By Good Shepherd Educators – Asia Pacific 
Twenty-eight Good Shepherd educators, sisters, and partners-in-mission from India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, the Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam gathered in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, for a six-day Theory of Change (ToC) Workshop held at the Syantikara Retreat Centre, Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
The workshop which ran from February 22 – 28, 2026, was joined by representatives from the Congregational Formation Office and the Good Shepherd International Foundation, along with Province Leaders Sr. Alfonsa (Indonesia) and Sr. Susan Montano (Philippines–Japan). The sessions were facilitated by Sashirekha Natarajan and Theresa Symons. Members of Good Shepherd International Justice and Peace Office engaged with participants through a 15-minute video titled “Justice at the Core of Education.”
Building on the Joy of Educational Leadership programme 2025, the workshop invited participants to reflect deeply on the realities of education in their countries and to reimagine the change they sought. Together, they worked to shape Theory of Change pathways that will guide the education ministries in their countries from 2026 to 2028.
At the heart of these conversations was a shared vision:
“One Education Community that embodies the Good Shepherd charism and identity with Justice at the core of education.”
During the week, participants worked in country groups to map their own pathways of change.
For many participants, the workshop was also a joyful moment of reclaiming a clear strategic direction for education at the country level. The opportunity to think together, listen to one another, and shape a shared path forward brought renewed energy and hope. Educators expressed confidence in returning to their countries to have conversations with their unit leaders, with a clear plan and stronger collaboration among schools and ministries.
The workshop also helped identify common priorities for the Asia-Pacific region –
“Good Shepherd Education in Asia Pacific embodies the Good Shepherd identity led by mission partners who are co-responsible for its sustainability.”
The days together concluded with a deep sense of gratitude and commitment. Participants left Yogyakarta encouraged by the spirit of collaboration and inspired to continue strengthening Good Shepherd education across the Asia-Pacific region.
