In a significant announcement, Fr. Rafael communicated that Fr. George Thadathil (INC), Coordinator of IUS (Salesian Institutions of Higher Education), has been appointed as the new South Asia Youth Ministry Coordinator, succeeding Fr. Joebeth Vivo of the Philippines, who will continue to support the East Asia-Oceania Region.

Fr. Rafael emphasized the need for all Salesians to function both as leaders and collaborators, respecting regional diversity and learning from one another. He commended South Asia’s structured coordination and stressed that mission effectiveness should be measured by societal impact.

Looking ahead, the Salesian world awaits the Final Document of General Chapter 29, which will shape a six-year vision focusing on youth and vocational dimensions. Fr. Rafael highlighted upcoming international seminars on the Preventive System organized by the Higher Education Department.

Fr. Patrick Lepcha presented the South Asia Youth Ministry organigram and strategic plans aligned with GC29. Coordinators of each dimension shared updates and collaborative strategies for deeper provincial engagement.

The online meet, rich in sharing and strategic focus, marked a step toward greater interregional synergy, breaking barriers of distance and time in the mission for youth.