NEIRBC Commission for Education Welcomes New Leadership

Guwahati, June 25, 2025 – The Northeast Bishops Council’s Commission for Education has appointed a new leadership team, with Fr. Dr. Paul Pudussery, a Holy Cross priest, taking the helm. This transition marks the third leadership handover since the commission’s inception and follows nearly a decade of service by the outgoing Secretary, Fr. Dr. Amal Raj.

The solemn occasion was graced by the NEIRBC President, Archbishop John Moolachira of Guwahati, and the Chairman of the Northeast Education Commission, Bishop Paul Mattekat of Diphu. For the first time in nearly twenty years, the commission has appointed a Secretary along with four additional members—demonstrating a renewed commitment to a broader leadership structure.

According to a release issued by NEIRBC last month, Fr. Dr. Paul Pudussery has been appointed Secretary. Joining him as commission members are Christian Brother Rev. Bro. Simon Coelhi from St. Edmund’s College, Rev. Sr. Molly Thomas SMMI, Fr. Alex Kalyathinal from the Archdiocese of Guwahati, and Fr. Thomas Perunilam of the Diocese of Tura.

During the handover ceremony, Fr. Dr. Amal Raj transferred 20 documents to his successor, including an inventory list and financial statements. Archbishop John commended Fr. Amal’s contributions and extended his best wishes to the new office bearers.

Reflecting on the commission’s future, Fr. Dr. Amal expressed the hope that all 15 diocesan secretaries and religious congregations would be actively involved. Bishop Paul emphasised the need to invite delegates from various religious provinces to participate in the commission’s initiatives.

Notably, the Diocese of Kohima ranks highest in contributions among regional dioceses, followed by Tezpur and Diphu—the latter being Bishop Paul’s own diocese. Other dioceses, including archdioceses, are encouraged to contribute in line with the collection policy of ₹5 per student, which has been in place for over a decade.

Following the leadership handover, the new office bearers met with Bishop Paul and Archbishop John to chart the path forward. Fr. Dr. Paul and his team expressed optimism about advancing the commission’s goals in the years ahead. Also present at the ceremony were Fr. Anil, Director of the Northeast Social Forum, and Fr. Mangattuthazhe, Secretary for Ecumenism.

By Fr. Kampan Chinnam, NESCOM