ICYM Odisha Hosts 3-Day Regional Youth Leadership Training Programme in Jharsuguda

Jharsuguda, Odisha, June 24, 2025: The Odisha Region Unit of the Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) held its 11th Regional Youth Leadership Training Programme from June 15 to 18, 2025, at the Utkal Jyoti Pastoral Centre in Jharsuguda, Odisha. The three-day event, held under the theme “Servant Leadership: Empowering Young Leaders to Serve”, brought together youth from various dioceses across Odisha. 

Organised by the regional youth leadership of ICYM Odisha under the guidance of Fr. Prakash Kiro (Regional Youth Director), Mr. Sraban Digal (Regional Youth President), and Miss Chiky Sabhasundar (Regional Youth Secretary), the three-day programme aimed to equip the participants with practical leadership skills rooted in service to the community.

The event featured a series of sessions on youth ministry, political leadership, and personal development. Participants engaged in morning prayers, group discussions, educational workshops, and recreational activities. They also attended workshops which focused on the challenges faced by young people today and their constitutional rights and responsibilities.

The programme featured several expert speakers, including Rev. Fr. Anurajan Bilung from the SVD Provincialate and Sr. Clara D'Souza HM, an advocate. Other resource persons included Fr. Chetan, Fr. Linus Lakra SDB, and representatives from the National Executive Committee (NEXCO) of ICYM. Special sessions during the programme covered topics such as psycho-sexual and emotional challenges of youth, political leadership and civic engagement, career guidance and motivation, and action planning for community service. 

The training programme concluded with a certificate distribution ceremony, followed by a council meeting. During the meeting, participants pledged to apply the knowledge and skills they had gained over the three-day programme in their respective communities back home.

The training aimed to create a network of young servant leaders dedicated to positive social change. Held annually, it continues to play a vital role in developing youth leadership across Odisha.  

By Apurva Xess

ICYM NEXCO Member (Chhattisgarh)