(ANS – Mumbai) – National Educational Conference of Don Bosco Schools (NECDBS) 2014 concluded on 9 November at Don Bosco International School Matunga, Mumbai, with an eventful day of animation sessions, discussions and cultural programmes. The meeting had begun on 6 November with the participation of 142 principals and delegates from all over India.

The final day of NECDBS 2014 commenced with morning prayer in the Crypt of the Shrine of Don Bosco`s Madonna. Fr Maria Arokiam Kanaga, Regional Councillor for South Asia, presided at the Eucharist.  In his  homily he reflected on the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica and stressed that Salesian schools have to become and remain temples of knowledge, with God at the centre of all.

At the first session Fr Fabio Attard, General Councillor for Youth Ministry, addressed the delegates via video conference from Melbourne. He told the participants that the “Salesian Youth Ministry Frame of Reference” is a process that started from the grassroots of the Congregation. It is the fruit of reflection by the whole Congregation. He noted that in a school the Principal has the fundamental role of Salesian animation and urged the delegates to put students and their well being at the centre, because they deserve the best. He cautioned them against getting trapped in the pursuit of efficiency that relegates people to second place.

At the next session, Fr Maria Charles led the discussion on suggestions for the way forward for the Association of Don Bosco Schools. A lively and passionate sharing of ideas followed.

Addressing the delegates Fr Arokiam said that he appreciated their efforts in the schools. He stated that the General Council had decided to keep stressing the GC 27 theme of Gospel radicality, which means returning to the roots. He raised several fundamental questions on the theme and its key aspects, and presented them to the delegates for their meditation and reflection.

Published 11/11/2014