Salesian work includes vocational training centers

(MissionNewswire) Salesian schools in Spain resumed their activities to serve thousands of youth through schools and educational centers in September. There are 94 Salesian educational centers in the country where approximately 81,000 students are taught by 6,000 teachers. In addition, 18,000 students attend 56 vocational training centers, where they have the opportunity to learn a trade thanks to the work of around 2,000 teachers.

Salesians have dedicated this year’s pastoral education around the theme “Protagonists of History.” The theme was inspired by Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation “Christus Vivit”, with the aim to encourage youth and educators to discover that their personal stories have a broader and universal meaning and are intertwined with God’s plan for each individual. During the first four months of the school year, emphasis will be placed on Salesian history to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the first missionary expedition of the Salesians to Argentina, which marked the expansion of the congregation worldwide.

“Salesian work in Spain goes beyond traditional education,” explained a Salesian. “With more than 400 ongoing projects, Salesian social platforms offer opportunities for social and professional advancement to more than 62,000 recipients, supported by some 2,200 educators and collaborators. Around 36,000 young people attend one of the more than 100 Salesian youth centers, where they find a space for growth in faith and recreation. Almost 4,000 staff dedicate their time to supporting youth who attend these centers. Salesians also have 54 parishes where more than 47,000 people attend. These parishes operate with the support of more than 3,000 collaborators.”

Salesian missionaries in Spain provide primary and secondary educational as well as vocational and technical school to ensure youth acquire employment skills for the futures. Salesians also work to meet the basic needs of youth living in poverty and offer workforce development opportunities to ensure an easier school to work transition.

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Spain – Nearly 81,000 students will start the school year in Salesian schools with the motto: ‘Protagonists of History’

Salesian Missions – Spain