Bangladesh: National YCS hosts 3-day training programme for student leaders

The second National Young Christian Students (YCS) Student Leaders’ Formation Training Course was held from October 16 to 18 at the Holy Cross Pastoral Centre in Bhaddun, about 25 kilometers north of Dhaka. The event was organized by the Episcopal Youth Commission of Bangladesh.

With the theme “Student Leaders Are Called to Win and Guide the Teenagers’ Hearts,” the three-day formation gathered 58 participants from six dioceses across the country.

The program opened with the presentation of the Bible and the lighting of candles, symbolizing the invocation of the Holy Spirit’s love and guidance upon the young leaders.

In his welcome address, Father Bikash James Rebeiro, CSC, National Chaplain of YCS, said, “YCS is first and foremost a place of faith formation, a family of growth, a school of learning, an inspiration for service, and a noble call to missionary responsibility.”

Sr. Lipi Gloria Rozario, OLS, led a session on “Mental Health and Pastoral Accompaniment,” offering practical insights on caring for oneself and others through understanding emotions, feelings, and shared joys and sorrows.

Father Rebeiro also conducted an interactive session on the main theme, emphasizing, “The primary duty of student leaders is to awaken divine faith and God-oriented hope among their fellow students, leading them toward synodal or companion-style leadership.”

Sr. Champa Rozario, OLS, spoke in detail about the identity and mission of the YCS movement, its purpose and relevance today. Father Ujjal Rebeiro facilitated a session on YCS methodology through group activities and practical exercises.

Father Proloy Agustin Cruze, Youth Coordinator of the Archdiocese of Dhaka, discussed YCS cell meetings and activities. He reminded participants, “A student leader is a facilitator, not a manager; therefore, their role is to be ever ready to serve.”

Brother Nirmol Francis Gomes, CSC, shared insights on child protection and the participation of students in environmental awareness and advocacy initiatives.

Mr. Flevian D’Costa, Youth Secretary, delivered a presentation on “Current Challenges of YCS and Ways to Overcome Them.” He highlighted, “The excellence of overcoming challenges lies in open-hearted listening to the Word of God and to one another, maintaining openness, understanding, and unity even amid conflicts.”

Throughout the three-day program, participants engaged in exposure visits, daily prayers, Eucharistic celebrations, and cultural performances that promoted spiritual growth, friendship, confidence, and leadership skills.

Participant Ms. Shiona Rosario shared, “It was my first time joining such a formation training. It increased my self-confidence and leadership skills, inspiring me to guide my YCS cell and journey with my team.”

Another participant, Mr. Nippon Chicham, said, “Through this training, I gained insights into social awareness, mental well-being, interpersonal communication, and how to serve with Christian values and vision as a student leader.”

At the conclusion of the training, certificates were awarded to all participants as a token of appreciation and encouragement. The closing Mass was presided over by Bishop Subrato Boniface Gomes, Chairman of the Episcopal Youth Commission.

In his homily, Bishop Gomes said, “A student leader should live a spiritual life, being Christ-like in words, behavior, prayer, study, and even in thoughts, becoming a servant and a person with an intercultural and faith-filled vision.”

The formation ended with expressions of gratitude to all participants, facilitators, and organizers who contributed to the success of the national event.