By BIS Correspondent for BIS Mumbai

NETRANG, October 30, 2026: With the aim of nurturing confident, responsible and socially committed young leaders, DISHA Don Bosco Kawant organised a two-day training programme on Community Leadership on October 29 and 30, 2026 at Jagriti Animation Centre, Fokdi, Netrang.

A total of 29 participants, including 24 young people (19 boys and five girls) from thirteen villages of Kawant Taluka, along with the DISHA staff, actively participated in the programme. The villages represented included Saidivasan, Mota Devat, Jamli (M), Moti Sankal, Nakhal, Piplada, Godadha, Keldhara, Dungargam, Kanalva, Vagudan, Khantiyavant and Rendha.

The training was organised to develop essential leadership qualities among young people, particularly self-confidence, decision-making, teamwork, a sense of responsibility and social sensitivity. It sought to equip them to become capable community leaders and active citizens who could contribute meaningfully to the development of their villages and society.

The programme began with the reading of the Preamble to the Constitution by Hasmukh Christian, Programme Officer of DISHA. This was followed by a welcome address by Fr Dr Mayank Parmar, Director of DISHA Don Bosco Kawant, who welcomed the participants and highlighted the importance of developing leadership among rural youth.

The sessions were facilitated by Mr Ratilal Jadav, who set the tone for the training with the thought, "A society without leadership cannot progress." Through this statement, he emphasised the importance of community leadership in bringing people together, identifying common concerns and initiating positive changes in society.

Over the two days, the participants explored various dimensions of leadership through interactive and activity-based sessions. The discussions covered questions such as: Who is a leader? What makes a good leader? What qualities and skills should a community leader possess? How can a leader contribute to positive social change? What role does leadership play in the overall development of a community?

The resource person used a variety of participatory methods, including PowerPoint presentations, case studies, skits, games and group activities, to make the sessions engaging and practical. These activities provided opportunities for participants to reflect on different leadership situations, share their experiences, work together and understand the importance of collective responsibility.

Particular emphasis was placed on the understanding that leadership is not merely about holding a position or exercising authority, but about taking initiative, listening to others, working collectively and responding to the needs of the community. The participants were encouraged to recognise their own potential and understand how even small initiatives can bring about meaningful changes in their villages.

The two-day programme provided a valuable platform for young people from different villages to learn, interact and strengthen their leadership capacities. Through this initiative, DISHA Don Bosco Kawant reaffirmed its commitment to empowering rural youth and preparing them to become responsible, active and constructive contributors to community development.