India: National seminar on education and skill development empowers youth at Don Bosco College, Maram

The Department of Social Work at Don Bosco College, Maram, Senapati District, Manipur, northeast India, organized a two-day national seminar on "Education and Skill Development: Pathways for Children and Youth Empowerment" on March 27-28, 2025. 

The seminar commenced with an inaugural session attended by S. Lungbuiba Thangal (MCS, SDO/BDO Purul) and former TAJ President along with Fr. (Dr.) Sebastian K.O.

The event began with a candle-lighting ceremony and an invocation prayer by Fr. Devassy Pallaty, Rector.

In his address, Fr. Sebastian, Principal of Don Bosco College, highlighted the evolving nature of education and emphasized the importance of skill development in line with the National Education Policy (NEP).

He urged the audience to embrace holistic learning that integrates academic knowledge with practical expertise.

Thangal spoke on the challenges in government schools due to inadequate infrastructure and financial constraints. 

He said that private schools play a part in making sure everyone can get a good education and encouraged both students and teachers to get involved in their communities. 

The keynote address, delivered by Dr. Elija Chara, set the stage for in-depth discussions. The seminar featured multiple technical sessions with scholars and experts from Assam University, Mizoram University, Nagaland University, Manipur University, Arunachal University of Studies, Kristu Jayanti College (Bengaluru), and Rajiv Gandhi University (Arunachal Pradesh), among others. 

The seminar aimed to explore the link between education, skill development, and empowerment, focusing on fostering inclusive and equitable learning opportunities, particularly for marginalized communities. 

Discussions addressed challenges faced by children and youth in accessing quality education and skill training, as well as the transformative impact of such initiatives. 

During the concluding session, faculty members and experts emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration in advancing education and skill development initiatives. 

Certificates of participation and presentation were awarded to contributors.

Dr. Evergreat Wanglar, convener and head of the department, expressed gratitude to all participants and reaffirmed her commitment to fostering educational opportunities for children and youth.