Dimapur, May 12 (MExN): “Being and ‘becoming’ require a change of mentality, a change of attitude” said Fr. James Poonthuruthil, Salesian Provincial of Dimapur, at the conclusion of the 9th Provincial Chapter, at Don Bosco Provincial House, Dimapur, here today.
Speaking to the 58 delegates from the region, he emphasized the fact that the event was historic, a moment of renewal, as well as a fraternal gathering to strengthen the sense of belonging and to sort out concerns and new frontiers both at the individual and regional levels. “It was a chapter” he reminded, “where every Salesian was invited to ‘become’ an educator like Don Bosco in the world of today, to re-capture for our times the educative insights of Don Bosco.”
“Integral development of students is an absolute priority,” said Fr. Puthenpurackal Joseph, an observer and expert to the Chapter, while interacting with the participants. He emphasized the fact that genuine education is the first step to national development that leads to competency in different fields. And in today’s society, competence is a non-negotiable must.
Commenting on the educational system of Don Bosco he pointed out that “education” for Don Bosco, meant the “all round development of the students.” “It takes place” he added, “in the family atmosphere, which besides intellectual development, embraces the students’ human relationship development, ability to take leadership role in society, faith formation, critical consumption of Mass Media, correct understanding of love-sex-relationship, sports, games and physical health education, social awareness, sense of responsibility, civic sense, love for the poor and the marginalized, multicultural life, group experience, yoga, meditation, time management, peace building, public speaking, music, singing, drama, drawing and painting and other art forms, etc.”
Expressing satisfaction at the successful conclusion of the five-day study session, Fr. Jose Kuruvachira, the Moderator, said that attitudes of cooperation, openness, willingness to work hard and utilize resources for the marginalized, eagerness to change and reach out to new frontiers were exhibited in the discussions and interactions. It was a moment of empowerment of the person of the Salesian educator.
The Salesian Provincial Chapter which began on 8 May, discussed and deliberated on concerns of the region, which is bound to impact the Don Bosco schools, colleges and institutions in North East India to continue the educational services with greater commitment on behalf of the youth of the region.
Don Bosco, one of the greatest educators of all times, was born in 1815 and died in 1888 in Italy. Today the members of the Don Bosco society are spread out in 130 countries, in all the five continents of the world, contributing greatly to the welfare of youth through the educational institutions.
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