The Don Bosco National Forum for the Young at Risk (YaR) on October 7, 2025 inaugurated a two-day national conference at the Don Bosco Institute (DBI), Kharghuli bringing together community leaders, youth workers, and child protection experts to build a robust support system for vulnerable children and youth.

Held under the theme “Engaging with Community and Youth Leaders to Create an Enabling Ecosystem for Young at Risk,” the conference aims to address the multifaceted challenges faced by children on the margins and strategize sustainable solutions.

The inaugural ceremony commenced with a traditional prayer dance by students of DBI, followed by the lighting of the lamp by dignitaries. The gathering paid a heartfelt tribute to the late cultural icon Zubeen Garg.

Dr. Madhulika Jonathan, Chief of the UNICEF Field Office in Guwahati, served as the Chief Guest and delivered the keynote address. In her speech, she emphasized the critical role of collaborative efforts in strengthening child protection mechanisms.

“The well-being of every child is our collective responsibility. It is through strengthened partnerships and community-led initiatives that we can create a safe and nurturing environment for the young at risk,” stated Dr. Jonathan.

The Guest of Honour, Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal SDB, Provincial of the Guwahati Province, extended a warm welcome to the delegates, underscoring the Salesian mission’s enduring commitment to youth in peril. The conference was formally declared open following an introductory note by Fr. Joe Prabu SDB, Executive Director of the DB YaR Forum.

The first day’s proceedings featured focused sessions on critical issues. Dr. Sangita Mahanta led a discussion on “Strengthening Community-based Child Protection and Safety Ecosystems,” while Ms. Enakshi Dutta explored “Mapping and Leveraging Community Assets for Youth Empowerment and Resilience.”

The afternoon saw a poignant exhibition of artwork by the children, themed “Uphold our Hopes, Unfold our Dreams,” symbolizing their aspirations and resilience. This was followed by a panel discussion on the involvement of the Salesian Family in the YaR mission and a thought-provoking talk by Fr. Joseph Manippadeth on Catholic education as a powerful tool for poverty alleviation. The day concluded with the prestigious YaR Award Ceremony, recognizing outstanding contributions to the cause.

The conference will resume on October 8 with a focus on youth leadership. Key sessions will include “Community-led Mobilization on Substance Use” by Dr. Lavinia Lyngdoh and “Youth Voices” led by Fr. Dr. John Parankimalli. Mr. Partha Trathim Mazumdar, Secretary to the Government of Assam, Department of Women and Child Development, will be the Chief Guest for the valedictory session.

The event will close with a Silver Jubilee Celebration of the Snehalaya Centre, marking 25 years of service to child rights in the region.

The conference represents a significant step towards creating a unified, national front to ensure that every vulnerable child in India has the opportunity to unfold their dreams and uphold their hopes for a brighter future.