The programme was held from Monday, 12th January, through Friday, 16th January 2026. As is customary, it created space for reflection, planning, capacity strengthening, and spiritual grounding as the team prepared for the year ahead.
The first day began with a powerful charge from the Provincial, Very Rev. Fr. Peter Morba, SDB, who reminded the team that the workplace should be a place of joy, peace, love, fulfilment, and growth. He encouraged the PDO team to begin the year with intentional reflection, introducing the simple but profound framework he summarised as SSC:
* Stop habits that no longer add value,
* Start habits that will help growth and effectiveness, and
* Continue habits that already bear good fruit.
He also called the team to practice gratitude and contentment, even in small achievements, before offering a blessing to commence the programme formally.
Over the course of the programme, several sessions were facilitated by members of the PDO team, drawing directly from the programme schedule and focusing on strengthening systems, clarity of purpose, and collaboration.
The PDO Director, Rev. Fr. Raphael Airoboman, SDB, led a foundational session that brought renewed clarity on the meaning, purpose, objectives, and operating models of the PDO. He emphasised that the PDO is far more than a planning unit; rather, it is the animation tool of the Province and the strategic engine room of the Salesian mission, driving impact, coordination, and sustainability across the Province.
Mr Tosin Ademulegun, the PDO Finance Officer, facilitated a practical session on budgeting in project writing. He highlighted the importance of sound budgeting as a core component of successful proposals, stressing principles such as accuracy and realism, transparency and clarity, strict compliance with donor guidelines, and alignment with organisational policies.
The Deputy PDO Director, Mr Steve Igbokwe, led an interactive session on improved proposal writing and project design skills. Drawing from real-world experience, he walked the team through the basic elements of strong project proposals and helped them understand key donor motivations, including measurable impact, sustainability, organisational capacity, and geographic focus.
Mr Cletus Etukakpan, the P-TVET Coordinator, facilitated an engaging and hands-on SWOT Analysis session. Through breakout group discussions, the team collectively assessed the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of the PDO, providing valuable insights that will guide strategic decisions and performance throughout the year.
The programme was also deeply rooted in prayer and reflection, with Holy Mass presided over by the Provincial, Very Rev. Fr. Morba. During the Mass, Rev. Fr. Matthew Adetiloye, who gave the homily, reminded the team that sacred symbols do not replace discernment, just as plans do not replace practice and productivity. Reflecting on the day’s reading (1 Samuel 4:1–11), he cautioned against relying solely on inherited prestige, represented by the Don Bosco name, and emphasised that true mission planning in the Church goes beyond writing and executing projects to healing individuals and communities, building real capacity, and ensuring that compassion, fidelity, and Christ remain at the centre of every plan. After the Mass, a blessing of the office workspace followed.
As part of the year’s preparation, the PDO updated its calendar of events, reviewed its communication matrix, and clarified previously grey areas in team roles and responsibilities. The programme concluded with moments of fellowship, shared meals, games, and informal interactions that further strengthened team bonding and collaboration.
This fruitful deliberation has set a strong foundation for the year. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our donors and partners whose unwavering support sustains our mission. With renewed energy and commitment, we look forward to a successful and impactful year.