by Neil D’Souza

The Don Bosco Research Centre (DBRC), Mumbai, ushered in a fresh chapter on August 13 with the simple yet significant inauguration of its new website. The event was graced by the Provincial, Fr. Savio Silveira, Provincial Designate Fr. Ashley Miranda, Vice Provincial Fr. Robert Pen, Provincial Economer, Gregory D’Almeida and Provincial Councillors Frs. Michael Bansode, Barnabe D’Souza, Blany Pinto, Flovi D’Souza, and Provincial Secretary Fr. Vinod Mascarenhas.

Welcoming the guests, the new Director of DBRC, Fr. Peter Gonsalves, reflected on the deeper purpose of research. “Research is the foundation of informed decision-making, innovation, and social progress,” he said. “It enables us to understand complex realities, develop effective interventions, and evaluate their impact. Without it, policies and programs risk being shaped by assumptions, prejudice, or stereotypes. Honest research, on the other hand, provides concrete evidence that enhances the effectiveness and sustainability of our projects.”

Considering the depth of research already accomplished, Fr. Peter took a moment to acknowledge the remarkable work of his predecessors. Since 1998, Fr. Barnabe D’Souza and his team have been at the forefront of work for children at risk —gathering field data, producing manuals and books for teachers and social workers, and even publishing with international academic houses such as SAGE. He noted, “research becomes a critical tool for protecting the most vulnerable. It helps identify factors such as poverty, abuse, displacement, and conflict, enabling targeted interventions that safeguard rights and promote well-being.”

DBRC’s research has also delved into educational psychology, with significant contributions from Fr. Ajoy and his team since 2015. Their studies, books, and videos have explored how socio-economic and living conditions—especially those of migrant construction workers—impact the health and education of children. “Educational psychology,” Fr. Peter explained, “helps teachers understand how students learn, think, and develop, and fosters inclusive classrooms that respond to diverse needs.”

Another vital area is Salesian History, led by Fr. Valerian. Quoting Martin Luther King Jr.—“We are not makers of history. We are made by history”—Fr. Peter reminded participants that the history section is not a mere archive but a living source of inspiration. “It embodies our gratitude to those who came before us and guides us in creative fidelity to our vision and mission,” he said.

He also thanked Fr. Cleophas Braganza for his dedicated maintenance of the previous website. The new site, integrated under the Province domain sdbinb.in, aims to foster unity and a shared Salesian identity. DBRC’s online home can now be reached easily at Don Bosco Research Centre

Concluding his address, Fr. Peter expressed gratitude to Fr. Savio for entrusting him with the role of Director. “Working in tandem with the team, I hope we can help build a better world for the young today—one that nurtures dignity, fosters a more civilized society, and lays the foundation for lasting peace tomorrow,” he said, before inviting Fr. Savio to officially launch the site.

In his address, Fr. Savio recalled a comment he made during last year’s SPSA assembly. “In India, we are often seen as administrators of schools. At best, we may be called educators—but not educationists, those who truly contribute to the field of education and create new pathways forward,” he observed. He praised DBRC’s renewed focus on “reflection and research” and welcomed the expansion of the research team from just one Salesian researcher in the past to four specialists today. “Our hearty congratulations to Fr. Peter and his team. We wish them well as they bring their respective expertise to bear on the mission,” he said.

With the symbolic “magic button” pressed, the new DBRC website went live—opening a digital gateway to research, reflection, and advocacy in the Salesian spirit. It was a moment that looked back with gratitude, stood firmly in the present, and cast a hopeful gaze towards the future of Catholic education and service to the young, especially those most at risk.