By Fr Daresh Rathwa for BIS Mumbai

A one-and-a-half-day teachers’ seminar was conducted at Don Bosco English and Gujarati Medium Schools, Narukot, centered on “Salesian Pedagogy” and Child Protection through the POCSO Act. The seminar aimed to deepen educators’ understanding of Don Bosco’s educational vision and legal frameworks safeguarding children’s rights.

The resource persons were Sr Urmila Torane, FMA, and Sr Savita Parkhe, FMA, Salesian Sisters of the Mumbai Province. They were warmly welcomed by the School Manager, Fr Elson Barretto, SDB. Fr Daresh Rathwa, SDB, the Principal, introduced the speakers and inaugurated the seminar. He proudly noted Sr Urmila’s deep knowledge of Salesian Pedagogy, studied in Rome, and her ability to share the Salesian spirit in its truest sense.

Day 1: Salesian Pedagogy – Sr. Urmila Torane

The first day featured four sessions exploring Don Bosco’s dream and educational approach. Sr Urmila emphasized the importance of loving, trust-filled relationships, forming a family-like school atmosphere.

She shared Don Bosco’s early life of struggle, how his dream at age nine became his lifelong mission for underprivileged youth, and his founding of the Oratory of St. Francis de Sales.

Teachers engaged in a group activity retelling Don Bosco’s dream in today’s context, reflecting on its relevance to modern educational challenges and preparing an action plan for the 2025–2026 academic year.

Sr. Urmila introduced the Preventive System—Reason, Religion, and Loving-Kindness—as the foundation of Salesian Pedagogy. She cited stories of Micky Magone, Dominic Savio, and Francis Besucco to illustrate its success. She explained how this approach aims to develop not just academically proficient students but morally upright citizens.

In the session on the Role of the Educator, Sr Urmila urged teachers to be mentors and role models. She stressed educating the head (knowledge), heart (relationships), and hands (skills), emphasizing that students must know they are loved. Practical suggestions were given to create disciplined yet friendly environments that foster growth and learning.

Day 2: POCSO Act and Child Protection – Sr. Savita Parkhe

Sr Savita led the second day, focusing on child protection and the POCSO Act. She provided a clear breakdown of the Act’s objectives and legal procedures, using real-life cases to illustrate the teacher’s role in prevention and response.

She emphasized teachers’ responsibilities in identifying signs of abuse and supporting affected students. Legal awareness, accurate record-keeping, and emotional support were highlighted as critical duties.

Sr Savita also promoted creating open, trust-based classrooms and suggested setting up Child Protection Committees in schools. She reminded teachers that education must address emotional and psychological well-being as much as academics.

Conclusion

The seminar concluded with an evaluation session. Teachers shared how they felt spiritually uplifted and better equipped to guide and protect students. Sr. Urmila shared an online feedback link for responses. A vote of thanks was given by Sir Happience Timothi, expressing gratitude to the speakers and organizers for an impactful and transformative event.