Higher Education

Higher Education in the Salesian Mission

The Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB) are deeply committed to higher education, offering universities, colleges, and research institutions worldwide. Their goal is to provide quality education with strong moral values, shaping students into skilled professionals and responsible citizens.

Aspects of Salesian Higher Education:

1. Universities & Colleges – Salesian higher education institutions offer degrees in engineering, business, humanities, science, IT, theology, and education.
2. Global Reach – Present in over 130 countries, including Don Bosco University (India), Salesian Pontifical University (Italy), and Universidad Politécnica Salesiana (Ecuador).
3. Holistic Development – Focus on academic excellence, leadership, ethics, and social responsibility.
4. Industry & Research – Strong partnerships with industries for internships, innovation, and career development.
5. Student-Centered Approach – Emphasizes values, discipline, and a service-oriented mindset.

Salesian higher education blends academic success with moral and social responsibility, preparing students for a meaningful and impactful life.

Our Team

Fr. Raja Devan SDB
Fr. Januarius Lourdusamy SDB
Fr. Peter Arokiaraj SDB
Fr. Prince Raja SDB
Fr. Charles Joseph SDB
Fr. Michael Arockiasamy SDB
Mrs. Vennila

Reports

On June 8, 2024, a comprehensive meeting was held to address the challenges hindering student admissions at Don Bosco College of Arts and Science in Keela Eral, Tharangambadi College, and Kuthenkuzhi Polytechnic College. The discussions identified several critical issues affecting these institutions’ enrollment numbers.

Identified Challenges:

1. Proximity of Competing Institutions: The presence of numerous colleges in the vicinity offers students a plethora of choices, making it challenging for smaller institutions to attract enrollments. This abundance of options can lead to increased competition and reduced visibility for institutions like Don Bosco College of Arts and Science.
2. Financial Constraints: Many students are deterred by tuition fees, especially when more affordable or free options are available nearby. Institutions with higher fee structures may appear less attractive to prospective students, leading to decreased enrollment.
3. Accessibility Issues: Geographical location and inadequate transportation facilities can hinder students’ ability to commute to these colleges. Institutions that are difficult to reach may experience lower enrollment as students opt for closer alternatives.
4. Staff Instability: Frequent turnover or shortages of qualified faculty can affect the quality of education and reputation of an institution. Prospective students and their families often consider faculty stability and expertise when choosing a college.

Recommendations to Address Challenges:

1. Strengthening Marketing and Outreach:
   • Highlight Unique Selling Points: Emphasize the distinctive features and advantages of each institution, such as specialized programs, cultural values, or community engagement initiatives.
   • Community Engagement: Organize workshops, seminars, and open days to interact directly with prospective students and their families, showcasing the institution’s strengths and addressing concerns.
2. Reevaluating Fee Structures:
   • Scholarship Programs: Introduce merit-based and need-based scholarships to alleviate financial burdens on students.
   • Flexible Payment Plans: Offer installment payment options or financial aid packages to make education more accessible.
3. Improving Accessibility:
   • Transportation Solutions: Collaborate with local transport services to provide dedicated routes for students or consider organizing shuttle services.
   • Digital Learning Options: Develop online or hybrid learning models to accommodate students who face commuting challenges.
4. Enhancing Faculty Stability:
   • Professional Development: Invest in continuous training and development programs to enhance faculty skills and job satisfaction.
   • Competitive Compensation: Review and adjust salary structures and benefits to retain qualified staff.
   • Supportive Work Environment: Foster a collaborative and supportive institutional culture to reduce turnover and attract top talent.

Conclusion:

Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach involving strategic marketing, financial planning, infrastructural improvements, and human resource development. By implementing these recommendations, Don Bosco College of Arts and Science, Tharangambadi College, and Kuthenkuzhi Polytechnic College can enhance their appeal to prospective students, improve enrollment figures, and strengthen their positions within the competitive educational landscape.

Higher Education Commission

The following report outlines the implementation of various programs and events conducted under the Higher Education Commission. These initiatives aimed to enhance knowledge, foster networking, and provide valuable skill development opportunities to participants at different levels.

Programs & Events Conducted

1. Higher Education Commission Sector Meeting

• Venue: DBCAS, Keela Eral
• Level: Province
• Date: 8th June 2024
• Number of Participants: 16
• Impact Created: Knowledge update
• Youth Ministry Dimension: Education to Culture

2. Staff Animation

• Venue: DBCAS, Keela Eral
• Level: Local
• Date: 28th September 2024
• Number of Participants: 30
• Impact Created: Psychological well-being
• Youth Ministry Dimension: Social Experience

3. DBHEI AGM

• Venue: Sonada, Darjeeling, INC
• Level: National
• Date: 15th–17th November 2024
• Number of Participants: 3
• Impact Created: Networking with national-level institutions
• Youth Ministry Dimension: Social Experience

4. Staff Animation

• Venue: DB Polytechnic College, Kazhiappanallur
• Level: Local
• Date: 23rd December 2024
• Number of Participants: 33
• Impact Created: Listening capacity & mission focus
• Youth Ministry Dimension: Education to Culture

5. Staff Animation

• Venue: Pastor Lenssen Polytechnic College, Kuthenkully
• Level: Local
• Date: 12th October 2024
• Number of Participants: 19
• Impact Created: Family bonding
• Youth Ministry Dimension: Education to Culture

6. Career Orientation

• Venue: DBCAS, Keela Eral
• Level: Local
• Date: 3rd March 2025
• Number of Participants: 90
• Impact Created: Career guidance for students
• Youth Ministry Dimension: –

7. Career Orientation

• Venue: DB Polytechnic College, Kazhiappanallur
• Level: Local
• Date: 22nd March 2025
• Number of Participants: 130
• Impact Created: Career awareness and skill-building
• Youth Ministry Dimension: –

8. Career Orientation

• Venue: Pastor Lenssen Polytechnic College, Kuthenkully
• Level: Local
• Date: 7th March 2025
• Number of Participants: 58
• Impact Created: Professional guidance for students
• Youth Ministry Dimension: –

Conclusion

The programs conducted under the Higher Education Commission have significantly contributed to the professional growth of staff and students. The initiatives have enhanced knowledge sharing, strengthened institutional networks, and provided career guidance, fostering a holistic learning environment.

The following is the annual plan for the upcoming year, outlining key programs and meetings scheduled across different venues. These events aim to enhance education, training, and staff development within the province.

Event Schedule

1. Higher Education Sector Meeting

• Date: 21st June 2025
• Venue: Kazhiappanallur
• Level: Province
• Program Details: This meeting will focus on discussions and planning for the higher education sector, addressing key challenges and opportunities.
• Expected Participants: 25

2. Staff Animation – Effective Teaching & Updating with Current Scenario

• Date: 19th July 2025
• Venue: Keela Eral
• Level: Province
• Program Details: A staff development session aimed at enhancing teaching methodologies and keeping educators updated with the latest trends in education.
• Expected Participants: 30

3. Rovers & Rangers Training

• Date: 22nd, 23rd & 24th August 2025
• Venue: Keeranur
• Level: Province
• Program Details: A three-day training session designed for Rovers & Rangers to develop leadership skills, discipline, and service-oriented mindsets.
• Expected Participants: 30

4. Paper Presentation

• Date: 5th January 2026
• Venue: Online
• Level: Province
• Program Details: A platform for participants to present research papers, share insights, and contribute to academic discussions in their respective fields.
• Expected Participants: Open for all interested individuals

This plan is designed to foster learning, collaboration, and professional growth among educators, students, and other stakeholders within the province.