Project enables girls to remain in school under better conditions

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in the Democratic Republic of the Congo* were able to strengthen school retention for girls who are vulnerable thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The funding helped support 150 girls attending the Muetu Don Bosco Remedial School in Mbuji-Mayi.

In Mbuji-Mayi, many girls are forced to leave school because of poverty, early marriage, domestic work or discriminatory cultural norms. This situation severely limits their access to quality education and jeopardizes their future. Muetu Don Bosco Remedial School offers a second chance to youth who are out of school and pays particular attention to girls. It enables them to re-enter the education system, acquire basic skills and regain self-confidence.

The project covered the school fees and supplies for the 150 girls, reducing the economic pressure on families and enabling the girls to remain in school under better conditions. This reduced financial barriers for girls attending school and retained girls within the school system.

A Salesian explained, “The project was developed in response to the particular vulnerability of many girls from disadvantaged or single parent families who face various obstacles that compromise their access to and retention in school. This includes poverty, lack of resources to pay school fees, early pregnancies, domestic responsibilities, unfavorable social norms, marginalization and the risk of dropping out. Paying the school fees for these girls helped to mitigate some of these challenges. Remaining in school contributed to strengthening their self-confidence, well-being and ability to continue their educational journey.”

One of the students who benefited is Ntumba Kashita, aged 14. She explained, “I come from a very poor family. My parents have faced enormous difficulties in paying for my education. Even getting food is very difficult in my family. I felt useless in society when I saw my friends sitting in school while I was struggling to attend. Without this project, my parents would not have been able to pay my school fees. Today, I am continuing my studies with peace of mind and confidence, and I dream of becoming a teacher. I thank you with all my heart.”

Salesian missionaries have been working in the Democratic Republic of the Congo for more than 100 years. Salesian primary and secondary schools and programs lay the foundation for early learning, while Salesian trade, vocational and agricultural programs offer many youth the opportunity for a stable and productive future.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in these countries were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.