Don Bosco South Asia

20 September 2026

News reported by: Blasius Tete

Salesian College, Dimapur, came alive on 20 September as nearly 700 young people from 18 youth centres gathered for the Annual Youth Meet 2026, hosted by the Province of Dimapur under the theme “Instruments of Peace.” The day-long programme blended prayer, formation, fellowship, creativity, and cultural expression, offering participants a platform to reflect on their role in building peace within families, communities, and society.

The event opened with registration, singing, and animation, followed by a solemn Holy Mass celebrated by Fr Deli Kapani David, Vice Provincial of the Salesian Province of Dimapur. In his homily, Fr Deli urged the youth to discern God’s will and respond faithfully to their vocation. He emphasized that life’s value lies not in its length but in how meaningfully one uses the time given by God. Encouraging participants to reflect on fundamental questions of human existence, he reminded them of the Christian belief that human beings are created to know, love, and serve God, ultimately to be united with Him forever.

Beyond spiritual reflection, the gathering featured vibrant activities including chance games, cultural presentations, a Reels Making Competition, and a Drawing Competition. Performances ranged from songs, dances, mime, and choir presentations by youth centres, to a special number by the MSMHC Sisters.

In the Reels Making Competition, Lahorijan secured first place, followed by St Francis, Dhobinala, in second and Singrijan in third, while consolation prizes went to Chittronala, Holy Family–Burma Camp, and Langkhailu. In the Drawing Competition, Preeti Urang won first place, with James Kithan of Model Village and Maria Tiru of Chekiye Village taking second and third respectively; consolation prizes were awarded to Lahorijan, Metale Kharia of Singrijan, and John Rohit Kujur and Jowana Kujur of Girjaline.

“Meeting friends from different centres gave me hope that together we can build a stronger, more united community,” reflected James Kithan of Model Village, who won second place in the Drawing Competition.

The programme was supported by 49 Brothers from Salesian College, along with Ursuline novices, MSMHC Sisters, FMA Sisters, and B.Ed Brothers. Media coverage was coordinated by the Dimapur Province Communication Team, with Pulse Travel as media partner and GM Sound providing technical support.

The gathering was enriched by the contributions of Fr Elow Samuel, Rector, who addressed the youth; Fr Dominic Ralte, Youth Director, who announced the winners; Fr MP Thomas and Fr Paul Panü, who distributed the prizes; and Fr Samuel Gangmei, who delivered the vote of thanks.