The 38th All India Catholic University Federation (AICUF) National Council was held from August 12 to 15, 2026, at Inigo Sadan, Jnana Deepa Campus, Pune. It brought together 80 delegates, including students, advisors, animators and other AICUF members from over 12 States. For me, this was a special and memorable experience. The Council gave us a chance to meet AICUFers from different parts of the country and learn about their work and experiences. The theme ‘Reimagining and Restructuring AICUF: Walking Together with Hope’ made us reflect about what the AICUF means to us and how we can continue to work together. The sessions and discussions helped us understand our role as youth.

The sessions and discussions with Fr. Stanislaus D’Souza and Fr. Joseph Lobo helped us understand the purpose of the AICUF and the role of youth in building society. The State reports were an important part of the Council. Listening to the reports from different States and learning about their activities, achievements and challenges gave us many new ideas.

We were also happy to have the presence of Fr. Agnelo Mascarenhas, who presided over the Holy Eucharist on the final day and encouraged us through his words. The Eucharistic celebrations and prayers throughout the Council gave us time to reflect and connect our faith with our work. Apart from the sessions, the cultural night, food exhibition, ecological activity, group discussions and spending time with people from different States made the Council very enriching and enjoyable. I made new friends, heard a variety of stories and got to experience the unity of AICUF.

At the end of the Council, I realised that there is a lot we can learn from one another. Working together, listening to others and taking responsibility as young people are some of the lessons I will carry with me. I returned home with new friendships, new ideas and a new commitment to continue the work of AICUF. The 38th AICUF National Council was not just a programme for me. It was four days of learning, sharing, meeting new people and creating memories that I will always treasure.

Loren Rosarius, AICUF President, Pune