The DBSEM Principals’ Meeting was held at Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, Mendal, on 8 August 2026, bringing together Rev. Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal SDB, Provincial of the Province of Mary Help of Christians, Guwahati, Rev. Fr. Jayaprakash, Province Economer, Rev. Fr. Alex Mathew, Sector Head of DBSEM, and 27 Principals representing various Don Bosco schools of the Province.

The meeting commenced at 9:45 a.m. with a welcome song presented by the students of Don Bosco School, Mendal. A traditional Garo welcome added a distinctive cultural dimension to the gathering, followed by a prayer dance performed by the students. Fr. Ravi Prabhat Ekka then led the gathering in prayer.

Welcoming the participants, Fr. Alex Mathew expressed his gratitude to the Provincial, the Province Economer, the Principals and all those present for their participation and continued commitment to the educational mission of DBSEM.

In his keynote address, Rev. Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal emphasised the importance of serving the poor in the spirit of Don Bosco. He reminded the Principals that the Salesian educational mission must remain firmly rooted in care, compassion and genuine concern for young people, particularly those who are poor and disadvantaged.

The Provincial called upon the Principals to develop the heart of a father, following the example of Don Bosco, and to view education not merely as a profession or administrative responsibility but as a mission. He reminded them that they are stewards of the institutions entrusted to them and, therefore, their leadership must be exercised with humility, accountability and a spirit of service.

A major component of the meeting was the presentation on the Holistic Progress Card (HPC) by Mrs. Lopamudra Dev. She explained the key features and objectives of the HPC, with particular attention to its approach to pedagogy and assessment at the foundational level. She also highlighted practical aspects that schools need to consider for its effective implementation.

The presentation helped the Principals understand the changing perspectives on assessment and the need to move beyond measuring students solely on the basis of academic achievement. The HPC, she explained, seeks to promote a more comprehensive understanding of the child’s development.

Following the tea break, an open session was coordinated by Fr. Nicodim Aind. The session provided an opportunity for the Principals to raise questions, share experiences and discuss issues relating to the administration and functioning of their respective institutions.

Various matters concerning school administration, academics, staff management, students, institutional policies and the challenges emerging from the rapidly changing educational and social environment were discussed. The fraternal exchange enabled the Principals to learn from one another and explore common approaches to the challenges faced by DBSEM schools.

Addressing the gathering, Fr. Jayaprakash, Province Economer, highlighted the importance of keeping pace with the rapidly developing digital world. He stressed that technology can play a significant role in making school administration more efficient, transparent and systematic.

He particularly emphasised the need for a common Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system for the schools of the Province. Such a system, he noted, could help standardise administrative processes, improve the management and accessibility of school data, and simplify the day-to-day administrative responsibilities of Principals.

In his concluding remarks, Rev. Fr. Provincial thanked all the Principals for their active participation and for contributing to the success of the meeting. He encouraged them to work together as one community and committee in advancing the shared educational mission of Don Bosco.

He further stressed the importance of greater transparency in the administration and management of the schools. He called upon the Principals to foster a culture of openness, accountability, collaboration and responsible stewardship in all aspects of school life.

News Courtesy: Fr Nicodim Aind SDB