by Sita Iyer and Fr Brian Moras sdb for BIS Mumbai

A two-day Faculty Development Program (FDP) was organized on September 13 & 14 at Don Bosco, Lonavla for the Teaching and Non-Teaching staff of Don Bosco College, Kurla. It aimed at addressing the various challenges faced by degree college teachers and discussing practical solutions. The program had participation of 26 teaching & non-teaching faculty of Don Bosco College across courses like Management Studies (BMS), Account and Finance (BAF), Mass Media (BAMMC) and Hospitality Studies (HS). 

The program’s primary goal was to help teachers better navigate the evolving educational landscape. The FDP aimed to address issues, offer insights and strategies to tackle them in the Spirit of Don Bosco.

In the first session, Father Brian Moras, took up the Strenna 2024, The Dream that makes us Dream.  He interestingly related the Strenna and Salesian Pedagogy, focussing on the three pillars of the Preventive System – Rapport, Reason and Religion.  This session provided good learnings for the staff.

In the second session post-lunch, Rector Father Antony Pinto, covered various challenges faced by educators today by inviting different members of the faculty to elaborate on the various challenges faced. Six different challenges were covered, namely: Developing critical capacity and mature thinking in students; Exercising freedom responsibly and thoughtfully; Promoting responsible and informed media literacy; Educating about love and sexuality; Purpose of Education and  Educating about climate change and environmental care. It was a very interactive session, where discussions were encouraged.

The participants took time touring the school premises, visiting Maria Ashiana- the Drug rehabilitation Centre  managed by Father Xavier, and went for a trek in the evening  to Tungarli Dam.

The second day of the FDP focused on finding practical solutions to the problems identified. 

Fr Lester Fernandes conducted the first two sessions in the morning.  The first session examined the Importance of Emotional Intelligence as it contributes to personal and professional success by improving relationships, enhancing leadership skills, and fostering personal well-being. The second session was a practical session which focussed on Role of Perspectives and Judgements in our daily lives. The sessions were interactive and all faculties contributed constructively to the discussions.

The two-day Faculty Development Program in Lonavla was a productive and insightful event that allowed teachers to voice their concerns and find actionable solutions to improve their teaching practices. By focusing on the integration of digital tools, enhancing student engagement, and addressing teacher well-being, the FDP provided educators with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in a rapidly changing educational environment.