(ANS – Rome) – The 25th Meeting of the Board of Salesian Institutions of Higher Education (IUS) brought together seven board members representing 21 countries, overseeing 97 institutions, with a combined strength of over 8,000 faculty members and 160,000 students. Held under the leadership of the Rector Major of the Salesians, Fr Fabio Attard, and the Youth Ministry Councillor, the board deliberated on a comprehensive six-year plan to guide Salesian higher education globally.
The plan will commence with the IX General Assembly, scheduled to begin on November 3, 2026. This four-day event will focus on reinforcing the Salesian and Catholic identity, reviewing the Policies amended in 2022, and shaping a Common Action Plan leading up to the X General Assembly in 2030.
Key Developments and Decisions
The meeting featured regional reports presented by Javines Ronilo (East Asia Oceania), Joby Joseph (South Asia), Alessio Rocchi and Michal Vojtas (Europe), and Mario Olmos alongside José Marinoni (America). Their contributions formed the foundation for several major decisions.
The board approved a Taizé-IUS collaboration proposal, set to begin in 2026. This collaboration will focus on providing professional development opportunities, particularly benefiting individuals from the African and East Asia Oceania (EAO) regions. Additionally, regional participation in the Jubilee of Education was finalized, with representation from each area: 3 participants from East Asia Oceania, 25 from South Asia, 5 from Europe, 2 from UPS (Università Pontificia Salesiana), 5 from Latin America, and 5 from Africa.
An in-depth review of the 2022–26 Action Plan was also conducted. The board evaluated its implementation across regions, ensuring alignment with the IUS mission and preparing to report findings during the IX General Assembly.
Inspirational Address by Fr Fabio Attard
The meeting began with reflections from Fr Fabio Attard, who presented a compelling vision for the future of IUS. He emphasized the need for the IUS to be a fosterer of Salesian identity, a prophetic leader in professional settings, and a charismatic presence in the Church, guiding and accompanying youth in their journeys. His address set the tone for the discernment and decision-making that followed.
Regional Insights and Concerns
The regional reports provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by Salesian higher education institutions worldwide. In Europe, a proposal was made to establish a Coordination Centre to facilitate European Degree Programs and foster better collaboration among IUS Centres within the continent. In America, sustainability emerged as a pressing concern, with a particular emphasis on maintaining a focus on serving underprivileged youth despite financial and structural challenges.
Globally, the board highlighted the need for greater attention from regional and provincial leadership to address the current status and future potential of the IUS. This includes prioritizing formation, research, and resource development, ensuring that each region can fully leverage the opportunities provided by the IUS network.
A Vision for the Future
Reflecting on the outcomes of the board meeting, Fr George Thadathil, the IUS International Coordinator, stated: “This meeting was a vital step in aligning our global institutions with the vision of Don Bosco. The approval of initiatives like the Taizé collaboration and the Jubilee of Education demonstrates our commitment to fostering professional excellence and Salesian identity across regions. The discussions highlighted the importance of sustainability, collaboration, and leadership. With the IX General Assembly on the horizon, IUS is poised to continue being a transformative force for youth and the Church.”
The IUS Board Meeting underscored the critical role of Salesian higher education in shaping the future. By fostering collaboration, focusing on youth, and addressing sustainability challenges, the IUS continues to embody Don Bosco’s vision in the modern world. With the IX General Assembly on the horizon, the board’s decisions and reflections serve as a guiding light for the next phase of the Salesian mission in higher education.
Source: ANS – “Agenzia iNfo Salesiana”