AINACS Convention to Focus on Positive Classrooms as Foundations for Peacebuilding

BENGALURU, October 20, 2026: Classrooms can shape how children understand differences, respect others and take responsibility for their actions. Placing this formative role of education at the centre of its national deliberations, the All India Association of Catholic Schools (AINACS) will hold its 57th National Convention and General Body Meeting in Bengaluru from October 21 to 24 at Christ University Central Campus.

The convention, themed “Nurturing Responsible Citizens: Building Justice, Peace and Integrity through Positive Classrooms,” will focus on creating learning environments where children can practise tolerance, respect and peaceful coexistence from an early age.

Fr. Shinoj Kizhakkemuriyil TOR, president of AINACS, emphasised the importance of nurturing these values during childhood.

“Nurturing tolerance, peace and respect must begin when children are young. Positive classrooms can help them develop good habits, appreciate differences and learn to live together with dignity. If we want responsible citizens and a peaceful society tomorrow, we must begin by shaping the attitudes and values of children today,” he said.

Over four days, Catholic education leaders, school principals and invited resource persons will examine approaches to developing positive learning environments and strengthening character formation and citizenship education.

A panel discussion scheduled for October 22 will focus on positive classrooms. Subsequent sessions will explore the themes “Positive Classrooms: Be Peaceful – Be Purposeful” and “Positive Learning Environment.”

The resource persons include Fr. Ditto Sebastian OFM Cap, director of the Assisi Institute of Peace Studies, and Sr. Veena D’Souza BS, principal of Sacred Heart Convent School, Ludhiana.

The programme will also feature Sr. Maggie Elizabeth CMC, principal of Carmel Convent English Medium School, Thadiyoor, Kerala; Reena Charles, international director of the IAPM Network-Schools; and Ekta Kaundal Parihar, deputy secretary of CISCE.

Church leaders and representatives of Christ University are also scheduled to address the convention, with Member of Parliament John Brittas among the speakers.

By placing positive classrooms at the centre of its deliberations, AINACS seeks to highlight the role of everyday school experiences in shaping children's attitudes, relationships and values. The convention's focus underscores the importance of nurturing these qualities early to help young people grow into responsible citizens who uphold justice, resolve differences peacefully and respect the dignity of others.

By Catholic Connect Reporter