New Delhi: The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) Office for Education and Culture held its National Council Meeting at the CBCI Centre in New Delhi, gathering educational leaders and stakeholders under the theme “Catholic Education Today: Challenges, Collaboration, and Commitment to Excellence.” The meeting was chaired by Most Rev. Elias Gonsalves, the current head of the CBCI Office for Education and Culture.
In his opening address, Archbishop Gonsalves urged attendees to embrace a spirit of unity and discernment, calling for renewed dedication to the transformative mission of Catholic education in India. Participants introduced themselves and their respective roles, laying the groundwork for open and collaborative dialogue.
Fr. Maria Charles, National Secretary of the CBCI Education and Culture Office, presented an outline of the meeting's agenda, offering a comprehensive report on the office’s recent initiatives, operational goals, and future priorities. His presentation set the tone for the day’s deliberations, underscoring the pressing need to adapt to contemporary challenges while remaining anchored in Gospel values.
The first key discussion titled “Issues of Concern for the Education Ministry” opened up a space for frank conversations on the hurdles faced by Catholic institutions across India. Participants shared on-the-ground realities, enabling mutual learning and an exchange of innovative responses to systemic and localized educational challenges.
A significant proposal emerged during the meeting the formation of a National Core Team under the CBCI Office. Participants offered constructive feedback on the envisioned structure, roles, and selection process of this team, aimed at strengthening national coordination in Catholic education policy and action.
Deliberations continued with focused feedback sessions for major Catholic educational bodies AINACS, Xavier Board, and AICUF. Participants provided thoughtful suggestions on how these networks could enhance their outreach and engagement, particularly in collaboration with the CBCI’s national initiatives.
Recognizing the strength of inter-institutional cooperation, a dedicated segment explored collaboration with other national organizations. Fr. Maria Charles reviewed existing partnerships and invited input on potential alliances that could amplify the reach and impact of Catholic education in India.
The Council also introduced a draft of Guidelines and a Checklist for Catholic Educational Institutions, intended to provide clear benchmarks for academic quality, institutional ethics, and the integration of Catholic values into school culture. The session emphasized the need for consistent standards and transparent governance practices across Catholic institutions.
Looking ahead, planning commenced for the National Consultation on Education, scheduled for 18–20 November 2025. Participants assessed the impact of previous consultations and brainstormed ways to improve its effectiveness and engagement in the upcoming edition.
A moment of global resonance came with the presentation of the Planet Fraternity Project, an initiative endorsed by Pope Francis to promote environmental stewardship and social friendship among students. Fr. Maria Charles urged institutions to support student involvement, linking the project’s mission with the broader goals of Laudato si’ and Catholic social teaching.
The gathering concluded with a feedback session aimed at enhancing the functioning of the National Office itself. Participants offered insights on improving responsiveness, transparency, and field-level support.
The meeting closed with a prayer led by Archbishop Gonsalves, reaffirming the shared commitment to a Catholic educational mission rooted in excellence, compassion, and faithful witness in a changing world.