Bareilly Youth Convention Focuses on Leadership, Mental Wellness and Digital Ethics

Bareilly, September 2, 2026: Young Catholic Students and Young Students Movement (YCS/YSM) of the Diocese of Bareilly organised a two-day youth convention bringing together students, educators, clergy and dignitaries from 15 educational institutions to discuss leadership, personal dignity, mental wellness, digital ethics, social responsibility and advocacy.

The convention offered students an interactive forum to examine social realities, develop critical digital literacy, strengthen relationships and explore ways of contributing to their communities.

Fr. Pius Menezes, Director of YCS/YSM in the diocese, welcomed the participants and presented live saplings as a symbol of ecological responsibility and sustainable growth.

Bishop Ignatius D'Souza of Bareilly, Chairman of the CCBI Youth Commission, delivered the keynote address, focusing on cancer awareness and public health advocacy. He urged young people to challenge the stigma associated with cancer and become informed advocates for early detection, prevention and emotional support within their families, parishes and schools.

Fr. John Barman MSFS, Executive Secretary of the CCBI Youth Commission, introduced participants to the vision, identity and methodology of YCS/YSM through interactive activities and ice-breakers. He highlighted observation of social realities, theological reflection and meaningful community action as the movement's key components.

He also addressed pressures faced by adolescents, including academic stress, peer competition, social media validation and fear of failure. Emphasising peace and personal dignity, he reminded the students of their inherent worth.

A session on healthy friendships was led by Ms. Anukampa Kujur, YCS/YSM National Convener-Elect. She highlighted trust, active listening and conflict resolution while encouraging students to reject bullying and social exclusion.

Digital ethics was another major theme of the convention. Mr. Melson Lobo, YCS/YSM National Treasurer-Elect, spoke about fake news, cyberbullying, echo chambers and irresponsible sharing of online content. He urged students to verify information and critically assess digital content before forwarding it.

Fr. Menezes conducted a session titled Asha Ka Sparsh (Touch of Hope), focusing on empathetic support for people living with cancer. The session encouraged participants to move beyond fear and stigma towards greater community care and solidarity.

Students also explored social issues through creative expression during a Sing Song event and a Nukkad Natak (street play) competition. The performances were evaluated by members of the National Team and Sr. Vidya.

The programme later moved to Suchetna, Kathgodam, where Bishop D'Souza joined the former and current Mayors of Haldwani for sessions on civic leadership, municipal development and youth participation in community building.

Fr. Barman conducted further interactive activities on YCS/YSM methodology, helping students understand how to animate local units in their schools. Fr. Alok addressed the psychological impact of the “Digital Matrix”, encouraging participants to examine screen dependency and use digital platforms constructively to promote online solidarity.

Action songs and leadership debriefs led by the National Team kept participants engaged and strengthened fellowship among students from the participating institutions.

An open-floor feedback session gave students an opportunity to share their reflections on the convention.

The convention equipped participants with practical tools for leadership and community engagement while encouraging greater awareness of social realities, emotional resilience, responsible digital citizenship and commitment to social justice.

By Catholic Connect Reporter