Rome (Italy). On 24 January 2026, in collaboration with the Office International de l’Enseignement Catholique (OIEC), the Youth Ministry Sector of the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians organized a webinar on the theme, “The Centrality of Care: The Emotional Health of Young People in Educational Settings,” aimed at the educating communities of Higher Education Institutions, university pastoral care, university residences/boarding schools, and other educational contexts in the English-speaking Provinces.
Dr. Hervé Lecomte, Secretary General of the OIEC, was the speaker at the meeting. 157 connections were registered, with the participation of approximately 350 educators, including FMA Sisters, teachers, and students.
The webinar opened with a moment of prayer and a biblical quote that invited participants to reflect on Jesus’ care for young people and the most vulnerable, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matthew 19:14). This was followed by a video message from Sister Runita Borja, General Councilor for Youth Ministry, on the Salesian educational style, founded on the principles of reason, religion, and loving-kindness, and oriented towards the integral growth of young people.
The webinar addressed a growing concern in educational institutions, the emotional well-being of young people. As academic pressures, social challenges, and personal uncertainties continue to impact students, the need for caring and supportive educational environments has become increasingly urgent. The meeting aimed to raise awareness, encourage reflection, and stimulate concrete actions from educators and those responsible for the education and well-being of students.
In his presentation, Dr. Lecomte emphasized the urgent need to pay greater attention to the emotional needs of students in schools and universities. He highlighted how emotional health is not separate from academic success, but deeply intertwined with learning, personal growth, and holistic development. He also reiterated the importance of working together to promote healthy environments where students feel safe, valued, heard, and supported.
The participants actively shared their thoughts and experiences and had the opportunity to clarify their doubts. They also expressed their appreciation for OIEC’s commitment to publishing and disseminating the volume “Emotional Health of Youth in the School Environment,” which has been made available to educational communities. (link to download it)
Overall, the webinar was a significant educational event and a strong call to reflect and renew our commitment to caring for young people, offering safe spaces and promoting healthy environments where they can grow and flourish emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. The meeting concluded with a message of hope, reaffirming that together we can build an open, fraternal, and future-oriented “Village of Education.”
