Projects include tree planting, development of green areas

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco schools in Cambodia are actively promoting ecological awareness and sustainable practices through education, pastoral care and community involvement. Two schools, Don Bosco Kep and Don Bosco Sihanoukville, have developed a range of initiatives that integrate care for creation into daily school life.

A Salesian explained, “Through reforestation activities, environmental education programs and the protection of coastal ecosystems, students are encouraged to see ecology as an essential dimension of their human and Christian formation.”

Some of the most important projects are tree planting, the development of green areas and the restoration of mangroves along the coast. These initiatives are coordinated within the framework of the Don Bosco Green Alliance Cambodia, which brings together educational institutions, local communities and youth around a shared commitment to integral ecology.

Indigenous youth are also involved in these efforts, with initiatives such as the Namuncurá Short Film Festival offering platforms to express ecological concerns through storytelling, culture and creative media.

Father Rafael Bejarano, general councilor for youth ministry, has encouraged Salesian schools to take inspiration from the UNESCO Green School Quality Standard, which provides a quality standard for greening schools and other learning environments. In Cambodia, these principles are being gradually incorporated into educational practice, showing how ecological education can be integrated into academic programs, vocational training and pastoral life.

The Salesian noted, “Through these concrete actions, Don Bosco schools in Cambodia continue to embody the Salesian commitment to care for our common home while supporting youth to become responsible citizens and showing ecological responsibility within their communities.”

Salesians in Cambodia provide primary and secondary schools along with technical education so youth have an opportunity to gain an education and develop the skills for employment. These educational services are bolstered by social development programs that help youth have access to basic needs like food, shelter and life skills training.

###

Sources:

Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Cambodia

ANS – Cambodia – Don Bosco schools pioneer Ecological Action ahead of worldwide campaign

Don Bosco Kep

Salesian Missions – Cambodia

World Bank – Cambodia