MINISTRIES

SILIGURI: Salesian College Siliguri has officially welcomed its inaugural batch for the four-year Integrated Teacher Education Programme, joining the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur as one of the only two primary institutions in West Bengal authorized to offer this dual-degree course. Aligned with the National Education Policy 2020, the flagship program streamlines traditional pathways by fusing undergraduate studies with a Bachelor of Education into a single curriculum. Admissions for these limited seats are regulated through the National Common Entrance Test administered by the National Testing Agency, alongside counseling pathways via the Regional Institute of Education in Bhubaneswar.

The newly commenced program at the Siliguri campus features a B.A. B.Ed. curriculum across key humanities and social science disciplines, designed to elevate pedagogical standards for secondary education. IIT Kharagpur complements the state's dual-degree framework by offering a science-focused B.Sc. B.Ed. structure, combining majors in physics, chemistry, or mathematics with professional teacher training. Together, these two centers represent the entirety of the state's approved foundational infrastructure for the multidisciplinary teacher preparation model.

The rollout of these cohorts marks a crucial milestone in revamping India's educational landscape to produce highly competent educators. Academic leaders emphasize that blending intensive subject expertise with practical classroom training from the undergraduate level bridges a long-standing gap in professional formation. For Salesian College Autonomous, a Don Bosco institution, this new initiative builds upon a century-long legacy of academic service. The institution has been a cornerstone of learning in West Bengal since 1926, consistently catering to the region's needs across school, higher, and technical education.

SILIGURI: Salesian College Siliguri launched its first Integrated Teacher Education Programme on August 10, welcoming an initial batch of 18 students. The launch marks a significant educational milestone for the Salesian College Autonomous, which joins IIT Kharagpur, as the only two institutions in West Bengal approved to offer the four year dual degree course. Aligned with the National Education Policy 2020, the new program awards both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education degrees, establishing a new standard for teacher preparation in the region.

The five day induction program opened with a prayer service led by Rector Fr. Tomy Augustine in the college chapel. Addressing the gathering, Principal Fr. Babu Joseph emphasized that the initiative goes beyond standard professional training to shape educators who will advance Don Bosco's holistic vision of learning. Chief Guest Nupur Das, Principal Secretary of Undergraduate Studies at the University of North Bengal, reinforced this message. Drawing on her own background in education, she noted that the curriculum is a timely response to modern classroom needs, designed to equip future teachers with a strong foundation of professional skill and social responsibility.

Dr. Jagadish Samanta, Head of the new department, detailed how the curriculum blends rigorous academics with practical classroom training to nurture adaptable practitioners. Throughout the induction week, students are exploring core philosophies of education, mental health awareness, and professional ethics. The program also integrates experiential learning through yoga, art sessions, and career readiness activities to ensure the new cohort is fully prepared to meet the evolving demands of modern schools and communities.
Fr. CM Paul, SDB

Sonada, 16 June 2026 -The Academic Year 2026–2027 of the Bachelor of Philosophy (B.Ph.) programme at Salesian College, Sonada, was formally inaugurated on 15 June 2026 in the presence of Rt. Rev. Edward Baretto, D.D., Co-adjutor Bishop of the Darjeeling–Sikkim Diocese. 

The day's programme began at 10:00 a.m. with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Bishop Edward Baretto. The Eucharistic celebration marked a meaningful beginning to the academic year, invoking God's blessings upon the students, faculty, and the entire philosophy community. The Mass concluded at 11:00 a.m, followed by a tea break.

The inaugural function commenced at 11:30 a.m.  Br. Mebandajied Thangkhiew, the Master of Ceremonies, welcomed the gathering and introduced the programme. A hymn to the Holy Spirit, sung by the student brothers set a prayerful tone for the occasion. This was followed by the felicitation of the dignitaries and the ceremonial lighting of the lamp.

Delivering the welcome address, Fr. Johny Nedungatt SDB, the Rector,  expressed his gratitude to Bishop  Baretto for accepting the invitation and highlighted the importance of intellectual formation and philosophical inquiry in today's world. Fr. Dr. C. J. Mathew then presented the annual report of the Department of Philosophy, outlining the department's activities and achievements during the previous academic year.

A choir performance by the student brothers added colour to the programme before the keynote lecture delivered by Br. Abhishek Rai, SDB, on ‘Paulo Freire's Philosophy of Education’. The presentation introduced Freire's life and educational vision, emphasizing the development of freedom, creativity, responsibility, critical awareness, and conscious participation. The lecture also examined Freire's critique of the "Banking Model of Education" and his advocacy of a problem-posing approach that encourages dialogue and critical thinking. Some of the strengths and limitations of his educational philosophy were also discussed.

In his presidential address, Bishop  Baretto underlined the importance of philosophy as the foundation of theological studies and priestly formation. He stressed the need for logical thinking and critical analysis in distinguishing truth from error and encouraged students to pursue holistic formation encompassing the human, spiritual, and intellectual dimensions of life.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Br. Asit Minz, a fourth-year student, who expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the event. The gathering then proceeded for a fellowship lunch, bringing the inaugural celebration to a joyful close.

The inauguration marked a promising beginning to the new academic year, inspiring students to pursue wisdom, truth, and academic excellence with renewed dedication.

Br. Lamkupar Nonglang SDB

Sonada, 06 June 2026 - The Department of Philosophy, in collaboration with IQAC (Internal Quality Assurance Cell), Salesian College Sonada, organized a seminar titled “Addiction and its Dynamics: Path of Awareness to Sobriety”  on the 4th and 5th of June, 2026. The seminar provided the students with an opportunity to learn about addiction, its causes, and effects on individuals and society.

The resource person for the seminar was Fr. Peter Bhujel S.J. who is currently working with the Social Action Ministry for Addicts and Alcoholics, Woodcot, Kurseong. Drawing from his years of practical experience, Fr. Bhujel shared valuable insights and engaged the participants in meaningful discussions throughout the programme.

The first day began with a session about alcoholism and the importance of discussing addiction openly. Using examples from his personal experience in the field, he explained how people often become involved in addictive habits and the many factors that contribute to such situations. He also highlighted the harmful effects of alcohol addiction and encouraged students to be more aware of its personal and social and consequences. Students were encouraged to ask questions, and many actively participated in the interactive session. Fr. Bhujel responded to the questions with clarity and patience, helping the participants gain a better understanding of the issues being discussed.

On the second day Fr. Bhujel discussed alcohol as one among several addictive substances and stimulants. He introduced different categories of substances such as ethanol, nicotine, and narcotics. He also set aside time to discuss behavioural and psychological addictions and their growing presence in everyday life.  In the group discussion that followed some of the participants shared their observations and reflected on certain addictive patterns that they felt were present in their own lifestyle. Fr. Bhujel appreciated the openness and honesty shown by the students during this sharing session and encouraged them to continue reflecting on these issues.

The programme came to an end on a positive note, leaving the participants with a deeper awareness of addiction and the importance of making informed and responsible choices. Overall, the seminar was both informative and enriching. It offered students a valuable opportunity to learn from the practical life experiences of the resource person, reflect on contemporary forms of addiction, and engage in open discussion on an important social issue.

Br. Lamkupar Nonglang SDB

Sonada, 28 March 2026: Saesian College (autonomous) organized an international Tea Conference at Sonada where Tea Garden Managers, Garden owners, Hoteliers, Financial institution heads, Health workers, NGO workers, academicians, social workers and a whole lot of others associated with Darjeeling Tea met on a single platform on 27-28 March, 2026 to share, discuss,  deliberate and charter innovative paths for a Tea industry struggling to survive.

The conference theme ‘Darjeeling Tea: Leaf, life and legacy’ took a multi-disciplinary approach which examined production of Tea not just as a business but as a living and breathing cultural landscape that continue to shape lives of the people of the hills in untold ways.  The conference intended to approach the Tea community  which includes workers, women, youth and knowledge-keepers as the custodians of the region’s heritage and as the most essential contributors to its future.  

Eighty participants excluding the college students were brought together by the conference, most of whom presented papers or lectures on various aspects the world renowned beverage, Darjeeling Tea.  In his opening address Fr. (Dr.) Babu Joseph, the principal of the college said, “As a college deeply committed to academic excellence and social relevance, we believe it is our duty to provide a platform where stakeholders – planters, traders, policy managers academics and students – can come together to discuss these challenges and chart a way forward.”

The variety of papers and lectures, nearly 45 of them, presented by scholars like Dr. Eklavya Sharma, a Padma Shree Awardee, Strategic Advisor and Senior Fellow, ATREE and Dr. Kathrin Gassert, Director Tea Campaign Germany helped the participants to delve into many an unchartered area connected with Tea plantation and the industry. In his presidential address Mr. Binod Mohan, Chairman of Tea Promoters India, said about Darjeeling Tea, “One single concern is erosion of quality.”  He further stated that this conference could be a turning point to create conditions that make the workers stay back and not to migrate. 

Referring to the academic situation in China where every college has a stream on Tea for students to study, Mr. Shiv Kumar Saria, Managing Director Soongachi Tea Industry invited Salesian college to initiate a course on Tea. 

Speaking about the impact the conference on Tea plantation and the industry, Dr. Eklavya Sharma said, “Salesian college has provided a platform where various persons like researchers, planters, managers, and social workers could come together and share their experience. You also organized a Darjeeling Tea ceremony which many countries have but does not have in Darjeeling.” 

Mr. Jeewan Prakash Gurng, Whole time Director Tea promoters India speaking on the sidelines of the conference said, “I think this seminar literally is the first of its kind which happened in this part of the world, involving all aspects of Tea growing. It is an eye opener for all stake holders in Tea, ... and it should have a good impact on all aspects of Tea. Speaking about the uniqueness of the seminar Mr. Gurung said, “We had seminars before but they were restricted to technical and administrative aspects but this encompasses society, and the psychological aspects of tea.”

“I think it is a perfect starting because I fear Darjeeling Tea industry is in an infectious dire state and it  needs a multi stake holder approach”, shared Ms. Kathrine Gassert.  She further said that the conference provided the opportunity to look at Tea industry from various angles, including literature. 

The chief organizer of the conference was Fr. Tomy Augustine, Rector of Salesian College, Siliguri campus.  Apart from the various faculty members assisting him to get the conference move ahead, there were Mr. Rajah Banerjee, Rimpocha Tea Chairman T’Classic Darjeeling Pvt Ltd and Mr. Jeewan Prakash Gurung who collaborated in umpteen ways, including raising fund for the conference. 

Speaking about the contribution that Salesians have made to the Tea community Br. (Dr.) Jose Puthenpurackel SDB, the vice-principal of Sonada campus in his paper referred to the community engagement programmes of the college.  He said, “Over the decades, Salesian College has supported construction of schools, homes, and roads; implemented food-for-work and disaster relief initiatives and conducted literacy, skill development, and human development programmes.  Health initiatives addressing child nutrition, women’s empowerment, and child rights awareness have further strengthened community well-being”

Presenting a paper on the Jesuit contribution, Fr. (Dr.) K.L. George SJ referred how they were instrumental through their educational institutions to lay foundation for a broader, more inclusive, and equitable development in the lives of people regardless of religious, cultural, or linguistic difference. 

The conference dedicated a paper to Rev. Fr. Luigi Jellci SDB and the impact he had on the Tea Garden workers of Balasun Valley and Mirik. “The advent of Fr. Luigi Jellici brought a phenomenal impact that initiated significant transformation in the lives of the people in the neighbourhood of Sonada, Darjeeling”, said Sushna Subha, Asst. prof. Dept. of history, Kurseong College. 

As the curtain came down on the two-day conference, Fr. Tomy Augustine thanked the Salesian community of Sonada for hosting the conference and extending whole hearted assistance to the organizers and to the participants. 

The brothers under the leadership of Frs. Anjulus Minj, the bursar and Fr. Clement Lakra, the Dean of studies ensured that the guest were extended a very warm welcome., food and accommodation. 

Fr. Johny Nedungatt SDB

Sonada, 27 March: Salesian College (Autonomous), Sonada, in collaboration with Tea Promoters India and Rimpocha Tea, launched a two-day international conference on “Darjeeling Tea: Leaf, Life, and Legacy – A Multidisciplinary Exploration of Place, People and Possibility.”
The inaugural session on 27 March featured addresses by Mr. Binod Mohan, President of Tea Promoters India, Chief Guest Mr. Chandra Shekhar Ghosh, Founding Chairman of Bandhan Group, and keynote speaker Mr. Rajah Banerjee of Rimpocha Tea and Chairman of T’Classic Darjeeling.
Over the two days, 34 academic papers are being presented across eight technical sessions. Day one, held in hybrid mode, brought together national and international scholars, industry leaders, and community representatives to deliberate on the cultural, economic, and ecological significance of Darjeeling tea. Afternoon sessions explored themes of environment and sustainability, tea communities, literature, and gender and labour, with 18 papers delivered.
Day two will feature plenary discussions and four parallel sessions covering media and innovation, alternative livelihoods, life in tea gardens, and multidisciplinary perspectives, adding 16 more papers to the tally.
Alongside the academic program, a photographic exhibition on Darjeeling tea, a tea-tasting stall, and publications on tea and the Eastern Himalayas are on display.
Established in 1938 in Gorabari village near Sonada, Salesian College has been a cornerstone of higher education in the Darjeeling hills for nearly nine decades. Having attained autonomous status in 2023, the college marks a historic milestone by hosting its first international tea conference. Since 1963, its students have continued Sunday outreach programs in 24 far-flung tea gardens.
By convening diverse voices to deliberate on the legacy and future of Darjeeling tea, Salesian College reaffirms its role as custodian of regional heritage and catalyst for innovation and sustainability in the tea industry.