All Karnataka Don Bosco School Leaders Meet – IGNITE 2026

Bidar, August 2026: Don Bosco School, Bidar, hosted the All Karnataka Don Bosco School Leaders Meet – IGNITE 2026, bringing together principals, teachers and student leaders from Don Bosco schools across Karnataka. The programme was organised under the inspiring theme “IGNITE 2026 – Inspire, Lead, Transform”, with the aim of nurturing leadership qualities, confidence, responsibility and a spirit of service among young people.
Inauguration Ceremony
The inauguration ceremony was graced by Shri Sagar E. Kandre, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Bidar, as the Chief Guest. He formally inaugurated the programme and delivered the keynote address. Shri Mahesh, Police Inspector, Rural Police Station, Bidar, was also present.
The programme was presided over by Rev. Fr. Steven Lawrence, Rector and Manager, Don Bosco, Bidar. Rev. Fr. Mathew, Administrator, and Rev. Fr. Hrudaya Raj were also present.
Rev. Fr. Praveen K. J., Principal, Don Bosco School, Bidar, introduced the theme “IGNITE – Inspire, Lead, Transform” and highlighted the importance of leadership formation in preparing young people to become responsible leaders and agents of positive change in society.
“Student Leaders Are the Future of Our Country” – Sagar E. Kandre
In his inaugural and keynote address, Shri Sagar E. Kandre, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Bidar, inspired the student leaders by reminding them that student leaders are the future leaders of our country.
He emphasised the vital role of education in shaping the future of young people and encouraged the students to combine education with discipline, responsibility, good values and a spirit of service.
The MP also highlighted the importance of maintaining good physical and mental health. He encouraged the students to take care of their health, follow a healthy and balanced diet, and develop good habits as part of a responsible and successful lifestyle.
He urged the young leaders to use their knowledge, talents and abilities not merely for personal success but for the betterment of society and the nation.
Don Bosco Bidar and the Leaders Meet
In his introductory address, Rev. Fr. Steven Lawrence, Rector and Manager, warmly welcomed the dignitaries and participants from different Don Bosco institutions across Karnataka. He spoke about the purpose and importance of the All Karnataka Don Bosco School Leaders Meet and introduced the participants to the Don Bosco educational mission and the work of Don Bosco Bidar.
He highlighted the commitment of Don Bosco to value-based education, youth empowerment, discipline, character formation and the holistic development of young people, particularly those who come from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The programme was compered by Ms. Priya Gazmer, Makanyo, Zhaiveni and Elizabeth, who conducted the proceedings with confidence and coordination.
Inspiring Sessions on Leadership and Team Building
A major highlight of the Leaders Meet was the series of interactive and engaging sessions organised for the student leaders.
Dr. George P. S., the resource person for the morning session, conducted a thought-provoking and inspiring session on leadership qualities. Through his presentation and interaction with the students, he focused on the essential qualities and attitudes required to become effective and responsible leaders. The session was highly appreciated by both the student participants and the organisers, who found it meaningful, relevant and inspiring.
The afternoon session was led by Rev. Fr. Reji, who served as the resource person for an interactive and lively leadership session. The session involved songs, games, party songs and various engaging activities that encouraged active participation and team spirit among the students.
The afternoon session turned out to be one of the liveliest and most energetic sessions of the Leaders Meet, with the student leaders enthusiastically participating throughout. The combination of fun, interaction, music and team-building activities created an atmosphere of joy and strengthened friendship and collaboration among the participants.
Participation from Don Bosco Schools Across Karnataka
The Leaders Meet witnessed enthusiastic participation from Don Bosco schools from Chitradurga, Hospet, Tumakuru, Bengaluru, Yadgir, Devadurga and Kalaburagi, along with the host institution, Don Bosco School, Bidar.
Around 10 principals, 30 teachers and 300 student leaders participated in the programme.
The gathering provided a valuable platform for student leaders to interact, share experiences, exchange ideas and develop essential leadership skills. The programme encouraged the participants to understand leadership not merely as a position or responsibility, but as the ability to inspire others, lead with purpose and bring about positive transformation.
The meet also strengthened the Salesian commitment to educating, guiding and empowering young people and preparing them to become responsible citizens and leaders of tomorrow.
Valedictory Ceremony
The programme concluded with a valedictory ceremony in the presence of Shri Seemappa, Chairperson, Child Welfare Committee (CWC), as the Chief Guest. Rev. Fr. Steven Lawrence, Rector and Manager, Rev. Fr. Mathew, Administrator, and Mrs. Renuka, School Coordinator, were also present.
Mrs. Jhancy, Academic Coordinator, proposed the vote of thanks and expressed sincere gratitude to the dignitaries, Salesian Fathers, principals, teachers, student leaders, resource persons, comperes and the entire organising team for their valuable contribution to the success of the programme.
With the powerful message “Inspire, Lead, Transform,” IGNITE 2026 concluded successfully, leaving the young participants with renewed enthusiasm, confidence, discipline, a greater awareness of healthy living and a strong commitment to serve society.
The programme effectively conveyed the message that today’s students are not merely the leaders of tomorrow; they are already capable of inspiring others, taking responsibility and contributing to positive change in society today.