Goa Youth Meet Highlights Equality and Inclusion

Goa, February 21, 2026: More than 300 students gathered at the St. Joseph Vaz Spiritual Renewal Centre in Old Goa for the Goa Region Final Meet of the Young Students Movement (YCS/YSM), underscoring a collective call for equality, inclusion and social responsibility among young people.

Held on February 20, the four-hour programme brought together students and teacher animators from across the dioceses of Goa. Coordinated by the DYC Animation Team, the gathering featured action songs and interactive sessions designed to encourage participation while reinforcing the movement’s emphasis on shared responsibility and faith-based social engagement.

Welcoming the participants, Fr. Blaise Lobo highlighted the importance of creating platforms where young people can engage critically with social realities through reflection and action. The event centred on the theme “Sharing Equality, Accepting Differences,” which shaped the day’s discussions and performances.

Students expressed the theme through songs, skits, dances and mime presentations that explored inclusion, empathy and respect for diversity. Organisers said the performances demonstrated how young participants can meaningfully engage with social concerns when provided space for creative expression.

The meet also recognised commitment within the movement. Outgoing YCS/YSM members received certificates acknowledging their service, while teacher animators with more than a decade of involvement were honoured for their sustained contribution to youth formation.

Delivering the keynote address, Fr. Rosario Walter D’Souza of the St. Francis Xavier’s Training Centre for Children with Disabilities reflected on the meaning of youth, urging participants to view it as an attitude marked by responsibility, openness and respect for difference.

The programme concluded with the YCS/YSM anthem and final prayer, as participants departed with a renewed emphasis on equality and acceptance—principles organisers said remain central to forming socially conscious and compassionate young citizens.