The meeting provided an important opportunity for reflection, updating, and shared discernment on key aspects of Salesian formation in the African context.

The first day, animated by Fr Silvio Roggia, was entirely dedicated to the presentation of the new edition of the Ratio Fundamentalis Institutionis et Studiorum. Through a dynamic and participatory methodology, the formators explored the essential pillars of the renewed Ratio, including the inseparable link between formation and mission, the centrality of pastoral accompaniment, the proper understanding of scrutinies and admissions, and the formation of formators themselves.

The reflections enabled participants to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges within their specific contexts, fostering a spirit of shared responsibility and commitment to ensuring quality initial formation rooted in the Salesian charism.

The second day focused on the theme: “Building Bridges Between the Stages of Salesian Formation,” presented by Fr Alphonse Owoudou. He structured his reflection around three key axes: the continuity of the person in formation throughout all stages; the irreplaceable pedagogical specificity of each phase; and the importance of transition — understood as the art of handing over responsibility between formation teams without losing the living memory and personal journey of the candidate.

To these three dimensions, Fr Owoudou added a critical reflection on the risk of “psychologism” as a false substitute for authentic accompaniment, while also highlighting the need to take into account the realities of the Global South. He strongly emphasized the importance of collaboration among formators to guarantee coherence and continuity in initial formation, while fully respecting the unique identity and objectives of each formative stage. In particular, he encouraged regular encounters among formation teams to strengthen communication and shared vision.

The two-day session was marked by a spirit of openness, fraternity, and constructive dialogue. It offered the formators a valuable opportunity for exchange with the two members of the General Council and reinforced their common commitment to forming Salesians capable of responding generously and competently to the mission among the young.