Posted On: 25 March, 2026

CHENNAI – In a pioneering move to enhance the holistic development of students, Niraivagam – Don Bosco Institute of Psychological Services (DBIPS), in collaboration with Teatro 7 Solidarietà, Rome, launched a comprehensive 10-day workshop focused on Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and Personality Traits.

Recognizing that education transcends textbooks, the project focused on Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and Personality Development, specifically tailored to the secondary psychological and developmental needs of students through the creative medium of theatre.

The project commenced with a 5-day Formative Training Programme held from February 25th to March 2nd, 2026, at the Niraivagam headquarters in Kilpauk. This initial phase targeted Teachers and School Counsellors, equipping them with practical theatre-based methods.

Under the expert guidance of international facilitators, educators and counsellors explored how performance arts can be used to cultivate emotional intelligence, resilience, and leadership qualities in students.

The second half of the project, running from March 3rd to March 7th, 2026, shifted the focus directly to the student body. The trained educators implemented these learned methods through a 5-day practical application programme. This phase directly benefited student leaders and captains from Classes VI to IX, helping them refine their personality traits and social competencies through immersive activities.

The initiative was made possible through a heartfelt partnership with Teatro 7 Solidarietà, Rome. Niraivagam extends its deepest gratitude to Mr. Adriano Bennicelli and Mrs. Cristina Morga, who travelled from Italy to convene the project, bringing with them a "human touch" that bridged cultures through the universal language of theatre.

 

Speaking on the initiative, Niraivagam representatives noted that integrating theatre into Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is a vital step toward creating a more empathetic and self-aware generation of student leaders. This collaboration between Niraivagam and Teatro 7 Solidarietà underscores a shared commitment to the psychological health of the young; by focusing on the "secondary needs" of beneficiaries—the emotional and social foundations that lie beyond the academic curriculum—the workshop ensures that Chennai’s students are met with professional care and artistic inspiration. Ultimately, by equipping mentors with these creative pedagogical tools, the Salesian schools continue to uphold their enduring commitment to the integral formation of the young.