(MissionNewswire) More than 1,200 at-risk Salesian students attending the Sacred Heart Vicariate Educational Center which consists of five individual schools in Ludueña, Rosario in Santa Fe Province, Argentina, have access to better computer literacy thanks to a Salesian Missions donor. The Salesian Center had outdated, deficient computers that had been donated more than 15 years ago and the government would not provide the school any funding to update its computer lab.

Donor funding has allowed the center to purchase 12 new computers giving students better training opportunities in computer literacy and an improved learning environment. Students are also better able to research and engage in their studies as well as more readily prepare for entering the workforce.

The Salesian center is staffed by both Salesian missionaries and lay teachers who provide education and training to poor youth so that they can enter the labor market. The center offers specialized training in the skills that are currently needed in the local market, helping students to make an easier transition from the classroom into employment. Students also have access to life skills and entrepreneurship training as well as sports, music and personal development opportunities.

“All youth deserve to be valued members of their community,” says Father Mark Hyde, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Students supported by the Bartolomé Ambrosio Salesian Vocational Training Center have a real opportunity to gain an education, connect with their peers and gain the work experience and social skills needed for long-term employment.”

“We are thankful to the donor who provided the funding so the center can offer more computers and additional technology training for students. Learning how to use a computer is essential for today’s workforce,” adds. Fr. Hyde.

Salesian programs across Argentina are primarily focused on education. Salesian primary and secondary education in the country prepares youth for technical, vocational or university study. Other programs help meet the basic needs of poor youth and their families by providing shelter, proper nutrition and medical care, helping youth to engage in their education and have hope for the future.

More than a quarter of the people in Argentina live in conditions of poverty with no formal employment and poor-quality education, according to the World Bank. The country’s high school dropout rate is close to 37 percent and youth account for a third of those unemployed. Almost 12 percent of children aged 5 to 17 are working instead of in school and 20 percent need government assistance. Many face malnutrition, a lack of clean water and sewage and inadequate housing.

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Sources:

Salesian Missions Projects

World Bank – Argentina