The National Education Conference was successfully held at the CBCB Center in Dhaka from March 19 to 21, 2025.
With a vision to strengthen Catholic education in Bangladesh, the event was organized by the Bangladesh Catholic Education Board (BCEB) in collaboration with Caritas’ Formation for Youth and Teachers Program (FYTP).
The three-day event brought together around 112 education leaders from eight dioceses, including school and college principals, Diocesan Education Commission (DEC) members, and church representatives. They discussed the future of Catholic education in Bangladesh.
The theme was “Pilgrims of Hope: The Role of the Church in Education and Formation.” The event emphasized a holistic approach to learning where faith, knowledge, and service work hand in hand to build strong, compassionate communities.
The conference marked a significant step forward in envisioning a more inclusive, value-driven, and faith-rooted educational system.
From the opening Eucharistic celebrations to the final day’s pledge of unity and purpose, the atmosphere was one of inspiration and commitment.
Strengthening Catholic identity in education, encouraging synodal values of participation and dialogue, prioritizing mental health and emotional well-being, and fostering ethical leadership and democratic citizenship were the key takeaways.
"We are navigating AI, digital tools, and responsible technology use while also promoting environmental stewardship and climate justice," said a participant.
The conference welcomed a host of distinguished speakers and facilitators. Bejoy N. D’Cruze, OMI, Archbishop of Dhaka, and chairman of BCEB, delivered a powerful message of hope and responsibility in his keynote address.
Other notable contributors included Father Simon Patrick Gomes, Mahfuz Anam, editor of the Daily Star; Dr. Benedict Alo D’Rozario, president of Caritas Asia; Dr. Fr. Charles Gordon, CSC, pro-vice chancellor, Notre Dame University Bangladesh; Sr. Shikha L. Gomes, CSC, principal of Holy Cross College; Sr. Kolpona Costa, CSC, headmistress of Holy Cross Girls High School; Dr. Talat Shama and Ms. Ismat Ara Emu, ICDDRB.
The conference was also honored by the presence of Bishop Subrata B. Gomes, Mr. Sebastian Rozario, Executive Director of Caritas Bangladesh, and Mr. Daud Jibon Das, Director of Programs, during the FYTP Need Assessment Workshop and closing session.
Interactive workshops, panel discussions, and cultural performances allowed participants to connect not just as professionals, but as a community united by a shared mission: to nurture young minds and hearts grounded in faith, justice, and compassion.
The conference concluded with a collective resolution to further embed Christian values in schools, champion child safety, embrace innovation responsibly, and build inclusive learning environments where every student is empowered to thrive.
As the echoes of this meaningful gathering continue to resonate, one message remains clear education is more than instruction as it is a journey of hope, formation, and transformation.
Stay tuned for more stories, photos, and testimonials from this landmark event helping shape the future of Catholic education in Bangladesh.
"Let us continue working together, driven by faith and service, to create a brighter future for the next generation. Stay connected for more updates and highlights from this remarkable event," said a participant.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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