ECUADOR: Salesian Project Ecuador expands educational offerings with Indigenous populations
Goal to increase impact on social, educational development
ECUADOR
(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Project Ecuador has officially announced the integration of the Chankuap Foundation into its national network of socio-educational centers. As part of this new institutional structure, the organization has taken the name Salesian Chankuap Foundation, consolidating the legacy of its founders and ushering in a new phase of growth, service, and sustainability in the city of Macas, Ecuador.
The organization was founded in 1996 to address the needs of the Indigenous Shuar and Achuar people as well as mixed-ethnicity populations living in situations of vulnerability and exclusion. Salesians have distinguished themselves through an approach centered on human dignity, equity and respect for cultural identity. The goal now is to increase the impact on social and educational development in the region.
The first focus will be on the Casa Padre Silvio Broseghini Reference Center. This educational center, run by the Salesians, provides comprehensive support to 70 youth, aged 7-18, who are living in situations of vulnerability and social exclusion.
With upcoming support, the center will enhance its core services. Salesians will provide academic support with programs focused on language and math. Daily meals and psychosocial support will also be provided.
A Salesian explained, “For the Shuar, Achuar and mixed-ethnicity communities, this support goes beyond the classroom. It represents a crucial opportunity for youth to strengthen their cultural identity and build sustainable life plans, enabling them to participate actively in society without losing their roots.”
The Salesian added, “With the incorporation of the Salesian Chankuap Foundation, the Salesian Project Ecuador is expanding its presence in the Ecuadorian Amazon and reaffirming its commitment to a holistic education that responds to diverse local realities, promoting inclusion, respect for cultural identity, and close support for youth and their families.”
Salesians provide social development and educational programs across Ecuador to help youth who are poor gain an education and the skills for later employment. The skills they learn ensure they are able to care for themselves and their families while being contributing members of their communities.
Ecuador is one of the most inequitable societies in the world, according to UNICEF. The richest 20% of the population receives almost 50% of the national income, while the poorest 20% receives only 5%. According to the World Food Programme, almost 26% of all children under age 5 have stunted growth, increasing to 31% in rural areas and 47% in Indigenous communities.
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Sources:
ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)
Salesian Missions – Ecuador
UNICEF – Ecuador
