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Education Is Empowerment: Cherish It and Become Agents of Hope, Says Rector Major at Don Bosco Ashalayam

12 February 2026

Animation, Rector Major, Salesian Family, Young at Risk,

News written by: Fr Maria Arockia

The Delhi Don Bosco Ashalayam community was privileged to welcome the Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco, Fr. Fabio Attard, on 11 February, during a brief yet deeply inspiring visit that radiated fraternity and renewed Salesian zeal.

Accompanied by his Secretary, the Regional Councillor for South Asia, and the Provincial of New Delhi, the Rector Major’s presence strengthened the bonds of the Salesian family and reaffirmed the congregation’s commitment to the holistic formation of vulnerable children.

The celebration commenced in the courtyard with a cordial and culturally rich reception. Children escorted the Rector Major as he was honoured with shawls, bouquets, greeting cards, a tikka, and a traditional turban. The staff and children together created a vibrant moment that reflected Indian hospitality, intertwined with the affectionate spirit characteristic of the Salesian family.

Fr. Maria, Rector of the community, formally welcomed the Rector Major and presented an overview of the mission and multifaceted outreach of Don Bosco Ashalayam. Highlighting its transformative dimension, he affirmed the profound truth of “changing wolves into lambs.” Many of the children entrusted to their care, he noted, arrive emotionally wounded and morally vulnerable, often shaped by adverse peer environments. Yet at their core, they long for acceptance, attention, appreciation, and affection. Echoing John Bosco's preventive vision, he underscored that genuine love remains the foundation of authentic education and lasting transformation.

Cultural performances by the boys of Ashalayam and the girls of Auxilium Snehalaya added colour and vitality to the occasion. Through music and dance, the children expressed gratitude and showcased their talents, embodying the Salesian pedagogy that harmonizes education, culture, and joyful expression.

In his address, the Rector Major drew inspiring lessons from the early life struggles of Don Bosco. Education, he emphasized, is not merely an academic exercise but a transformative force that shapes character and destiny. “Education is empowerment,” he reminded the children. It equips them not only to build their own futures but also to uplift other underprivileged children in the years ahead. Gratitude, self-discipline, and social responsibility, he stressed, must accompany the opportunities they receive at Ashalayam.

Following the programme, the Rector Major visited DB ARK, where Fr. Joe, Director, briefly outlined its mission and achievements. He also proposed establishing a research and development department at the national or congregational level to foster innovation and broaden impact.

Before departing for Holy Child Auxilium, Vasant Vihar, the Rector Major visited the Community Chapel and imparted the Blessing of Mary, Help of Christians, upon the confreres and FMA sisters, concluding a visit marked by encouragement, vision, and renewed commitment to the transformative mission of Don Bosco.