By Leo Paraha, PNG representative
Cambodia, Don Bosco KEP province, 14 March 2024 -- On 8-9 March, Don Bosco Media Representatives around the Asian and Oceania continent flew to Cambodia to gather for The Social Media Communication and Indigenous Peoples Voice for Synodality.
The countries that will take part in this two-week workshop are Mongolia, Philippines, East Timor, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar, Nepal, and Papua New Guinea.
The workshop commenced on 10 March and will end on the 20th of March 2024.
The first greeting and introduction took place yesterday, with all countries in their traditional indigenous costumes and monuments to present to Fr. Albeiro, the Rector of Don Bosco Kep Province.
In his opening remarks, Fr. Albeiro was delighted to see all dressed in different colors, which represent a bit of their country and, more so, their indigenous people and their ancestors.
Later in the ceremony, the Indigenous people of Cambodia demonstrated a ritual of speaking to the spirits of the spiritual realm by stirring the Rice Wine, and the indigenous people of different countries followed in the stirring while speaking to their ancestors to open doors for the success of the event.
The first session focused on breaking barriers in communication and translating languages using AI and smartphones. The day continued with the second session, which was on reporting news using the 5Ws and 1H.
The day wrapped up with a simple mass at the Salesian Residence, followed by a performance from students of Don Bosco Kep. The students showcased dance to Tai boxing with colorful costumes. The delegates, together with the students, then ended the day around the big bonfire with ritual dances.
