Fr. Blasius Tete SDB –
Dimapur, Nagaland: An enlightening evening unfolded at Salesian College Dimapur as Fr. Joe Prabhu, Executive Director of DB YaR Forum, New Delhi, engaged in an interactive session on October 12th. Fr. Joe Prabhu was joined by esteemed Salesian leaders, Fr. Sunny Minj and Fr. Blasius Tete, as they captivated 44 Salesian Philosophy Students from three provinces, IND, ING, INS. The session delved into the critical issues facing young at risk and showcased the enduring commitment of the Salesian community to making a positive impact.
The event was graced by the presence of Fr. VA Thomas, Rector of Salesian College Dimapur, and Fr. Michael, professor and Dean of Studies at the institution, further adding to the evening’s significance.
Fr. Joe Prabhu’s discourse spanned a wide array of topics pertaining to young at risk (YaR), offering the audience a profound understanding of the challenges confronting today’s young population. Among the themes explored were unemployment, child labor, school dropouts, screen addiction, begging, substance abuse, the plight of migrants, youth illiteracy, children in conflict with law, child trafficking, and the challenges faced by orphans and the abandoned.
A notable highlight of the session was Fr. Joe Prabhu’s personal narratives, interwoven with his experiences connected to the YaR mission. His personal anecdotes humanized the issues and underscored the authenticity of the Salesian commitment to these causes.
The session encompassed a thorough examination of the ‘Why, How, and What’ of YaR ministry, highlighting the urgency and methodologies of youth engagement, support, and advocacy. The Salesian Identity and Priority in the context of the YaR mission were illuminated, emphasizing the unwavering dedication of the Salesian community to this noble cause.
Fr. Joe Prabhu further expounded upon the Ideology of DB YaR Forum and the Process of DB YaR Forum, offering valuable insights into the structural foundations of the Forum’s activities. The session also celebrated the key actors who accelerate the YaR programme, illustrating the necessity of collaborative efforts to bring about meaningful change in the lives of vulnerable youth.
The significance of YaR day and YaR campaigns were underscored, serving as vital tools for generating awareness and fostering community involvement. The enduring commitment of Don Bosco to migrants emerged as a central theme of the session.
Child-friendly cities initiatives were explored, emphasizing the importance of creating environments that safeguard and promote the well-being and rights of children. The session reached its emotional zenith with impactful stories that illuminated the transformative work of the Don Bosco YaR Forum, serving as a testament to the positive change and hope it brings to countless young lives.
As the evening concluded, one of the brothers extended a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing gratitude for the enlightening session. The brothers then proceeded for their evening prayer, followed by supper and other college activities.
In the heart of Dimapur, the Salesian Philosophy Students left the event with renewed dedication to addressing the challenges faced by young at risk, inspired by the unwavering commitment of the Salesian community to empower the next generation.