Bengaluru: St Claret College, Autonomous, Bengaluru, in collaboration with the Xavier Board of Higher Education in India organized a two-day National Youth Convention on March 8 and 9, 2025. The event, centred on the theme Beyond Boundaries: Breaking Limits and Achieving Dreams, witnessed the enthusiastic participation of 185 students and faculty members from 34 Xavier Board colleges across India. It aimed at empowering youth to push beyond their limits and achieve their dreams through insightful discussions, knowledge-sharing, and interactive activities.

The convention commenced with an inspiring inaugural ceremony graced by the presence of Most Rev. Joseph Soosainathan, Auxiliary Bishop of Archdiocese of Bangalore. In his inaugural address, he emphasized the importance of perseverance, ethical leadership, and continuous learning as crucial factors in the journey toward success. The Guest of Honour, Shri Johnson, KAS, Deputy Commissioner of Labour, Government of Karnataka, shared valuable insights on youth empowerment and the significance of skill-building in today’s competitive world.

A significant highlight of the convention was the engagement of several eminent speakers who enriched the participants with their knowledge and expertise. Mr. Thomas John Rose, a renowned motivational speaker and leadership trainer, delivered an impactful session on goal-setting and breaking self-imposed limitations. Ms. Priyanka Mary Francis, IAS, shared her experiences and provided valuable guidance on the role of youth in shaping the nation and overcoming challenges in governance. The other resource persons included Dr. Anil Pinto, Registrar of CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Mr. Rajiv Noronha, Former Global Lead HR of TCS, Dr. Ashwini N. V., Founder-Director of MUKTHA Foundation, Bangalore and Dr. Arijit Roy, Head of the PG Department of Management at St. Claret College. Throughout the two-day event, Fr. Dr. Joji Reddy, SJ, President of the Xavier Board of Higher Education in India, was present, adding immense value to the convention by fostering a spirit of intellectual and personal growth among the attendees.

The convention provided a platform for participants to express their views and engage in meaningful conversations through panel discussions, interactive sessions, and idea-sharing forums. Experts and students deliberated on strategies for achieving personal and professional excellence beyond conventional limits, exchanging ideas on leadership, sustainability, and innovation. The interactive sessions encouraged participants to collaborate and propose innovative solutions for a sustainable and inclusive world. In addition to the intellectually stimulating sessions, the event also showcased the vibrant cultural diversity and talents of the participants. The host institution, St. Claret College, organized a talent hunt, along with music and dance performances, which entertained and captivated the audience.

The event culminated in a grand valedictory function, presided over by Dr. Fr. Sabu George, CMF, Provincial Superior of the Claretian Missionaries, Province of Bangalore. In his concluding remarks, he encouraged participants to carry forward the learnings from the convention and apply them in their academic and professional journeys.  The Two-Day National Youth Convention was a resounding success, fostering intellectual discourse, cultural exchange, and leadership development among the youth.