overwhelming appreciation.
The second day began with the Holy Eucharist presided over by Fr. John Zosiama SDB, Provincial of Shillong. The sessions that followed were dynamic and future-focused. Mr. Sunny Mawlong, Managing Director of Hundredfold Academy, Shillong, delivered a stimulating talk on “Innovative Approaches to Student Engagement, Motivation, and Success”, urging educators to adapt creative strategies in pedagogy. The session on “Digital Transformation and Hybrid Learning – Project Carte Blanche” was led by Mr. Ali Sait and Mr. K. V. Vincent from Tech Vant-Garde, Bangalore, who explored the possibilities of blending technology with Salesian educational values.
The Panel Discussion titled “Shaping Future-Ready Salesian Schools”, included the following presentations:
Fr. M. C. George – Balancing Technology with Human Touch;
Fr. Varghese Edathichira – Updating and Upgrading Our Schools (Project Carte Blanche);
Fr. V. C. Jose – Shaping Future-Ready, Skilled, and Responsible Learners;
Fr. John Peter – Fostering Staff Institutional Commitment; and
Fr. Flovi D’Souza – Fostering Inclusive and Safe School Environment.
Following the panel discussion, the participants had the privilege of listening to Rev. Fr. Savio Silveira SDB, Former Provincial of Mumbai, who spoke on “Greening Education, Securing Futures.” His session emphasized the urgent need for ecological awareness and sustainable practices within Salesian institutions, aligning education with care for creation — a message deeply resonant with Don Bosco’s holistic vision for the young.
The third and final day opened with a Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal SDB, Provincial of Guwahati. The morning featured a deeply engaging session by Dr. Jonas Richard from Kristu Jayanti College, Bangalore, on “Enhancing Well-Being and Resilience Among School Leaders”, which addressed the vital need for mental, emotional, and spiritual strength among educational leaders. The Takeaway Session, led by Fr. Babu Stephen SDB, summarized the major insights, reflections, and learnings from the three-day event, encouraging participants to carry the Salesian vision of transformative education back to their respective institutions.
The Closing Ceremony was marked by heartfelt messages of gratitude and inspiration. Fr. Jose Koyickal SDB, Provincial of Bangalore and In charge of Education and Culture, and Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal SDB, Provincial of Guwahati, addressed the gathering, appreciating the spirit of collaboration and active participation of all delegates. Fr. Gabriel Colney, on behalf of the host province, proposed the Vote of Thanks, expressing deep gratitude to the speakers, dignitaries, and organizing team for their dedication and cooperation.
The conference concluded at 1:00 p.m. on 8th November 2025, leaving behind a rich legacy of shared learning, fraternity, and renewed zeal for the Salesian mission in education. The 240 participating principals and delegates actively engaged in discussions, clarified concepts, exchanged innovative ideas, and reaffirmed their commitment to Don Bosco’s vision of holistic education.
The 7th NECDBS 2025 truly became a celebration of “Educational Excellence in the Spirit of Don Bosco”—a moment of reflection, transformation, and recommitment to forming “good Christians and honest citizens” for a better tomorrow. Deep appreciation was expressed to Rev. Fr. Babu Stephen SDB, the General Convener, and the Salesian Province of Shillong for their meticulous organization, warm hospitality, and inspiring leadership that made this national conference a grand success.
Reported by Fr Babu Stephen
