The assembly began with the Eucharistic celebration presided over by Fr Biju Michael. Drawing on the liturgy of the day, he reflected on God’s compassion and the Christian call to embody it in leadership and service. In his homily and introductory address, he emphasised the importance of discernment and prioritisation, noting that authentic leadership involves proactively identifying what truly matters for personal and collective happiness.

Referring to the life and charism of Don Bosco, Fr Biju underlined the Preventive System as a model of leadership rooted in presence and foresight. Education, he said, is not merely a response to crises but a sustained commitment to being with the young to prevent difficulties before they arise.

In his animation talk, Fr Rafael Bejarano presented the Youth Ministry Frame of Reference, advocating an integral, interconnected, inclusive, and participatory approach to youth ministry. He cautioned against factors that weaken communion in mission, identifying tendencies such as genericism, personalism, disintegration, activism, and improvisation as “cracks” that need to be consciously addressed within Salesian ministry.

The participants were formally welcomed by Fr Sebastian Kuricheal, Provincial of the Salesian Province of Guwahati, who extended greetings in a traditional Northeastern style. The day also featured presentations of annual reports by various Network Heads, offering insights into ongoing initiatives across the region.

Adding a cultural dimension to the gathering, students of Don Bosco Institute, Guwahati, presented a vibrant cultural programme that captivated the assembly.

The second day of the assembly will focus on discussions of the Region's Six-Year Plan, to be animated by Fr Biju Michael, who will set strategic directions for the Salesian mission in South Asia.