ITALY

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian International Volunteering for Development (VIS) celebrated its 40-year anniversary of service on March 3. The organization was founded in Turin, Italy, with the aim of implementing international cooperation projects to support youth at risk. VIS has launched a new video that tells its story.

Over the past four decades, VIS has carried out more than a thousand development and emergency projects and has supported the work of the Salesians across five continents, reaching millions of youth through educational and socio-professional programs. It has also formed generations of individuals committed to international cooperation, the promotion of human rights, and peace.

The new institutional video, produced with IME Communications, recounts this journey through the women and men who work in the field, dedicating themselves to the people and communities served by VIS.

For its anniversary, VIS looks to share meetings, dialogue, experiences, deeper reflection and a renewed vision for the future with those who have participated. This will take place through different languages and in various locations that represent the identity of VIS including in Turin, Rome, the territories where volunteers and supporters are active, and the partner countries where projects are implemented and staff members serve in the field.

This anniversary comes at a moment of significant change for VIS, which has recently become a participatory foundation, with Mission Don Bosco in Turin as its founding body. Together, they are undertaking a path of collaboration to increase the impact and effectiveness of their interventions.

Michela Vallarino, president of VIS, said, “This 40th anniversary year is a time of great change for our organization, and we could not have celebrated it in a better way. With hearts full of esteem and gratitude for those who have helped write this story, we are ready to transform and relaunch it with renewed enthusiasm and motivation at a time when it seems more urgent than ever to speak about and work for integral human development, social justice, respect for the rule of law and human rights and peace.”

Father Luca Barone, president of Mission Don Bosco and vice president of VIS, also noted, “Having just concluded the celebration of the 150th anniversary of the First Salesian Missionary Expedition, I hope that, as VIS, we may know how to celebrate the past in order to live the present and dream of the future with the fidelity and creativity that Don Bosco teaches us.”

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ANS – Italy – VIS: 40 Years beside the Youth Around the World with Don Bosco

Salesian Missions – Italy

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ECUADOR

(MissionNewswire) The Mamma Margarita School canteen, run by the Salesian Project North Coast Foundation in Esmeraldas, Ecuador, provides daily balanced meals to 60 youth who are at risk of social exclusion. The meals contribute to their well-being, school performance, and social support in a safe environment where they can also strengthen their personal skills and social relationships.

Since its launch in August 2025, the canteen has been offering a nutritious and balanced lunch that promotes physical and cognitive development. Youth who are part of the feeding program are connected to the Mother of the Savior Reference Center and live in conditions of poverty.

A Salesian explained, “The center’s educational team identifies the needs of youth, supports their growth, and offers concrete responses to families to ensure youth continue to attend school, improve their academic performance, and participate in the project’s educational spaces.”

The canteen relies on the support of local and international institutions for operation. With their intervention, the necessary resources for infrastructure, equipment and food supplies have been made available. The Salesian foundation provides coordination, fundraising, and monitoring and evaluation in order to ensure sustainability over time.

Salesians also offer food education that promotes healthy habits and hygiene with the aim of enabling youth to share these good practices in their homes. The participation of families, through awareness-raising and support activities, reinforces the community impact.

The Salesian added, “With this canteen, Salesians reaffirm their commitment to the protection of children and adolescents, especially in the poorest areas. The decent nutrition, educational support and comprehensive assistance that children receive help to build an environment of hope that transforms their reality and opens up opportunities for the future.”

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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Photo courtesy of Misiones Salesianas

ANS – Ecuador – Daily balanced meals for 60 children at the Mamma Margarita school canteen in Esmeraldas

Salesian Missions – Ecuador

UNICEF – Ecuador

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INDIA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Industrial Training Institute, located in Kurla, a suburb of East Mumbai, India, signed a trilateral memorandum of understanding to strengthen the Indo-German vocational collaboration. With the goal of preparing youth for green and digital sectors such as solar energy and e-mobility, the agreement brings together the Don Bosco Institute, Germany’s HWK Region Stuttgart and German Society for International Cooperation under the Indo-German Green Skills Program.

A 16-member German delegation received a traditional welcome and engaged with the institute’s leadership on industry-linked training. The visitors also interacted with students pursuing German language preparation, emphasizing technical excellence alongside intercultural readiness.

A Salesian explained, “The agreement prioritizes curriculum adaptation to German standards, structured migration pathways and greater participation of women in technical trades. Bridge courses and B1/B2-level language training form part of the preparation framework. Effective until December 2027, the partnership establishes sustained institutional cooperation. The initiative strengthens global opportunities for the institute’s trainees and reinforces its mission. True to its motto, the institute continues to help youth ‘Learn a Trade, Earn a Living.’”

Access to professional training and workforce development services is highly valued in India. India’s youth face a lack of educational opportunities due to issues of caste, class and gender. Almost 44% of the workforce is illiterate and less than 10% of the working-age population has completed a secondary education. In addition, many secondary school graduates do not have the knowledge and skills to compete in today’s changing job market.

India has the world’s fourth largest economy but more than 22% of the country lives in poverty. About 31% of the world’s multidimensionally poor children live in India, according to a report by the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative.

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ANS – India – DBITI Kurla Partners with German Institutions to Boost Green Skills Training

Salesian Missions – India

World Bank – India

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ZAMBIA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Makululu, located in the city of Kabwe, Zambia, is rescuing boys, aged 7-18 years old, from a life on the streets. Some of the children and youth are orphans while others come from families marked by violence, addiction and extreme poverty.

A Salesian said, “A telephone booth is not a home. Yet for many street children, it becomes one, even if only for a night. When darkness falls, the narrow space, exposed to cold and shadow, becomes the only refuge that allows them to survive until dawn. It offers neither warmth nor safety, only the illusion of shelter from noise, fear, and loneliness. Here, children learn vigilance instead of trust and silence instead of cries for help.”

Ciloto, part of Don Bosco Makululu, is the first step, which offers youth a process of formation and education that gradually prepares them for return to their families or reintegration into the community. Salesians, together with lay collaborators, provide a safe place to live, regular meals, access to clean water, and basic medical care. Once boys are able to access this stability, they study, have shared responsibilities, work, play sports and rest.

The Salesian noted, “The most powerful educational tool is the steady and coherent presence of a caring adult. Many boys struggle with addiction, often to glue. Here, addiction is not an identity but a wound to be healed. Recovery includes medical care, constant guidance and a structured routine that helps restore self-control. There are relapses and returns to the street, yet experience shows that once a child has known the safety of a true home and the faithfulness of adults, the memory of that goodness remains within him.”

In addition, Ciloto 2 was created to serve as a rehabilitation and support facility for those requiring specialized care. Educators, along with professional psychological support, serve youth with more complex needs.

The Salesian added, “Closely connected to this newer home is a farm that has become not only a workplace but also a place of inner renewal. Its aim is self-sufficiency and care for creation, using solar energy and biogas while teaching responsible stewardship. The farm includes pig breeding, food production, and fishponds serving both the house and the local community. The farm also has fields of corn, soybeans and sunflowers, as well as an orchard and an area for laying hens. Even small participation in farm work is part of the rehabilitation process.”

Whenever possible, Salesians search for families, often in remote areas of Zambia, to help youth safely return home. Reintegration into the family or local community is among the most meaningful outcomes of this mission. More than 240 boys have received support, and 142 have returned to their families or communities.

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Ciloto-Saved from the Streets

Don Bosco Makululu

Salesian Missions – Zambia

UNICEF – Zambia

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(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Missionary Center in Warsaw, Poland, has been serving Ukrainian refugees and supporting people still in the country since the beginning of the Russian invasion four years ago. With winter, power cuts become a humanitarian emergency. The most vulnerable people, including children, the elderly and the chronically ill, are most affected without electricity, heating, hot water and light.

The Daughters of Mary Help of Christians and the Salesians of Don Bosco in Ukraine* have transformed houses, oratories and youth centers into shelters for displaced families. There, they can receive hot meals and access psychological support and prayer, while youth can attend school. In many cities, Salesian facilities have become the only place where stability and support can be found.

A Salesian explained, “The only source of energy at these facilities is often a single generator, which can only operate if there is fuel. Relying on a generator is essential for activities such as cooking and distributing meals, charging phones and medical devices, providing evening lighting, and storing medicines at a controlled temperature. When the tank is empty, everything stops.”

The Salesian Missionary Center launched an online campaign to raise funds to purchase fuel, cover transport costs to the most affected areas and build up emergency reserves. The distribution of aid will be adapted to the current situation in different regions of the country, based on the intensity of power outages.

Contributing to the purchase of fuel means assuring those in need have the electricity they need for cooking, heating and lights. The Salesian noted, “We continue to support the Salesians in Ukraine, so that they can provide electricity, heat and safety where they are most needed today.”

Since the beginning of the war, Salesian Missions and Salesian missionaries in Ukraine and around the globe have supported thousands of people with projects and activities aimed at alleviating the situation of people affected by the war.

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ANS – Ukraine – The role of Salesian works, true points of reference for the local population

Salesian Missions

UNHCR – Ukraine

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country 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.

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NIGERIA

(MissionNewswire) The Youth Employability Booster Project celebrated its first graduation ceremonies across the three Salesian hubs in Nigeria of Abuja, Lagos and Obosi. The project equips Nigerian youth with market‑relevant skills designed to meet the demands of today’s workforce and is supported by the Mastercard Foundation and implemented in collaboration with Young Africa Nigeria.

A Salesian said, “Across the three centers, the graduations represent more than ceremonial achievements. They signify a strategic investment in Nigeria’s youth. Through strong partnerships and a shared vision, the Youth Employability Booster Project continues to foster economic inclusion, resilience and dignity among young Nigerians.”

At the Abuja Center in Kubwa, the first students celebrated the completion of the course. The ceremony was described as a moment of reflection and inspiration, as organizers commended the graduates for their consistency, resilience, and determination.

A Salesian noted, “Speakers emphasized that graduation marks not an end, but a significant step forward in the professional journeys of the young participants. Representatives of partner organizations reaffirmed their shared commitment to empowering Nigerian youth with employable skills.”

The graduation at Lagos Center featured industry engagement. Delivering the keynote address, Mayowa Adanlawo, a business development manager at Wema Bank, encouraged the graduates to embrace financial literacy, entrepreneurship and business growth as critical tools for long-term success. Theresa Amaechi, head of people, culture, and transformation at Workforce Group, shared practical perspectives on workplace culture, adaptability and professional excellence.

In Obosi, 114 participants celebrated their graduation. The mobile training model was widely praised for its transformative impact. By bringing high‑quality vocational education directly into local communities, the initiative has made skills training more accessible, practical, and life‑changing for young people..

About 64% of households in Nigeria consider themselves to be poor while 32% of households say their economic situation had worsened over a period of one year, according to UNICEF. Poverty still remains one of the most critical challenges facing the country and population growth rates have meant a steady increase in the number of people living in conditions of poverty.

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ANS – Nigeria – Youth Employability Booster Project Celebrates Maiden Graduations

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ECUADOR

(MissionNewswire) Salesian Project Guayaquil Foundation in Ecuador is highlighting its recent impact for youth and families in situations of vulnerability and exclusion in its 2025 report. During 2025, the foundation assisted 950 youth and 580 families through integrated programs focused on technical training and education, psychosocial support, and the promotion of rights.

These programs were developed in priority areas such as Monte Sinaí, Socio Vivienda 2, Isla Trinitaria, Bastión Popular, Vía Daule and neighboring areas, where the Salesian institution maintains an active and constant presence.

With these programs, Salesians are responding to complex situations for these families. Data has found that 36.72% of families live in informal settlements, 22.81% are considered vulnerable due to their Afro-descendant status, 12.07% are unemployed or not in the process of professionalization, 8.77% are behind in school, and 8.96% are single mothers and fathers.

A Salesian noted, “This data highlights the need to strengthen social supports with the creation of opportunities and comprehensive programs. Youth deserve an opportunity to gain an education and have hope for the future. Meeting basic needs and providing them with social support is vital in helping them to achieve that goal.”

Salesians presented the 2025 report at the Salesian Polytechnic University in Guayaquil, which was attended by authorities, cooperators and strategic partners. The foundation expressed its gratitude to the Sacred Heart of Jesus Province of Ecuador, the university and national and international cooperators, whose commitment makes it possible to support and expand this work.

The Salesian added, “The 2025 report presented not only quantitative results but also stories of overcoming adversity and processes of transformation that reflect the human impact of a mission committed to respecting the dignity of all and to the education and integral development of those most in need.”

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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ANS – Ecuador – 950 lives supported in 2025: the Proyecto Salesiano Guayaquil Foundation reaffirms its social commitment

Salesian Missions – Ecuador

UNICEF – Ecuador

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(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries continue to help support the people of Ukraine* four years after the war began. The war has transformed the lives of millions of people and affected an entire generation of children. They have faced destroyed schools, interrupted lessons, forced displacement, and constant power and heating cuts.

Salesian missionaries have maintained a constant commitment to youth, ensuring access to education as an essential tool for protection and hope. Over the past four years, Salesian schools and youth centers have continued to operate, adapting to security conditions, setting up shelters and ensuring the continuity of educational programs even during the harshest winter months.

Father Mykhaylo Chaban, superior of the Salesian Vice-Province of Mary Help of Christians, said, “The aid we have received and continue to receive from all over the world gives us the hope and support needed to face the challenges in times of war, especially during the cold winter. Thanks to the solidarity of thousands of people, we have light and heat to live on, and many children can go to school.”

Humanitarian aid remains crucial for thousands of Ukrainian citizens. Salesian missionaries travel to areas near the front lines to distribute food, blankets, generators and fuel, supporting families who remain in particularly vulnerable areas. Salesian support has enabled Ukrainians to feel support even in the most isolated areas.

“In these four years of war, it is the youngest who have been most affected. For them, education not only imparts knowledge, but also offers stability, confidence and a future. We remain committed to them and our appeal for peace,” said Father Luis Manuel Moral, director of the Salesian Mission Office in Madrid.

Since the beginning of the war, Salesian Missions and Salesian organizations around the globe have supported thousands of people with projects and activities aimed at alleviating the situation for those in Ukraine and those who have fled to neighboring countries.

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ANS – Ukraine – Four years of war in Ukraine: hope endures beneath the bombs

Salesian Missions

UNHCR – Ukraine

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country 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.

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BRAZIL

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian School of Work, located in Ananindeua, Brazil, celebrated the opening of the Padre Lourenço Bertolusso Vocational Formation Center, which expands the Salesian educational and social mission in the region. The new center will offer education courses in automotive skills, motorcycle and refrigeration mechanics, electrical systems for buildings, and the installation of photovoltaic systems.

A Salesian said, “Our goal is to ensure that youth, living in conditions of poverty, are able to access high-quality education that teaches them skills for employment. Salesians help ensure these youth become self-sufficient and contributing members of their community.”

The Salesian School of Work has a 63-year history dedicated to educating youth who are in situations of social vulnerability.

The opening program included a Mass of thanksgiving attended by partner companies and Victor Dias, the secretary of the State Secretariat for Science, Technology, Higher, Professional and Technological Education of Pará. These entities contribute significantly to the strengthening of the initiative.

Just over 15% of Brazilians live in poverty, with the majority living in the rural northeast of the country, according to the World Bank. While Brazil is making positive changes, there are still large gaps between people who are poor and who are rich, and issues of income inequality and social exclusion remain at the root of poverty.

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ANS – Brazil – Salesian School of Work opens new Centre for Vocational Formation

Salesian Missions – Brazil

World Bank – Brazil

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INDIA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco English Medium School and Don Bosco Piloo Modi High School in India jointly hosted a three-day AI STEAM (science, technology, engineering, math and arts) learning workshop in February, engaging more than 700 students, parents and teachers.

Organized in collaboration with International S.T.E.A.M Research, the program introduced participants to artificial intelligence, robotics, coding, drones, Internet of Things and extended reality technologies.

A Salesian noted, “Learners engaged in hands-on sessions, coding robots, flying drones and working with sensor-based applications. Teachers and parents also participated, many experiencing advanced technologies for the first time. Students described the workshop as transformative and confidence-building.”

Father Elson Baretto, rector, called the initiative a step to help make students future-ready through experiential education. Father Daresh, principal, said the institution aims to set a benchmark for holistic, technology-driven learning in Panchmahal district. The schools plan to establish a permanent AI STEAM Lab with International S.T.E.A.M Research’s support, strengthening access to futuristic education in rural Gujarat.

Salesian programs across India are primarily focused on education. Salesian primary and secondary education in the country helps youth prepare for later technical, vocational or university study. Other programs help to support poor youth and their families by meeting the basic needs of shelter, proper nutrition and medical care.

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ANS – India – Don Bosco Narukot Hosts AI STEAM Workshop for 700 Learners

Salesian Missions – India

World Bank – India

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Technical School Gabutu has responded with support as people living in the 2 Mile community, located in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, face uncertainty following recent evictions. Many families have been left displaced while awaiting a response to their appeal to the Investment Promotion Authority. Most of these affected residents are fourth-generation settlers with no land to return to in their provinces of origin.

A Salesian noted, “Despite offers of assistance from donors, progress toward a stable solution remains slow, and delays in official responses have increased the vulnerability of families, particularly women and children. In recent weeks, reports of evictions and the destruction of homes and property have further deepened the hardship. Several students residing in the affected areas have been impacted, with some withdrawing from school for the 2026 academic year.”

The Don Bosco Technical School has provided temporary food assistance to support the immediate needs of the displaced families. While the institution has no direct involvement in the land dispute, it has sought to respond to the humanitarian needs arising from the situation.

Father Ambrose Pereira, rector of the school, expressed appreciation to the staff, students, past pupils and parishioners of Mary Help of Christians Sabama for their generous outreach. Staff from Don Bosco Technological Institute, along with members of the pastoral team and several benefactors, also contributed to the donation drive.

People evicted from the 2 Mile community expressed gratitude for the support. The assistance has brought visible relief and renewed hope, especially among mothers and children affected by the evictions.

Papua New Guinea has a population of approximately 7.5 million people. It is a resource-rich country with oil, gas and gold reserves, as well as fertile land capable of producing high crop yields. Despite this, an estimated 40% of Papua New Guineans live below the poverty line of $1.25 per day, according to the World Bank.

Close to 50% of adults are illiterate and 25% of children are unable to attend school in Papua New Guinea. Part of the problem with getting to school, work and hospitals has to do with the country’s infrastructure. In rural areas, where nearly 88% of the population resides, there are few roads or means of transportation to get to schools or places of employment.

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ANS – Papua New Guinea – Don Bosco Supports Displaced Families in Port Moresby

Salesian Missions – Papua New Guinea

World Bank – Papua New Guinea Poverty

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(MissionNewswire) Amid growing violence in the Middle East, Salesians with the Salesian Jesus the Adolescent of the Middle East Province are working to ensure the safety of children in Palestine*, Israel and Lebanon*.

In Lebanon, attacks are causing thousands of displacements and worsening an already fragile humanitarian situation. The incursion of Israeli forces into the country has further heightened tensions. The south of the country, particularly the Nabatieh region, has experienced intense bombardments, forcing numerous families to flee their homes in search of safety.

“The Middle East is facing a new and dramatic phase of emergency,” explained Father Simon Zakerian, provincial. “The civilian population will be the hardest hit, especially the most vulnerable, such as women and children. Following the attacks, our schools in Palestine, Israel and Lebanon have once again had to close to ensure the safety of our youth.”

In response, Salesians have reopened their doors to shelter displaced families. At the Don Bosco El Houssoun Center in Jbeil, about 30 kilometers (about 18 miles) north of Beirut, 120 people from approximately 30 families are being hosted, including about 50 children and 10 elderly individuals in vulnerable conditions.

A Salesian from Lebanon said, “We are certain that in the coming hours and days this number will increase. We must guarantee basic necessities for all these people, warm clothing, food and water. This is what we are focusing on.”

Many families arrive after 16 hours of travel to cover just 110 kilometers (about 68 miles), due to massive traffic jams caused by the exodus of people fleeing the bombings. Classrooms were quickly transformed into reception spaces with mattresses, blankets, and basic humanitarian aid kits, while Salesians, staff, and volunteers organize assistance for the families.

The Salesian added, “We are also worried about the lack of fuel in the West Bank, as many families have no way to heat their homes or cook, including our own communities, such as the one in Cremisan.”

Fr. Zakerian concluded, “We find ourselves, again, facing a complicated situation, but our entire network — Salesians, staff members and volunteers — is ready to help communities in Lebanon, Palestine and Israel as quickly as possible.”

The Salesian Mission Office in Madrid is already working together with the Salesians in the Middle East and the Salesian solidarity network to organize the necessary aid. Father Luis Manuel Moral, director of the Salesian Mission Office in Madrid, said, “We are appealing to all citizens to channel their solidarity toward those in need. It is not only about giving a blanket or bread, but about bringing hope to those who are now living in such a difficult situation.”

He added, “Furthermore, we join the words of Pope Leo XIV, who calls on us to ‘seek a way to stop the spiral of violence before it becomes an irreparable abyss,’ and we urge all parties to lay down their weapons and threats and to seek lasting peace through dialogue.”

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ANS – Middle East – “We Are Working to Ensure Aid Arrives as Soon as Possible”

Salesian Missions

Salesian Province of the Middle East

Salesian Province of the Middle East Facebook

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country 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.

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) Salesians held the 10th edition of Patio Bosco in Corrientes, Argentina, with more than 110 youth and adults taking part in this missionary summer experience. About 70 local volunteers from Salesian centers collaborated on the event. The theme for the event was “A decade on the streets”, recalling the journey Salesians have taken in the region.

Paz Meana, who was part of the team that carried out Patio Bosco 2026, shared her joy after the event. She said, “I experienced it with a lot of love, supporting where necessary. This service allowed me to visit local Salesians oratories. I am very grateful to be part of this story and of my beloved Domingo y Laura community.”

The first few days allowed the leaders to get to know each other and form groups for each oratory. Moments of education and reflection were shared, as well as Masses in honor of Laura Vicuña and St. Francis de Sales. Activities were also held that included games, educational workshops, catechesis and shared snacks.

Francisco Balmaceda summarized what he experienced during these days. He said, “Patio Bosco was a very enriching experience for my education, not only as a volunteer but also as a person. I thank God for allowing me to live this experience that nourishes me and makes me more human.”

The Salesian Province of Argentina North expressed its gratitude for the commitment of every leader and volunteer who made the 10th edition possible.

Salesian missionaries in Argentina and around the globe provide education and social development programs to help poor youth and their families achieve self-sufficiency and have hope for a better life. Through schools, vocational and technical training programs, youth centers, medical clinics, and more, Salesians are ensuring youth have the services and programs they need to thrive.

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ANS – Argentina – ‘Patio Bosco’: a decade on the streets of Corrientes

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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CHILE

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Foundation, in a joint effort with various institutions and communities, delivered humanitarian aid to families who lost their homes after fires in Greater Concepción, Chile. Hundreds of people took part in the campaign to collect food, water, blankets, mattresses, toys and basic necessities, including diapers. In addition, money was raised and allocated for the creation of aid kits for families whose homes suffered serious damage.

A Salesian noted, “All of this was very organized. The collection was held at the Don Bosco Foundation in Santiago and the Teresian Institution School in Las Condes. From these collection centers, the aid was transported to the south thanks to the solidarity and support of trucks provided by families from the circus world, the Municipality of La Florida and the Compañía de Teatro del Biobío.”

Father Víctor Mora, president of the Don Bosco Foundation, coordinated the distribution in conjunction with the rector of the Salesian School in Concepción, the Municipality of Penco and community organization in Lirquén. He said, “This campaign is a concrete example of how solidarity, when organized, can be transformed into real hope.”

Don Bosco Foundation also expressed gratitude to the employees of the company Emaresa, who organized an internal collection, and to Commercial M&M Limitada, which collaborated for the donation of Tevere mattresses, a priority item.

In addition to providing humanitarian aid, Salesian missionaries provide education and social development programs for poor youth in Chile. Once finished with primary and secondary school, students can advance for higher education. Salesian technical schools cater to students who have dropped out of school and are seeking a second chance. In many programs, students complete their education while engaging in internships with local employers. This increases the students’ hands-on work experience and ability to gain livable wage employment after their studies are completed.

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ANS – Chile – Don Bosco Foundation campaign delivers aid to families in Concepción

Salesian Missions – Chile

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ZAMBIA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Sacred Heart community, located in Makeni, Lusaka, Zambia, celebrated the opening ceremony and blessing of the Don Bosco Higher Institute. This new educational center is dedicated to the education and support of local youth who are marginalized.

Presiding over the event were Father Innocent Bizimanathe, councilor for the East and Southern Africa Region, and Father Michael Mbandama, superior of the ZMB Province. Both expressed their deep gratitude to all those who made this dream possible, especially the donors whose generosity continues to support the Salesians.

In his speech, Fr. Mbandama thanked Fr. Bizimana for his dedication and guidance. Fr. Mbandama said, “Let us pray that this may truly be a center of education and hope for young people.”

Fr. Mbandama further noted the Salesian commitment to helping youth cultivate not only skills and knowledge, but also faith, values, and dignity. The meeting was also an invitation to pray for donors, past and present, who often support the mission behind the scenes.

Salesians in Zambia provide a range of social development programs and education to aid youth who are poor and at risk so they can have a healthy, productive life. Early education helps youth gain a foundation to allow them to later advance to skills training for employment. Basic needs are met along the way ensuring youth focus on their education.

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ANS – Zambia – A new education centre for young people in the ZMB Province

Salesian Missions – Zambia

UNICEF – Zambia

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THAILAND

(MissionNewswire) Students in grades 7-9, together with teachers from the primary and secondary education departments of Sarasit Phithayalai School, in the Ban Pong district in the Ratchaburi Province of Thailand, participated in a summer camp where they learned about environmental responsibility. This included an excursion to Ban Mai Chai Len, Khlong Khon in the Samut Songkhram Province.

A Salesian explained, “During the camp, themed ‘Green Minds, Bright Futures’, the students took part in numerous activities. The highlight of the event had students planting mangrove trees. The area is located at the confluence of the Mae Klong River and the Gulf of Siam, making it rich in aquatic life and an important nursery for wildlife. Planting mangroves helps to expand habitats and food sources, contributing to a more abundant and sustainable ecosystem.”

The Salesian added, “Mangroves are of great importance to the ecology, environment, society and economy of many countries. Involving the students in this activity is making them aware of their duty to take care of the earth and the environment.”

Salesian organizations in Thailand and around the globe are focused on environmentally friendly activities and education. Part of this was driven by Pope Francis’ 2020 Laudato Si’, which underlined the importance of education and training that will help youth foster environmental responsibility.

Salesian missionaries provide education and social programs in Thailand to give youth who are poor and disadvantaged an opportunity for a brighter future. The COVID-19 pandemic caused a sharp rise in the country’s “targeted poor” (those who hold state-issued welfare cards) as noted by the Thai People Map and Analytics Platform. Although the country had made strides in reducing poverty before the pandemic, improving nutrition and meeting the basic needs of its residents, inequality is still pervasive. More children are also dropping out of school, especially those who are not living with their parents.

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ANS – Thailand – ‘Green minds, bright futures’: Sarasit Phithayalai School students take care of our common home

Salesian Missions – Thailand

World Bank – Thailand

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SPAIN

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian University of Sarrià, located in Barcelona, Spain, has introduced a new optional teaching module in its engineering degree courses. This national-level initiative aims to broaden the professional skills of future engineers and strengthen the center’s education.

The course was launched following the observation that a growing number of graduates take on teaching-related tasks at some point in their professional careers. As explained by Noemí Ruíz, head of the research department and promoter of the project, the university has an excellent team of researchers that have made teaching this course possible.

The module has a highly practical approach. Students take internships in various educational centers, mainly Salesian-run, that help them have hands-on practical knowledge. The internships were structured in two phases, with students first observing the teaching process and then holding theoretical and practical sessions and workshops.

According to the Salesian university, the demand for the course exceeded expectations. Students enrolled for different reasons including a curiosity about teaching, the desire to open up new career paths and the recommendation of their academic tutors.

Alex Rojas, a mechanical engineering student who participated, highlighted the learning acquired during internships at educational centers. He said, “The skills acquired have a direct application in the world of work, beyond the educational sphere.”

The teaching staff has noted the impact students have had on vocational students, providing a direct insight into employment and becoming true academic role models. In some cases, university students have returned to the centers where they trained, now as trainee teachers.

Ruíz explained, “The time spent in the centers helped to motivate the students and show them that continuing their studies at university is a real possibility.” The feedback from the tutors has been very positive and one of the participants will soon be taking on teaching assignments, confirming the impact of the initiative.

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ANS – Spain – A new and pioneering teaching module at the Salesian University of Sarrià

Salesian Missions – Spain

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MADAGASCAR

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries are responding after Tropical Cyclone Gezani struck the city of Toamasina (Tamatave), on the east coast of Madagascar. With gusts reaching more than 180 miles an hour and torrential rains, the storm hit one of the most vulnerable areas of the country. Reports indicate that there are many dead, dozens injured and thousands left homeless, with large areas flooded.

The Salesian community, which has been in the city since 2018, suffered serious damage to the oratory, which welcomes about 550 youth every weekend. Also damaged were the Domenico Savio School, the Salesian parish and the infrastructure under construction for the future vocational training center.

“We have lost food and materials. The school canteen warehouse no longer exists,” explained Father Raharinjatovo Soloniaina Louis Patrick, parish priest in Tamatave, after assessing the damage on the ground.

Faced with this emergency, Salesians have launched an urgent project to meet immediate basic needs and to repair damaged infrastructure. The goal is to support 500 people and 50 families who have lost their homes through food distribution, essential medicines, free medical consultations and the construction of temporary shelters.

In addition, Salesians will repair their buildings’ roofs and educational and pastoral buildings that had damage, which is a priority to be able to resume activities with highly vulnerable youth.

In the Atsinanana region, where Tamatave is located, annual rainfall exceeds 3,000 mm (approximately 118 inches) and the area is frequently hit by tropical cyclones. Reconstruction will not only involve building walls, but also strengthening the resilience of communities who face this risk.

The Salesian Mission Office in Madrid is launching an appeal for solidarity in order to respond quickly to this disaster. This aid will make it possible to restore safe spaces for children’s education, ensure food security for affected families and support their recovery.

Amidst the destruction, Salesians will continue to provide support. A Salesian said, “We cannot leave our young people and their families alone at this time. They need food, shelter and hope.”

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Photo courtesy of Misiones Salesianas (via ANS article)

ANS – Madagascar – Cyclone Gezani devastates Tamatave, a city in eastern Madagascar, leaving thousands homeless

Salesian Missions – Madagascar

UNICEF – Madagascar

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EL SALVADOR

(MissionNewswire) The Salvador del Mundo Foundation (FUSALMO) in El Salvador has officially received platinum-level STEAM certification, the highest recognition awarded by the Latin American Society for Science and Technology through its Alfa-STEAM program.

STEAM education (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics), is similar to STEM but adds the arts to integrate creativity, design and critical thinking. This fosters more holistic, innovative and multidisciplinary problem-solving for future careers.

An award ceremony took place in January at FUSALMO’s headquarters in Soyapango, El Salvador, in the presence of María Lourdes Vela, from Educare El Salvador, who presented the official plaque to Father Pierre M. Vitelli.

A Salesian explained, “Since 2019, FUSALMO has undertaken significant challenges as a pioneer in STEAM education, building specialized educational spaces and implementing innovative methodologies. These efforts are evident in several achievements: organizing the country’s largest robotics competition, the STEAM Maker Challenge; participating in and gaining international recognition at the First Global Robotics World Championship; and recently obtaining certification.”

FUSALMO offers traditional and non-traditional educational opportunities for youth who are at risk. Through recreational programs, enrichment opportunities in the arts and music, vocational training, and more, youth are encouraged to stay off the streets, learn to cooperate and co-exist, and gain the skills they need to become productive, contributing members of a more peaceful society.

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ANS – El Salvador – FUSALMO receives Platinum certification as a STEAM institution

FUSALMO

Salesian Missions (USA) – FUSALMO

Salesian Missions – El Salvador

World Bank – El Salvador

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SPAIN

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Center in Deusto, a district in Bilbao, Spain, held an educational meeting focused on autism for teachers from various Salesian centers in the northern part of Spain’s St. James the Greater Province. The meeting took place over two days and combined reflection, knowledge and practical tools for educational action.

The workshop held for the teachers was devoted to a basic level of understanding of the autism spectrum, with the aim of helping participants to better understand people with autism, their way of perceiving the world, and communicating and relating to others. The second session offered practical strategies and tools for educational support, particularly in academic and school settings, for more accessible, understanding and inclusive environments. The workshop was facilitated by Marlene Horna, a specialist in autism and inclusive education.

One of the most important challenges for schools is ensuring the inclusion of students with special educational needs or disabilities or those who are in vulnerable situations. Without specific support, there is a risk of increasing exclusion rather than reducing it.

Elisa Gutiérrez Hernández, a teacher at CES Don Bosco and an expert in inclusion, noted, “An inclusive school must understand that each student is the sum of their interests, abilities and needs. Therefore, recognizing diversity means recognizing the very essence of each class and ensuring the full participation of all pupils. It is necessary to analyze in order to transform and to adapt so that everyone has a place, regardless of labels.”

Hernández added, “Building an inclusive school is not just a question of methodology, but also of perspective and culture. It involves a commitment to preparing a personalized learning experience, designed from the outset to take into account the unique characteristics of each individual in our classrooms. It means ensuring that everyone can learn and participate, because what really matters is sharing the learning experience and growing together.”

In another learning sessions, Salesians in Lugo took part in a course focused on the dynamic boxes teaching module held by teacher Montse Poyatos Dorado. During the day, participants discovered that dynamic boxes are part of an educational strategy that stands out for its flexible and versatile approach. Montse also introduced the STEPS methodology, which consists of breaking down complex learning into small steps, which must be structured so that students can progress at their own pace.

The approaches on autism and dynamic boxes will soon be available in other educational centers in the Salesian province.

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 those in poverty and offer workforce development opportunities to ensure an easier school to work transition.

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ANS – Spain – Salesian school teachers receive training in inclusive education

Salesian Missions – Spain

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BRAZIL

(MissionNewswire) Forty medical students from the Faculty of Medical Sciences of Santos recently concluded the 17th Academic Project for Assistance to Indigenous Populations, which took place in the Indigenous communities supported by the Salesians of the St. Alphonsus Liguori Province of Campo Grande, Brazil. The project provided health support for the Xavante and Boe Bororo communities.

Twenty students and two doctors were sent to Sangradouro while another 20 students and two doctors were in Meruri and São Marcos. These volunteers carried out various health screenings including blood pressure checks and blood sugar measurements, distributed medicines, and provided basic health care. Home visits were conducted to collect data and provide information on disease prevention.

The team in Sangradouro was welcomed by Father Joseph Tran Van Lich, a Salesian missionary in the community. Ricardo Paiva, the project’s social coordinator, said, “As has been the case for 17 years, our welcome at the mission in Sangradouro was simply wonderful.”

Activities also included distribution of sanitary pads, organization of hygiene kits and educational workshops. Lectures were given on oral hygiene, proper hand-washing and waste collection in the village. The children received toothbrushes, toothpaste and popcorn.

“We were able to combine health education with moments of care and joy, offering a playful and meaningful experience for the children and young people of the village,” explained Paiva.

In Meruri, the events began with the organization of medicines and hygiene products in the local dispensary. The students made home visits, organized waste collection in the village and participated in the oratory with the children. The team also promoted a workshop on animal abuse, distributed hygiene kits, and held workshops on alcohol, drug and sexual abuse.

The team provided similar services in São Marcos. Volunteers were introduced to the village chief Felix Tsiwê and carried out home visits and assistance in the dispensary. The team of students said, “We are deeply grateful to the doctors for their dedication to the project. We have learned a lot and the doctors were excellent.”

Paiva emphasized the importance of the experience. He explained, “We had the opportunity to experience a reality very different from our own and, despite this, we felt at home. We would like to express our deepest thanks to the entire Salesian mission of Sangradouro for welcoming us so warmly and supporting us. May this collaboration, built over 17 years, continue to be strong and last for many years to come.”

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ANS – Brazil – University students conclude 17th expedition after 11 days of healthcare assistance to indigenous populations in the Salesian Mission

Salesian Missions – Brazil

World Bank – Brazil

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RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Reception Center, located in Kigali, Rwanda, has installed a new high-efficiency solar power system, responding to critical energy needs while promoting environmental responsibility within the complex. The project was supported by the Salesian Missions Office in Turin, Italy.

Father Servilien Ufitamahoro, director, emphasized the need for this modernization, pointing out that previously the center had struggled to maintain a constant power supply with limited resources. To resolve these issues, the center collaborated with a company to implement modern technologies, which led to the installation of 24 solar panels and two advanced batteries.

The project has already produced measurable results. Solar energy now accounts for 30% of the electricity used by the center, leading to what Fr. Ufitamahoro describes as a significant improvement in daily operations.

In addition to the immediate logistical benefits, the initiative represents a commitment to environmental protection. Fr. Ufitamahoro noted that in the light of climate change, the adoption of renewable energy is essential to better care for the environment. Looking to the future, he hoped that the center will be able to switch to 100% solar energy.

Salesian missionaries provide a range of educational and social development services in Rwanda. Youth who are poor are able to access programs including health services, nutrition, education and general support services that help them to lead healthy productive lives. Salesians first arrived in the country in 1953. Today, there are six Salesian centers in Rwanda.

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ANS – Rwanda – The Don Bosco Reception Centre in Kigali adopts renewable energy by installing a new solar power system

Salesian Missions – Rwanda

UNICEF – Rwanda

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INDIA

(MissionNewswire) Bosco Boys Home, located in Mumbai, India, is working to address urgent health needs of migrants and disadvantaged families. The organization’s efforts are part of the broader Suraksha Project – Migrant Desk, in collaboration with the Spark Foundation and the NIIT Foundation. A free health camp was held to provide the community with essential medical care and access to government health programs.

A Salesian explained, “Ganpat Patil Nagar, where the camp was held, is a congested settlement where residents struggle daily with poor living conditions. The narrow streets remain muddy, especially in wet weather, and the lack of an adequate drainage system has created an unhygienic environment. Many families live in vulnerable conditions, with an increased risk of contracting diseases and limited access to affordable health care facilities.”

Suraksha Migrant Desk, an initiative by Don Bosco Snehalaya, supports people who migrate to cities and small towns in search of employment, as well as entire families who move together in search of a better future. Once in their new locations, migrants face injustice, mistreatment, harsh living conditions, poverty, exploitation, bonded labor and other challenging circumstances. The migrant help desk aims to address these challenges head-on by providing resources.

A Salesian explained, “It is our collective responsibility to address these challenges and work toward empowering our migrant communities so they too can enjoy the freedoms we often take for granted. We must also assist them in accessing their rightful share of government programs, empowering them to stand on their own feet. Suraksha Migrant Desk remains committed to reaching out to migrant families and individuals, providing support that fosters their upliftment, safety, security and development.”

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ANS – India – Home care: health, dignity and safety for Ganpat Patil Nagar

Salesian Missions – India

World Bank – India

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SOUTH SUDAN

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries with the St. Patrick Province in Ireland have been providing humanitarian aid, including food aid and education, for people who are internally displaced because of violence in South Sudan*. In Morobo, Salesians were able to provide 700 displaced families with basic food supplies that lasted for several weeks, despite the serious difficulties in the region.

In Morobo, teachers from St. Charles Lwanga Primary School have been providing support for people who are poor and vulnerable. The distribution of food was carried out in collaboration with local authorities, community leaders and humanitarian staff from the United Nations Regional Collaboration Center. In addition, the bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Yei attended the distribution of aid, emphasizing the Church’s continued support and solidarity with those affected in Morobo.

The beneficiaries expressed relief and gratitude after receiving the food parcels. “We had nothing left to eat,” said a mother of four children. “This food will help us survive. I pray that there will be more support and that peace will return so that we can go home.”

The crisis in Morobo is part of a wider humanitarian emergency in the country where millions of people remain displaced due to conflict and economic instability. South Sudan has faced recurring violence, forcing people to abandon their homes and livelihoods. Many of the displaced are women, children and the elderly, groups particularly at risk of malnutrition and poor health.

In addition to the distribution of food items, a key component of the program was the education provided to 21 teachers and 14 student representatives from St. Charles Lwanga School. The education focused on child protection and topics such as water, sanitation and hygiene. These topics are essential for promoting a safe, inclusive and healthy learning environment, especially in Morobo, where access to public services is limited.

Father Anthony Doss Leo Arokianathan, economer of the Salesian Delegation of South Sudan, reiterated the importance of partnerships in responding to the needs of the community. He thanked Misean Cara, an international missionary development movement based in Ireland, and the Church for their support of the mission.

These activities are part of the ongoing efforts of the Salesians and their partners to provide holistic support to communities affected by conflict and displacement in South Sudan. By combining immediate relief with education and capacity building, the Salesian community aims to empower communities to rebuild and thrive even in difficult circumstances.

The Salesians in Ireland said, “As conflict and economic crisis continue to devastate communities across South Sudan, it is our privilege to help provide assistance to the affected populations. We ask for your prayers and support for the displaced, to help bring hope in these difficult times.”

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Photo courtesy of Salesians of Don Bosco Ireland: https://www.salesiansireland.ie/story/supporting-idps-and-school-leaders-in-south-sudan/

ANS – South Sudan – Salesians Ireland support internally displaced persons and school leaders in South Sudan

Salesians of Ireland

Salesian Missions – South Sudan

*Any goods, services or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country 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.

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ZAMBIA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in Lusaka, Zambia, are helping girls and young women continue their education. A project helps young women who are forced to miss school periodically due to poverty and taboos surrounding menstrual hygiene. Through a series of targeted activities, the project aims to reduce school dropout rates, increase girls’ self-esteem, and promote lasting cultural change by supporting the production and distribution of reusable sanitary pads, accompanied by education and awareness courses.

Through the work of the Her and His Gift Foundation, set up by a group of girls and young women who attend the Don Bosco Youth Center in Lusaka, around 7,200 reusable sanitary pads have been produced and distributed, thereby also strengthening local skills and micro-entrepreneurship opportunities. The young women then attended courses on practical skills and personal hygiene.

Twenty workshops were also held in the cities of Lusaka, Kabwe, Chingola and Mansa, involving more than 8,000 students. In addition, awareness and community engagement campaigns were designed through school events, community meetings and social media activities to involve as many girls as possible.

A Salesian noted, “Thanks to the support of many benefactors, the project has succeeded in helping to improve school attendance, self-esteem and gender equality, as well as awareness of the impact of disposable products. Parents and teachers openly recognized that menstruation is one of the main causes of absenteeism and welcomed the proposal for reusable sanitary pads.”

Community schools proved to be the most effective way to reach the girls who are most vulnerable. Involving parents, educators, and community leaders at an early state is essential to reduce stigma and promote acceptance of the proposed solutions.

The project launched with the Her and His Gift Foundation demonstrates that simple, sustainable and youth-led solutions can bring about real and lasting change. It is not just about distributing a product, it is an intervention that restores dignity, protects the right to education and nurtures environmental awareness in the younger generation.

The Salesian Mission Office in Turin, Italy, highlighted that this project began in May 2025 and has made significant progress, thanks to the generosity of donors. They report, “With further support and a shared commitment between schools, families and communities, the experience gained in Zambia can become a model that can be replicated in other vulnerable communities. We are grateful for the donors who have supported this initiative.”

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ANS – Zambia – Restoring dignity and protecting the future of girls

Salesian Missions – Zambia

UNICEF – Zambia

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UNITED STATES

(MissionNewswire) Salesian Family Youth Center, located in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles, California, recently hosted high school senior students from Loyola High School who were looking to complete community service hours.

JC Montenegro, executive director of Salesian Family Youth Center, explained, “It all started with an email from Gabriela Gordillo-Banuelos, director of the Center for Service and Justice, saying that students in their final year at Loyola High School were looking for a place to do their compulsory community service hours. The students had to serve for three days, four hours a day, in the community, and she felt that the Salesian Family Youth Center was the ideal solution.”

Over the three days, the students thoroughly cleaned classrooms, polished the vans, painted, organized the spaces and spent meaningful time with the children. The students’ ability to step in and serve wherever needed reflected their strong character and sincere willingness to help.

The students were also invited to reflect on what they had learned and what they would commit to doing in the future. They spoke about the importance of practicing empathy and appreciating every moment, every opportunity, and every person they encounter. Many shared how even small interactions can have a powerful impact. Several students expressed a desire to continue serving others, particularly those from marginalized or immigrant communities.

Gabriela Gordillo-Banuelos’ previous connection with the Salesians made this partnership possible, demonstrating how long-term relationships and networking continue to create opportunities for service and impact.

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

ANS – United States – A service that builds community and shapes young hearts

Salesian Family Youth Center

Salesian Missions

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BRAZIL

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian-run Bartholomew Garelli Festive Oratory is a place of education, respite and fellowship for the youth of Goiânia, Brazil. Inaugurated in September 2024, the oratory provides youth with a place for sports, culture and educational activities. Held on Saturdays, the activities are free for youth aged 14-24.

Since its inception, the Bartholomew Garelli Oratory has seen growth in participation with more than 2,000 young people attending in 2025. Offering snacks and workshops such as futsal, volleyball, and basketball, the oratory has become part of the weekly routine for Goiânia’s youth coming from many different regions.

By offering participants a safe, educational, and fraternal environment, the oratory fulfils a role that goes beyond leisure. It’s a space for learning teamwork and peer engagement and for listening, guidance, and youth leadership. Youth gain new friendships, develop social-emotional skills and feel they belong to a community that believes in their potential.

Father Wagner Gama, rectory, said, “The Salesian Congregation did not begin with schools, parishes, or universities, but with the oratory. Don Bosco’s purpose was precisely to care for those who were poorest through this mission environment. When we strengthen oratories, we are strengthening what is at the beginning of Don Bosco’s work.”

Antônio Tavares, aged 16, likes the oratory because it is a place where he can have fun with friends. He explained, “The first time I came was because a friend of mine invited me, saying that the oratory was really cool. I came to play with him and now I come every Saturday because it really is a great place and a great time to spend with friends. There are snacks, and the courts are good quality. The educators are also very dedicated, which keeps the project going and improving every day.”

Caroline Matos, aged 16, has been coming to the oratory since 2024. She noted, “They welcomed me very well. It is a peaceful environment where the educators treat us as if we were their children. It’s amazing because we can come to play and talk. I feel a love that we don’t normally feel from other people. I love participating.”

Even those youth who have been involved in other Salesian activities in the region long before the oratory are benefiting. Pedro Santiago, aged 17, explained that he got to know the oratory when he participated in the CESAM Goiânia Socio-Learning Program. He said, “It’s very interactive here, with lots of interesting activities and sports. I really like it because it helps me stay in shape. I also get to spend time with my former coworkers and the teachers.”

According to Fr. Gama, the goal is to offer youth more opportunities, hope and paths to a better future. He concluded, “The Bartholomew Garelli Festive Oratory was a great pastoral initiative and is flourishing. For this year, we hope that it will be an even greater support to youth.”

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ANS – Brazil – The Bartholomew Garelli Festive Oratory promotes sports, culture, and education for the youth of Goiânia

Salesian Missions – Brazil

World Bank – Brazil

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UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

(MissionNewswire) Students with the Red Cross Club at Don Bosco Tech in Rosemead, California, organized a campaign to gather essential items for veterans in need. Thanks to the generosity of students, parents and school staff, over 2,100 essential items and other comfort items were collected.

After taking their school exams, a group of volunteers from the club loaded the packages into cars and delivered them to the Red Cross headquarters in Arcadia.

Victoria Phung, head of youth programs at the Red Cross, thanked the school for its valuable annual contribution. She said, “We are fortunate to have Don Bosco Tech to count on. These young people are among our best allies in helping our veterans.”

Don Bosco students around the globe frequently give back to their communities and other communities in need. Working in more than 130 countries, Salesian missionaries have created a vast network of primary, secondary, vocational and technical schools serving youth who are poor or disadvantaged. With a focus on education and workforce development, Salesians worldwide provide youth valuable resources to aid them in finding livable wage employment.

Don Bosco Tech in Rosemead combines a rigorous college preparatory program with technology focused education. The innovative science, engineering, technology and math curriculum allows students to exceed university admission requirements while completing extensive integrated coursework in one of several applied science and engineering fields.

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ANS – United States – A solidarity campaign by Don Bosco Tech in favour of the most disadvantaged

Don Bosco Technical Institute

Salesian Missions

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Faculty of Oenology and Food Science, located in the Salesian House in Rodeo del Medio, Mendoza, Argentina, has been a benchmark in oenology and the fruit and vegetable industry. The school has distinguished graduates and degree holders who are prominent at the national and international level in the wine-making industry.

Father José Cordera, rector, noted, “This recognition is the result of hard work, strong commitment, constant support and responsible management. Every day, Salesians and the entire educational team seek to support the students in their studies.”

The key to the school’s success lies in its comprehensive education where knowledge is gained by hands-on work in vineyards, olive groves, state-of-the-art wineries, a canning factory, laboratories and professional sensory analysis rooms. Students and teachers go through the entire production process together, from harvesting to commercialization and marketing.

Don Bosco Faculty has won numerous awards for its wine making. Last year, Don Bosco Faculty was at the top of prominent wine makers in Latin America, offering a wide variety of products that have won prestigious international competitions and an olive-growing project that has placed Don Bosco extra virgin olive oil among the best in the world.

The Don Bosco Faculty is part of the long history of the Salesian Rodeo del Medio House, which has been dedicated to training wine professionals since 1901. On Oct. 31, 1965, the Don Bosco Faculty of Oenology and Food Science was officially founded, which became the first institution of higher studies in the wine sector in Latin America. This grew to meet the need of bringing greater professionalism and academic training to those in charge of the wine industry.

Since then, graduates in oenology, the fruit and vegetable industry, food technology, and the sommelier profession have been trained and represent the faculty in different areas of the country and the world.

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ANS – Argentina – The Don Bosco Faculty in Rodeo del Medio is recognised as the most awarded educational institution in Latin America

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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CAMBODIA

(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.

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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

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(MissionNewswire) The Youth Ministry Sector of the Salesian Congregation launched a new global campaign titled #DBSchoolsGoGreen, aimed at promoting ecological awareness and sustainable practices across Salesian educational institutions worldwide. The initiative was officially announced by Father Rafael Bejarano, general councilor for youth ministry, through a letter addressed to all youth ministry delegates in the various Salesian provinces.

In the letter, Fr. Bejarano recalls the mandate of the 29th General Chapter, which calls on every Salesian province to “promote formation in integral ecology and the ecological education of young people.” He noted that Salesian schools represent an ideal starting point for translating this commitment into concrete action.

To support schools in this journey toward sustainability, Fr. Bejarano has proposed adopting the UNESCO Green School Quality Standard. This framework provides concrete guidelines to help schools become environmentally sustainable. It is well suited to Salesian schools as it actively involves not only students and teachers but the entire educative-pastoral community.

The UNESCO Green School Quality Standard offers a comprehensive set of guidelines and actions for greening schools and other learning environments. It identifies four core areas for implementing sustainability principles and ecological action. These include school governance, facilities and operations, teaching and learning, and community engagement. For each of these areas, the UNESCO manual proposes specific actions that school communities can undertake.

Concluding his letter, Fr. Bejarano said, “It would be excellent if all the schools in the province could launch this program during the present year 2026. Ensuring that all our schools #DBSchoolsGoGreen through the use of the Green School Quality Standard is one of the priorities I invite you to focus on in the year ahead.”

The #DBSchoolsGoGreen campaign is being coordinated across the Salesian congregation by the Don Bosco Green Alliance. The initiative has already been received with enthusiasm in several provinces.

Salesian Brother Lucas Mario Mautino, youth ministry delegate for the Argentina North Province, said, “We welcome with joy the #DBSchoolsGoGreen 2026 campaign as a concrete sign of our pastoral commitment to young people and to the care of our Common Home, in full harmony with Don Bosco’s dream and the Church’s call to an integral ecology that educates, sensitizes, and transforms.”

Don Bosco Green Alliance is the global platform for ecological initiatives and activities, carried out by the Salesians of Don Bosco.  Launched in 2018, Don Bosco Green Alliance is today an active network where youth from Salesian institutions and organizations exchange ideas and work together to address the environmental challenges the world is facing.

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Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Green Alliance

Don Bosco Green Alliance

Don Bosco Green Alliance – RMG – Youth Ministry Sector launches #DBSchoolsGoGreen

Salesian Missions

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ECUADOR

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in Ecuador held a medical brigade in the Achuar community of Pumpuentsa to address health concerns of the local Indigenous population. The event was organized by the Salesian Community of Wasakentsa in collaboration with the Anaía Mission of Cuenca, and led by former volunteer Emily Carrión.

In Pumpuentsa, the volunteer medical staff provided assistance to community members suffering from illnesses such as the flu and coughs. Assistance was provided by 10 doctors from the University of Cuenca, various organizations and the city of Quito, with the support of the Seguir las Huellas Foundation.

Another group of 18 youth traveled to the Achuar communities of Karakam, Kurinua, Wasurak, Patukmay, and Ipiak, where they shared the Christmas message and delivered donations to families and youth.

A Salesian explained, “During an evaluation and feedback session, the young volunteers shared their experiences in the different communities. Local community members also expressed their gratitude for the donations received and the medical assistance provided. Special thanks for the Salesian community in Taisha for welcoming the participants before their trip and also on their return, offering them accommodation.”

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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ANS – Ecuador – Achuar communities receives medical assistance during an awareness-raising event organised by the Wasakentsa Community and the Anaía Mission

Salesian Missions – Ecuador

UNICEF – Ecuador

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ECUADOR

(MissionNewswire) A campaign launched by Salesian missionaries in Ecuador has proven to help support food security for the Shuar communities in the areas of Yaupi and Miazal, in the Ecuadorian Amazon. A significant number of plastic containers with airtight lids have been collected and distributed to help families, who are living without electricity and accessible safe drinking water, to better preserve food and water.

A Salesian noted, “This may seem like a simple step to help these families, but it’s proving incredibly effective. These airtight containers are preventing food spoilage and contamination by animals and improving nutritional access, especially for children.”

The campaign is ongoing and some containers are awaiting delivery in certain areas. These will be delivered when Salesians visit the region as part of the pastoral and community work undertaken by Salesian missionaries in Yaupi.

Father Fabián Lozada, parish priest in Yaupi, expressed his deep gratitude to all the donors whose support made it possible to get closer to the goal of helping more than 500 Shuar families. He also thanked them for the additional donations of sweets, clothes and toys, which brought joy to many children in the communities visited.

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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ANS – Ecuador – Solidarity campaign for Shuar families proving highly successful

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ETHIOPIA

(MissionNewswire) Five young innovators from Don Bosco Gambella in Ethiopia* are transforming agriculture through their start-up, Afri Tech Eng. All five youth are graduates of Don Bosco Gambella, and their journey from student to start-up reflects the values and skills they learned through their education.

Afri Tech Eng has been tasked with designing and manufacturing essential agricultural machinery for local farming communities. These machines were entirely designed and manufactured in Salesian workshops and will be distributed across nine sub-districts of Gambella, helping to boost agricultural productivity through technology that is both locally relevant and affordable.

Father Lijo Vadakkan, director of Don Bosco Gambella, expressed his deep appreciation for the young innovators and their work. He said, “What we have seen over the past two months is a clear example of what young minds can achieve when focus, dedication and hard work come together.”

Salesians have been operating Don Bosco Gambella for 51 years, providing education and support to the local community. They work to ensure that youth have the education and skills needed to find and retain long term employment. Students are also encouraged to use their skills to improve their local communities.

Ethiopia is one of the poorest countries in the world with more than 38% of its population living in poverty, according to Feed the Future. Close to 85% of the country’s workforce is employed in agriculture, but frequent droughts severely affect the agricultural economy leaving more than 12 million people chronically, or at least periodically, food insecure. In addition, more than two-thirds of the population is illiterate.

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ANS – Ethiopia – From the classroom to the workshop: young innovators promote local agricultural solutions in Gambella

Salesian Missions – Ethiopia

UNICEF – Ethiopia

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country 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.

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RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries are challenging gender stereotypes in education in Rwanda. For years, technical and vocational education in the country has steered young women into subjects that did not require physical strength. However, the four-year project “Gender Matters for Green TVET” at Don Bosco Gatenga and Don Bosco Muhazi is creating a pathway for young women to succeed in traditionally male-dominated sectors such as construction, electricity and plumbing.

Although the initial goal was to ensure that at least 30% of students were young women, the results far exceeded expectations. In the 2022-2023 school year, only 60 young women were enrolled at Don Bosco Gatenga, while in 2024-2025 that number rose to 209 out of a total of 533 students.

This growth was supported by the construction of a dormitory for young women that offered safe spaces for self-care, directly increasing the confidence and academic performance of these students.

Two students who completed their studies in electrical engineering received scholarships for advanced education. One of them traveled to Ghana to specialize in solar energy and will return to Rwanda to teach short courses, while the other is currently pursuing university studies in Sweden.

At Don Bosco Muhazi, the project has helped more than 100 students, including single mothers, to engage in agriculture and livestock farming. Graduates have received financial aid and livestock to overcome personal difficulties, while 15 other graduates have already started their own agricultural initiatives.

A Salesian noted, “Recognizing that education requires more than just books, the project has provided counseling for trauma and distress to more than 50 young women and financial assistance to 30. The program is also helping these students connect with job opportunities to ensure that they are able to find and retain long-term employment.”

Around 80% of those enrolled at Don Bosco Muhazi are now involved in entrepreneurship programs and are equipped with tools such as hoes and livestock and trained by financial institutions to manage their business ventures.

The work is thanks to the collaboration of the Austrian Development Cooperation, Jugend Eine Welt and the Salesians of Don Bosco.

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ANS – Rwanda – Breaking down barriers: transforming gender issues in technical and vocational education and training

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UNICEF – Rwanda

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(MissionNewswire) The Salesian missionaries in Lviv, Ukraine*, are celebrating the growing success of the Pokrova AMP soccer team made up of youth who have undergone limb amputations during the war. What began two years ago as a small Salesian initiative has become a movement of hope. Today, there are more than 15 AMP soccer centers in the country with 300 youth players. Another Salesian team, the Tytany, was formed in Zhytomyr. A third Salesian team is in the process of forming.

The Ukrainian Soccer Federation organized the first AMP soccer championship with games taking place between August and December 2025. The Salesian Pokrova AMP team won the championship in this inaugural event. The official award ceremony took place in the presence of the minister of youth and sport and the minister for veterans. With the victory, the team will participate in the EAFF AMP Soccer Champions League in June 2026, while the Tytany took third place in its league.

Upon their return to Lviv, the team was officially welcomed by Mayor Andriy Sadovyi, who celebrated the historic victory together with the players. The team was also recognized as “Team of the Year of the City of Lviv”.

A Salesian explained, “Beyond sporting victories, the heart of this project is deeply Salesian. Working with these young people is not just a matter of sport, but a mission of human and spiritual rehabilitation. These young former soldiers and war amputees find in the Salesian centers a spirit of welcoming, family, support in difficult times and a new perspective on life. It is touching to see how young people from all corners of Ukraine travel hundreds of kilometers to be part of it and participate regularly in training sessions.”

Salesians thank the Salesian Mission Office in Bonn, Germany, which has supported the annual maintenance of sports activities and the Salesian Mission Office in Turin, Italy, which supported the soccer field where players train and practice. Further, Salesians thank the Salesian Mission Office in Beromünster, Switzerland, which has been helpful in the education of the players. Salesians also extend their gratitude to all the Salesian Mission offices and other benefactors who have supported and promoted these inclusive activities.

Salesians are now working on the creation of a large Sports and Rehabilitation Center for youth who have lost limbs in the war and for the children of the existing Salesian sports club.

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ANS – Ukraine – The History of Salesian AMP Football in Ukraine: a victory of hope and rehabilitation

Salesian Missions

UNHCR – Ukraine

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country 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.

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COLOMBIA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Child Jesus Center, located in the San Pedro Claver Province of Bogotá, Colombia, organized an event for the more than 30 women, single mothers and entrepreneurs, who received their certification after training.

The women completed training programs on gender and employability as well as entrepreneurship and business culture. The event was attended by the heads of the different projects and Father Leopoldo Gómez, provincial economer, who shared in this significant moment for the participants.

A Salesian said, “This training not only strengthened their professional and entrepreneurial skills, but also contributed to their personal growth, the recognition of their rights, and the development of an entrepreneurial culture oriented toward building dignified and sustainable lives.”

These programs are the result of the collaborative work of the Salesian Employment Bank, with the support of the German development agency BMZ and Don Bosco Mondo, in partnership with the Social Pastoral Ministry of the Salesian Child Jesus Center, the Salesian University Foundation and the Youth Service Foundation.

The work of Salesian missionaries in Colombia is internationally recognized. Just over 34% of Colombians are living below the poverty line. Although Colombia is among the world’s emerging economies, more than three out of 10 Colombians still live in poor conditions.

One in five children in the country has no access to education. Many orphaned youth live in poverty and have lost their parents to natural disasters, the HIV/AIDS epidemic and other diseases, war, or domestic issues. Some children remain living with a single parent, struggling to survive, and are often pulled out of school to earn income for the remaining family. Other youth live in shelters or on the streets.

By providing education, workforce development services and social programs across Colombia, Salesian missionaries are working to empower youth and women to give them a chance at a better life.

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ANS – Colombia – Women transforming their future: education, entrepreneurship and hope

Salesian Missions – Colombia

World Bank – Colombia

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Ceferino Namuncurá School, located in Salta, Argentina, has transformed the school garden through the “Everything is Connected” project. Inspired by the words of the late Pope Francis, the project educated youth in ecology while promoting responsible habits, youth leadership and learning.

A Salesian noted, “One of the central elements of the project was the construction of a rainwater collection roof made from recycled plastic bottles, along with a wall of eco-bricks produced by the students themselves. The campaigns to collect, separate waste, and reuse materials involved the entire community including students, teachers, families and school staff.”

Practical workshops, led by teachers and an engineer, allowed students to actively participate in placing posts, assembling bases, designing gutters, and making eco-bricks. Each technical challenge became an opportunity to learn from experience, integrate curriculum content and strengthen collaborative work.

The Salesian added, “Students from preschool, elementary school and the high school collaborated in the creation of a mural made from recycled bottle caps depicting Pope Francis and the spirit of Laudato Si’. This collective work, created with patience and creativity, expresses the conviction that even the smallest elements — such as a bottle cap — can acquire new value when they are given new meaning through care and hope. The mural has become a permanent reminder that environmental education is not only a practice, but also a spiritual and community gesture.”

With the project finished, the space has been transformed into an open-air classroom where students can learn surrounded by plants, colors and messages that encourage ecological responsibility. Rainwater harvesting will enable sustainable practices, while daily contact with nature will strengthen the connection to the earth and the spirituality that inspires the project.

The Salesian concluded, “The ‘Everything is Connected’ project reaffirms that caring for our Common Home is an educational, community-based, and deeply Salesian act. It is a gesture that unites faith, science, creativity and service, teaching youth that transforming the world begins with transforming one’s own environment.”

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Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Green Alliance

Don Bosco Green Alliance – “Everything is Connected”: An eco-project at Ceferino Namuncurá School, Argentina

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

(MissionNewswire) The Boys and Girls with Don Bosco Network closed the 40th year of work in the Dominican Republic in 2025, while also celebrating 90 years of Salesian work in the country. Today, the network has 12 local centers in the National District, Santo Domingo East, Barahona, La Vega, Jarabacoa and Mao, supporting more than 2,400 youth each day. Its programs include family support, education, technical training, youth leadership, health programs, environmental initiatives, sports and art.

Salesians held a Catholic Mass and Christmas concert in celebration. The Mass was presided over by Father José Pastor Ramírez, provincial of the Salesians in the Antilles, in collaboration with 15  Salesian priests from local Salesian centers.

In his homily, Fr. Ramírez explained that a country may have mountains, rivers and roads, but without bridges its people remain isolated. The bridge, he said, is not the destination or the goal, but it makes it possible for life to move forward.

In this way, he affirmed that the Salesian presence in the Dominican Republic has been a bridge of light that has allowed thousands of youth to pass to the other side toward opportunities, dignity and hope. Fr. Ramírez expressed his deep gratitude to the collaborators, volunteers, donors and institutional partners who have supported this mission over four decades.

On behalf of the Salesian Congregation, he urged the whole of society to renew its commitment to Dominican children and youth, recalling that there are still many gaps to close and that the country needs to continue strengthening spaces of care, education and support.

The Boys and Girls with Don Bosco Network began in 1985 as Canillitas con Don Bosco (Newspaper boys with Don Bosco) and has evolved, responding to the changing risks faced by youth. The formalization of the network in 1998, the territorial expansion, the addition of reception centers and the creation of the Don Bosco Foundation in 2013, have consolidated a comprehensive platform of care and social support.

Nearly half of youth under the age of 18 live in poverty in the Dominican Republic, according to UNICEF. Although the country’s economy has been steadily improving, the country’s poor people still struggle to get enough food to eat and to access safe drinking water and adequate housing. Only 30% of youth finish primary school and only 18% finish secondary school on time. Schools are in poor shape with nearly half having no access to safe drinking water and more than 60% lacking adequate bathroom facilities.

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ANS – Dominican Republic – Joint celebration of 90 years of Salesian presence and 40 years of Muchachos con Don Bosco

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BRAZIL

(MissionNewswire) Father José Marcos de Oliveira led a mission of 14 people to help support the Indigenous Xavante people in the Salesian Indigenous Missions in Mato Grosso, Brazil. The team went to São Marcos, a place where the Salesians have lived and worked for seven years. The missionaries brought with them about 120 baskets of basic foodstuffs, along with clothes, shoes and toys.

Missionaries visited people who are sick and got to know the community, including close to 100 youth who attend the oratory. The missionaries also distributed clothes collected in the parish, as well as food baskets to three of the local villages.

One of the volunteers was José Nivaldo, age 21 and a parishioner of St John Bosco Church. He said, “After experiencing everything that was presented to us there, now that I return to routine, I can state that it was a wonderful, unique experience. It is as if Jesus really took us away from the daily grind and took us to a mountain full of work, prayer and deep experiences.”

Nivaldo added that he did not imagine that he would enjoy the experience so much. The people who shared Mission Week made a difference including the friendships he made along the way. The smiles he witnessed and the games he played with the children brought joy and transformed his outlook.

Just over 15% of Brazilians live in poverty, with the majority living in the rural northeast of the country, according to the World Bank. While Brazil is making positive changes, there are still large gaps between the poor and the rich, and issues of income inequality and social exclusion remain at the root of poverty.

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ANS – Brazil – Young people from St John Bosco Parish carry out a mission with the Xavante people in Mato Grosso

Salesian Missions – Brazil

World Bank – Brazil

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CHAD

(MissionNewswire) Youth in Chad are faced with numerous challenges including lack of access to basic infrastructure and education. Chad is experiencing a deep social and economic crisis. Millions of refugees have been trying to escape to Sudan since 2023. Those who remain have to face many obstacles, including the lack of electricity. This is a problem also experienced by the more than 100,000 inhabitants of Sarh, the third largest city in the country.

A Salesian said, “In many places around the world, electricity is an obvious fact of life whose importance is only felt when an occasional brief blackout reminds us of the fragility of all digital systems and modern societies. But there are still many places where this primary benefit is not taken for granted, and its absence puts a mortgage on the human development of young people and societies as in the Salesian mission in Sarh, Chad.”

The Salesian added, “In Chad, it is normal to go to school under a big tree. The image may seem poetic and evocative, but in reality it brings about immense difficulties. If it rains, everything comes to a halt. The Salesian center in Sarh has made it possible for the students to have covered spaces available. But when it gets dark, the children struggle to finish their homework and the older children cannot use the computers.”

Yannick, age 15, attends the local Don Bosco Center every day. He explained, “I often come here to the Salesians. For me, it means being able to read and study, because here there is a well-stocked library for books that we don’t have at home and where I can deepen my culture. There is also a computer lab where I can do school work. Unfortunately, there is often a lack of electricity. That is here at the Don Bosco Center and in the whole city. There is no light and that slows everything down.”

Pierre Claver Agbetiafan, Salesian coadjutor and director of the mission orator, confirmed the challenges. “When we don’t have electricity we sometimes turn on the electric generator, but it is too expensive and diesel is hard to find.”

To help rectify the situation, Don Bosco Nel Mondo Foundation, located in Rome, has devised a significant project. Salesians want to install 40 solar panels on the Don Bosco Center, which would guarantee clean and stable energy for the 500 children enrolled in the nursery and primary schools, for the 50 youth studying computer science, and to the approximately 5,000 girls and boys who attend the youth center. The organization is seeking funding at this time so youth like Yannick will be able to study properly.

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ANS – Chad – The future of young people in Sarh is waiting for some light

Don Bosco Nel Mondo Foundation

Salesian Missions – Chad

World Food Programme – Chad

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ITALY

(MissionNewswire) Salesians hosted a Christmas luncheon for people in need at the San Domenico Savio Hall in Valdocco, Italy. The December event was the fifth year the luncheon was held. The luncheon is promoted by the Caritas – Maria Ausiliatrice volunteer group of more than 40 volunteers, 20 of whom led the initiative. The luncheon was attended by about 100 people from the city of Turin, many of whom attend the Monday evening canteen that the group organizes in the city center.

One of the volunteers said, “It was a moment of conviviality designed to offer not only a hot meal, but above all an opportunity for meeting, listening and fraternity in view of Christmas.”

As is the case every year, the volunteers and guests sit together and strengthen the relationships built during the year. The meal was served by novices currently in formation at Colle Don Bosco. The 20 young novices were aided by six Salesians to create a festive and family atmosphere in the spirit of Don Bosco.

The lunch was also made possible thanks to the valuable support of various local businesses and various benefactors. The lunch ended with the exchange of greetings among all those present, and all guests were given a small Christmas present.

A Salesian said, “With this festive lunch, the Caritas – Maria Ausiliatrice group renewed its commitment to the poorest, certain that simple gestures of sharing can kindle hope among all and build more solidarity and fraternal communities.”

Salesian programs across Italy help youth who are unable to attend school and others who drop out to work at the few jobs available to them. A growing number of children work as laborers on farms and others have turned to the sex trade to help support their families. Those in poverty often live without adequate shelter, hot water, regular meals and health care.

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Italy – The fifth ‘Christmas Lunch with the poor’ in Valdocco: a feast of sharing and hope

Salesian Missions – Italy

World Bank – Italy

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CAMBODIA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries are responding with humanitarian aid after recent clashes in Cambodia. Salesians and students have been impacted. Don Bosco School in Poipet closed on Dec. 9 as fighting along the Cambodia–Thailand border escalated. The closure came amid one of the most serious flare ups in recent years, with heavy clashes displacing thousands of civilians on both sides. The school remains closed.

According to Cambodian authorities, border provinces such as Banteay Meanchey and Oddar Meanchey have seen large scale evacuations, with families fleeing artillery fire and aerial strikes. According to current estimates, nearly 500,000 people have been displaced across the country. While some families remain close to the border, others have moved deeper inland in search of security and assistance. The strain on host communities and local infrastructure is evident, with rising food prices, limited water supplies and growing health concerns adding to the hardship.

A Salesian team met families of students and staff affected by the violence. Many people have been living for weeks in makeshift shelters, government school buildings, or overcrowded camps after abandoning their homes near the border. Their displacement has disrupted education, livelihoods, and access to basic services.

During the visit, the team distributed food, basic household supplies, hygiene materials and small treats for the children. The gesture aimed to offer immediate relief while also providing reassurance and emotional support to families facing uncertainty and loss.

Conditions in several camps remain challenging. Families reported limited access to safe drinking water, often forcing them to purchase water at a high cost. Safety concerns, including snakes entering shelters at night, have heightened fear, particularly among children and the elderly. Health risks linked to poor sanitation, overcrowding and restricted access to medical care were also observed.

A Salesian said, “Don Bosco Cambodia is appealing to the international community, partner organizations and benefactors to assist families of displaced students — especially those now living in temporary camps or without stable housing. Support is urgently needed for food, shelter, transportation, school materials and psychosocial assistance.”

The Salesian added, “The Salesian community also renews its call for peace, urging all parties to prioritize the protection of civilians, especially children, and to pursue dialogue to end the violence. Don Bosco Cambodia emphasizes that education, safety and human dignity must remain above conflict.”

Salesians in other regions of Cambodia began to mobilize support as well. Salesian houses in Phnom Penh, Kep, Sihanoukville, Battambang, and Poipet have begun raising funds to provide food, shelter, and essential support to displaced students and their relatives. Local Don Bosco institutions are preparing contingency plans to assist learners whose schooling may be disrupted by the crisis, ensuring access to meals, transportation and pastoral care.

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.

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ANS – Cambodia – Don Bosco Poipet Closed as Border Conflict Displaces Thousands

ANS – Cambodia – Airstrike near Poipet heightens civilian hardship; Salesians mobilize Support

ANS – Cambodia: Don Bosco visits Families Displaced by Border Conflict in Siem Reap and Uddor Meanchey

Salesian Missions – Cambodia

World Bank – Cambodia

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ECUADOR

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Costa Norte Project Foundation in Ecuador, in collaboration with the Mary Help of Christians Formation Center and the St. John Bosco Community of Esmeraldas, has officially launched a new project aimed at strengthening women’s skills, leadership and entrepreneurship. The project includes the participation of the Salesian Province and the Del Valle Foundation.

Aiming to empower women entrepreneurs and those in vulnerable situations, the project will offer social support programs, education and the creation of real opportunities for improving their living conditions.

Salesians first hosted a “Women Entrepreneurs Project Start-up Workshop”, where the basic framework of the project, administrative guidelines, the available budget, the coordination model and the implementation path were presented. Additional workshops will be held at other locations to reach more women for technical skills, leadership, personal development and basic finance training. Students will also learn skills and be provided with tools to start small businesses with sustainability and vision for the future.

A Salesian said, “The launch of this project represents a firm commitment to women’s empowerment and social inclusion. Costa Norte Salesian Project Foundation and its allies seek to generate opportunities that transform the lives of entrepreneurial and vulnerable women, providing them with the tools to contribute to the local economy and strengthen the social fabric of communities.”

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.

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ANS – Ecuador – Project launched to strengthen women’s leadership and entrepreneurship in Esmeraldas

Salesian Missions – Ecuador

UNICEF – Ecuador

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

(MissionNewswire) The Stay with Us Shelter, located in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, gives youth who have been living on the street a home, family, school and a safe space to grow up. In December, the shelter celebrated 25 years of dedicated service to those most in need, and it continues to welcome youth in situations of vulnerability and abuse.

As the shelter grew so did its services. The shelter now includes a day program for youth who need support on a daily basis. The shelter also offers school support, educational workshops, recreational spaces, and psychological support for both youth and their families.

Several events marked the anniversary. A celebration was held on Dec. 5 for those currently living in the home, followed by a Dec. 7 meeting with former residents of the home that included a Catholic Mass and continued with moments of sharing among current and former residents. On Dec. 8, the whole community celebrated the work of the shelter and the impact it has had on youth and families in the region.

At the conclusion of the celebrations, the Salesians at the center said, “We carry on and will continue our mission forming good Christians and upright citizens, as St. John Bosco taught us.”

Nearly half of youth under the age of 18 live in poverty in the Dominican Republic, according to UNICEF. Although the country’s economy has been steadily improving, the country’s poor people still struggle to get enough food to eat and to access safe drinking water and adequate housing. Only 30% of youth finish primary school and only 18% finish secondary school on time. Schools are in poor shape with nearly half having no access to safe drinking water and more than 60% lacking adequate bathroom facilities.

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ANS – Dominican Republic – The ‘Quédate con Nosotros’ (Stay with us) hostel celebrates 25 years of service and hope

Salesian Missions

UNICEF – Dominican Republic

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ITALY

(MissionNewswire) Mission Don Bosco, the Salesian Mission Office in Turin, Italy, was once again the recipient of support from the “Christmas Concert in the Vatican”, now in its 33rd year. Salesians provide the support generated to the education of youth in Côte-Matève, near Pointe-Noire in the Republic of the Congo*.

Côte-Mateve has a high population density, but lacks drinking water, electricity, school facilities, health centers and public transport systems. Youth, who represent the largest segment of the population, see their rights systematically denied. For many, attending school is a inaccessible and the current school network is unable to respond to the growing demand. There are too few buildings, insufficient teachers and inadequate environments.

In Côte-Matève, Salesians want to build a new primary school, capable of accommodating at least 350 students, aged 6-12, who come from socio-economically vulnerable backgrounds. The school will provide them with a better learning environment, a safe structure and appropriate teaching materials. The school complex will include 10 classrooms with a capacity of 35 students per classroom, offices, a teachers’ lounge and coordination spaces.

Ngimbi is one of the 350 children who will be housed in the primary school that Don Bosco’s missionaries want to build in Côte-Matève.

Father Daniel Antúnez, president of Mission Don Bosco, said, “Ngimbi is faced with new prospects. He was given promises in the past that were not kept, but now he sees that he can overcome his vulnerable condition. It is up to us to allow him to cross that invisible wall that separates him from hope and to ensure continuity of care. We thank everyone who participated in the Christmas concert and all donors who are showing boys like Ngimbi there is hope for the future.”

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ANS – Italy – Christmas Concert at the Vatican 2025: with Missioni Don Bosco support for the children of Côte-Matève, in Congo Brazzaville

Salesian Missions – Italy

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country 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.

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ECUADOR

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian-run Father Emilio Gambirasio Psychological Center celebrated its 60th anniversary, highlighting its service to youth, adults and families in Ecuador. The celebration brought together authorities from the Salesian Polytechnic University and the Salesian Province of Ecuador, as well as professionals from the center, partner institutions and members of the academic community.

The event was a moment of remembrance and gratitude toward the work started by Fr. Gambirasio, a Salesian pioneer focusing on psychology and education in Ecuador. His vision was to consider psychological assistance a right and not a luxury.

During her speech, María José Boada, director of the center, recalled Fr. Gambirasio’s profound conviction that “psychological help is a fundamental necessity for the full development of people.” She also pointed out that the center is an innovative space in vocational guidance and psychometrics, thanks to Father José Espinoza and a team of professionals.

Father Juan Cárdenas, rector of the Salesian Polytechnic University, emphasized the center’s contribution as a strategic ally of the academic world. He called it a “living laboratory where theory dialogues with practice and where academic training grows in relevance and depth.”

Further, Fr. Cárdenas noted that the center has made it possible to develop psychological intervention projects in different areas of the country and support highly sought-after degree courses such as psychology and clinical psychology. He also stressed that the experience of the Quito center inspired the recent opening of a new center in Cuenca.

As part of the 60th anniversary celebrations, the Municipality of the Metropolitan District of Quito awarded the center a recognition for its history, social impact and contribution to the emotional well-being of its citizens.

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ANS – Ecuador – ‘Fr Emilio Gambirasio’ Psychological Centre: 60 years dedicated to transforming lives

Salesian Missions – Ecuador

UNICEF – Ecuador

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ITALY

(MissionNewswire) Borgo Ragazzi Don Bosco in Rome, one of several Salesian vocational training centers across Italy, is using renewable energy thanks to a large photovoltaic system that was recently installed as a result of collaboration with Banco dell’Energia and Edison. The project, known as “Sustainable Energy for Youth”, was inaugurated with Mayor Roberto Gualtieri, heads of Banco dell’Energia and Edison, and the Salesian community attending.

The Borgo Ragazzi Don Bosco sustainability project is a pilot project and the first in a series of environmental interventions for Salesian centers in central Italy. The aim is to transform Salesian centers into hubs of shared sustainability, where the production of clean energy becomes a tool to free up resources that will be reinvested in education and support for the most vulnerable.

The project involved the installation of two separate photovoltaic systems to power the day care center, church, and theater and vocational training center.

Father Emanuele De Maria, rector of Borgo Ragazzi Don Bosco, said, “For us, this project is much more than a new state-of-the-art facility. It is a cultural investment in the area. Thanks to the newly established system, we strengthen our commitment as promoters of environmental sustainability and as supporters of social initiatives benefiting the most vulnerable young people.”

For Gualtieri, this project demonstrates how environmental and social objectives can work together, enabling other projects to be launched in the Centocelle and Quarticciolo neighborhoods.

Salesian programs across Italy help youth who are unable to attend school and others who drop out to work at the few jobs available to them. A growing number of children work as laborers on farms and others have turned to the sex trade to help support their families. Those in poverty often live without adequate shelter, hot water, regular meals and health care.

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Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Green Alliance

Don Bosco Green Alliance – Borgo Ragazzi Don Bosco shifts to Renewable Energy

Salesian Missions – Italy

World Bank – Italy

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SRI LANKA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have responded after Cyclone Ditwah tore through Sri Lanka, and the country now grapples with one of the most severe humanitarian crises in its recent history. Entire communities have been uprooted, essential infrastructure crippled, and thousands of families left without homes. Salesians sprung to action, offering relief, protection, food and hope to those who have lost everything.

National disaster authorities report that there are more than 600 confirmed deaths and more than 330 people still missing. Nearly 1.5 million residents — including more than 275,000 children — have been affected. Over 233,000 people are currently staying in 1,441 temporary shelters, while thousands more are living with relatives after their homes were destroyed or severely damaged. More than 565 houses lie in ruins, and over 20,000 are partially damaged. Vast regions remain inaccessible due to collapsed roads, broken bridges and disrupted water systems.

Salesian parishes, schools, boarding houses, and community centers across the country have opened their doors, providing emergency shelter, food, clean water, clothing, and hygiene kits. Youth groups, parish volunteers and international partners have joined the mobilization, ensuring that aid reaches even remote communities.

Particular care is being given to youth, the elderly and those suffering trauma — groups most vulnerable in the aftermath of disaster. Salesian teams are offering psychosocial and pastoral support, helping families cope with loss, fear, and uncertainty.

Father Roshan Miranda, superior of the vice province, expressed concern and resolve as the crisis deepens. He said, “Our people are going through unimaginable suffering, and we must respond with the heart of Don Bosco. I want every Salesian house to be open as a place where families can find shelter, where children and young people are protected, and where no one feels abandoned. This is our mission, especially in times like these.”

One Salesian cooperator summed up the spirit of the response: “We cannot solve everything, but we can be a place of hope.”

Sri Lankans are affected by a significant lack of infrastructure including roads, electricity, irrigation systems and communication channels. In several areas of the country, seven out of 10 people have no access to electricity and almost half of the population does not have access to safe drinking water. Malnutrition among children is also common.

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ANS – Sri Lanka – Devastation from Cyclone Ditwah Met with Rapid Salesian Response

Salesian Missions – Sri Lanka

World Bank – Sri Lanka

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MYANMAR

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have run the Don Bosco Youth Center in Mandalay, the second largest city in Myanmar*, since 2014. The city has been crushed for years by the weight of civil war and most recently a devastating earthquake that continues to impact millions of people. Many youth have been left orphaned or without a family, living on the streets without anyone to protect them.

The Don Bosco Youth Center provides support for 60 youth from difficult backgrounds, including youth from single-parent families and orphans. Most of the youth attend a local school and depend entirely on the Salesian community for their daily needs. The center is run by four Salesian priests, two cooks and a volunteer.

Before the March 2025 earthquake, the center had organized short vocational training courses in electrical wiring, computer skills and motorbike repair. When the earthquake severely damaged the buildings, Salesians were forced to suspend classes.

Although the Myanmar Mary Help of Christians Vice-Province offers regular financial support, missionaries continue to struggle with rising costs for health care and education. Because of the financial difficulties in which they live, Salesians in Mandalay have asked for help to continue food support for 60 youth between the ages of 8-18.

“This support is a valuable help for our mission. It allows these children to continue to grow up in safety, dignity and with hope,” said Father Zeya Aung, a Salesian missionary who wrote to the Salesian Mission Office in Turin, Italy, explaining the situation.

Despite the challenges, Salesian missionaries continue supporting the most vulnerable, and efforts have expanded to the creation of a long-term global aid plan to help people rebuild their lives after the earthquake.

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ANS – Myanmar – Nourishment, security and an educational journey: the three objectives of the ‘Missioni Don Bosco’ project for the Mandalay youth centre

Salesian Missions – Myanmar

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country 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.

The post MYANMAR: Don Bosco Youth Center supports vulnerable youth first appeared on MissionNewswire.

KENYA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Province of East Africa has inaugurated a new Don Bosco oratory in Siaya, Kenya, near Lake Victoria. The launch of the new center also marks the 150th anniversary of the first Salesian missionaries in the region. Welcomed by Archbishop Maurice Mbata and the clergy of the Archdiocese of Kisumu, the Salesians are being hosted by the parish community of Mbaga.

The oratory was officially blessed and opened on Nov. 22. More than 100 boys and girls attended the first gathering, expressing joy and enthusiasm for the new center. Local families are anticipating the future senior secondary school also planned for the site. The land was donated to the Salesians two years ago by German philanthropist Dr. Alois Stimpfle. The Salesian community is looking for assistance to start the school with the goal of the first enrollment in 2028.

A Salesian explained, “This is the first Salesian oratory in Siaya. We have had such a welcome reception. With the great need for poor youth in the community, we hope to expand to provide formal education so youth can gain the skills for long-term employment. Salesians require assistance though to build the school and get it operational.”

According to the World Bank, more than 7.8 million people in Kenya are living in extreme poverty, with the majority in rural areas. There are approximately 6.6 million people living on less than $1.90 a day in rural regions, while 1.1 million extremely poor people live in urban areas. Overall, the poverty incidence declined in recent years, but at a lower rate in urban areas than rural ones.

Youth living in Kenya’s larger cities like Nairobi are at risk for exploitation, forced labor and other abuses. Few attend the later stages of school as compared to those living in Kenya’s more rural areas. The few schools serving this community are beyond the financial means of most families.

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ANS – Kenya – The First Salesian Oratory at Siaya (Kenya)

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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ITALY

(MissionNewswire) Salesians for Social network in Italy is working to ensure that youth at-risk have the possibility to live healthy lives and have access to the education they need to thrive. The Salesian organization supports thousands of youth every year in more than 600 territories across the country. Programs include 97 socio-educational programs, 45 day centers and 33 foster family homes.

In the 33 foster homes, close to 300 youth, aged 12-18, are taken in at the request of the social services and with the provisions of the juvenile court. Father Francesco Preite, national president of Salesians for Social, explained, “Many of these children and adolescents have experiences of abandonment, violence or loneliness behind them. Each carries within them a wound, but also a possibility for a better future. We are inspired by Don Bosco’s Preventive System, which focuses on relationships and the integral growth of the person, also in its spiritual dimension.”

In Italy, there are about 33,000 youth living far from their families of origin, as well as more than 16,000 unaccompanied foreign minors.

Fr. Preite continued, “Our family homes are not merely welfare places, but homes where one can grow and learn to believe in oneself and in others. Our objective is not just to protect, but to give back a future.”

Inside the family homes, youth find a safe and inclusive environment that provides them opportunities for growth including school, sports, professional training, healthy relationships and an educational community that supports them every day. Even after the age of 18, Salesians for Social continues to support youth in finding a home or a job or continuing their studies.

Multidisciplinary teams, made up of educators and psychologists, guarantee a continuous presence, 24 hours a day, offering listening, stability and ongoing support.

Fr. Preite added, “Poverty is not a statistic. It is an open wound in the heart of our country. Every child excluded from opportunities is a collective defeat. In Italy, according to ISTAT, more than 1.3 million children live in poverty. Isolated projects or emergency responses are no longer enough. We need structural policies, stable resources and political courage to guarantee all minors protection, health, safety, well-being, participation and equality. We need a new social pact that restores dignity to the most fragile children and adolescents. They are not ‘problems to be managed’, but lives to be enhanced, citizens of today and tomorrow.”

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ANS – Italy – Appeal by ‘Salesians for Social’: it is a priority to permanently invest in childhood and adolescence and build a new educational pact

Salesian Missions – Italy

World Bank – Italy

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BRAZIL

(MissionNewswire) The “I Think, Therefore I Write” initiative was created by Wagner Garcia Siqueira, a teacher at the Fadlo Haidar State School in Itaquera, Brazil. The initiative has been recognized as one of the 100 most impactful and scalable educational innovations in the world for the 2026 edition of the catalogue of HundrED, a global organization based in Finland that identifies and disseminates transformative practices in education.

The 100 projects selected will be presented over 100 days on the HundrED platform. Wagner’s project is scheduled to go live on Jan. 30, 2026. The projects selected in the catalogue come from 52 different countries and benefit 63 million students around the world.

With over 31 years of experience teaching Portuguese, Siqueira celebrates the international recognition of the project, developed with public school students. He said, “The fact that we are internationally recognized shows us the connection that a practice in Brazil has with other professionals, educators and experts around the world, and that gives us a wonderful feeling.”

Siqueira has a long-standing relationship with the Dom Bosco Social Work in Itaquera and made a point of thanking Father Rosalvino Morán Viñayo, precursor of the Salesian presence in the region, for all his contributions to his career.

Siqueira noted, “Gratitude. That is the word I wish to express to Father Rosalvino and the Salesian Community of Itaquera for all their work in promoting the education of children, young people and adults on the outskirts of the city of São Paulo through the Dom Bosco Social Work. I am a child of this center, which had a decisive impact on my career as a teacher, as I learned that ‘education is a matter of the heart,’ according to Dom Bosco.”

Created 21 years ago, the initiative came from Siqueira’s perception of students’ insecurity when faced with assessments that required writing. He transformed the teaching of writing into a collaborative process, in which students actively participate in choosing topics and correcting texts. In addition to preparing students for tests and university entrance exams, the main focus of the initiative is to help students develop expression and language proficiency.

Siqueira concluded, “The importance of recognizing projects such as this is to show teachers in Brazil and around the world the work that is being done in practice. This work is the result of concrete practice, an action that responds to the challenge of developing education and helping students learn more.”

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ANS – Brazil – Former Salesian student’s project recognised as one of the 100 most impactful educational innovations of the year

Salesian Missions – Brazil

World Bank – Brazil

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MALI

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco 2000 Association has started its second phase of a training project for migrants returning to Africa from Italy. The initiative, one of the few still operational in the area, has recently started training 150 people, with 60% of them women, for agricultural and commercial cooperatives. Aly Traoré, a migrant who has returned to Mali* as a bridge between Italy and Africa, is leading the training.

An event, coordinated by the Treccani Foundation, launched the project with an international video call with mayors, village chiefs and local leaders. The project’s circular cooperation model, based on the skills of migrants trained in Italy and who have returned to their countries, represents how training can advance people living in difficult circumstances. The project is financed by the Italian Ministry of the Interior.

“Many youth leave the region for a better life elsewhere,” said a Salesian. “We want to ensure that they are able to either have the skills and training they need to remain in their communities or have support after they return home with new skills. This project is ensuring that those trained elsewhere, like in Italy, are able to come back and put their skills to work. We want people to be employed and contributing members of their families and communities.”

Since 2012, Mali has faced a political and security crisis that has been concentrated mainly in the north of the country. The crisis has now reached the center of the country and is affecting hundreds of people, especially children. Since 2018, the country has seen an increase in violence, insecurity and serious violations of international humanitarian law. The country faced two coup d’états in August 2020 and May 2021, and it continues to be marked by political and economic instability.

UNICEF has indicated that more than 2 million children between 5 and 17 do not go to school. More than half of children are still not literate. Children in Mali often have to drop out of school to work, enter child marriages or because of school closures. The country also struggles to find enough qualified teachers and textbooks for students. Only 73.8% of girls and 85.5% of boys are enrolled in primary school and only 15% of girls and 21% of boys continue to secondary school, UNICEF reports.

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ANS – Mali – Amid conflict and insecurity, ‘Don Bosco 2000’ starts training 150 young people and women with the RELINT project

Salesian Missions

UNICEF – Mali

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country 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.

The post MALI: Training project helps migrants returning to their home communities first appeared on MissionNewswire.

INDIA

(MissionNewswire) Four students from the Salesian College Siliguri in India have created innovative heart attack prediction software. At a recent event, the team showcased the technology in a live demo and were encouraged to get a patent for their work.

The software was built from scratch by the first-year bachelor of computer applications students in collaboration with the Radio Club’s tech members. Designed to analyze health data and predict potential risks of cardiac arrest, the project is a major product achievement.

The core development team was led by Anand Kumar and supported by Ronish Minj, Othniel Samuel and Rahul Kumar Sah. Each brought unique strengths to the project, shaping it into a working prototype that blends innovation with compassion.

Kumar explained his vision, “I wanted this project to prove that technology can feel human.” Minj added, “It’s more than a model — it’s our small step toward saving lives.” Samuel reflected, “Innovation in health care should start where compassion meets data.” Sah shared, “Every test run made the system stronger and us more curious.”

To refine the prototype, a dedicated beta testing team worked closely with the developers. Crist Minj contributed as a researcher, conducting literature reviews and performance comparisons across machine learning models. Priyam Kerketta looked at reliability.

Faculty mentors have lauded the initiative as a milestone in Salesian College’s mission to foster innovation, inclusivity and community-oriented technology. The vice principal of sciences remarked that the project embodies the spirit of Salesian education, empowering young minds, especially from tribal communities, to harness technology for social good.

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ANS – India – Rajya Sabha MP Shringla Lauds Salesian Students’ Heart Attack Prediction Software, Urges Patent and Startup Vision

Salesian Missions – India

World Bank – India

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SRI LANKA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries are responding to urgent needs as Sri Lanka faces one of its worst natural disasters in decades as days of intense rain, fueled by Cyclone Ditwah, triggered massive floods and landslides across the island. The cyclone pushed unusually heavy rainfall over almost every district, causing major rivers to overflow, hillsides to collapse and entire towns to be covered by water. Across the island, Salesian missionaries and the broader Salesian Family have mobilized rapidly to respond to the needs of the affected population.

According to official disaster management in the country, around 1.3 million people have been impacted with over 15,000 homes destroyed or severely damaged. More than 350 people have been confirmed dead and more than 360 are missing. In addition, more than 200,000 people have been displaced and moved into 1,275 shelters

Large parts of the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central and Southern provinces remain submerged, while rescue teams continue searching for the missing in landslide-prone regions. The flooding and landslides caused extensive destruction to public infrastructure.

A Salesian noted, “Many roads, bridges, and village access routes have been washed away or blocked, leaving several communities isolated. Power cuts, water contamination and communication failures have been reported in multiple districts. Emergency crews from the military and police continue clearing roads, restoring utilities, and delivering food and medicine to stranded families. Some Salesian communities have opened their houses to displaced families and are coordinating relief activities with parish groups, youth movements and volunteers.”

Salesians are distributing cooked meals, dry rations, clothing, and hygiene supplies. They are also providing emergency shelter for families who lost their homes; supporting children, youth and elderly affected by trauma; and helping rescue teams by offering manpower, transport and logistical support

One Salesian commented, “People come with only the clothes they are wearing. We cannot solve everything, but we can be a place of hope.”

The suffering is immense, and long-term recovery will require months of rebuilding homes, roads, and livelihoods. Salesian communities are asking for prayers and solidarity and support for the thousands who have lost loved ones, homes, and security.

Salesian missionaries have been operating in Sri Lanka since 1956. In 1963, missionaries set up their first technical institute. Since then, they have established 17 more in locations across the country, as well as youth centers and other programs to help youth in need.

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ANS – Sri Lanka – Cyclone-Driven Floods Bring National Emergency

Salesian Missions – Sri Lanka

World Bank – Sri Lanka

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INDIA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian schools from North Bengal, India, emerged as winners at the Telegraph Awards for Excellence – North Bengal Chapter, held at the Birla Divya Jyoti School auditorium in November. Don Bosco School Oodlabari led with five distinctions across diverse categories, while Don Bosco School Siliguri followed closely with four accolades. Each award the schools received reflected the Salesian commitment to academic rigor, social responsibility and vibrant student life.

Don Bosco Oodlabari’s recognitions included honor certificates for excellence in maintenance and eco-friendly initiatives, social service, extra-curricular activities and the “School That Cares” citation. The school also received a merit certificate for academic excellence. Most notably, it was declared the title winner for excellence in social service, a tribute to its sustained efforts in nurturing compassion, civic engagement and a culture of care among its students.

Don Bosco School Siliguri was honored with the TTEF Certificate of Honor for social service, the IIHM Award for academic excellence, a certificate of merit for maintenance and eco-friendly initiatives, and the Vidya Mandir Trust’s Certificate of Merit for extra-curricular activities. The school was also declared the title winner for IIHM Award for academic excellence.

A Salesian said, “The two-day celebration of excellence brought together schools from across the region, recognizing achievements in academics, sports, music, environmental stewardship, and community outreach. Hundreds of students were provided certificates, while scholarships were awarded to support deserving learners from economically challenged backgrounds. The event reaffirmed the Salesian educational vision — rooted in reason, religion, and loving-kindness — as a beacon of transformative learning in North Bengal.”

Salesian programs across India are primarily focused on education. Salesian primary and secondary education in the country helps youth prepare for later technical, vocational or university study. Other programs help to support poor youth and their families by meeting the basic needs of shelter, proper nutrition and medical care.

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ANS – India – North Bengal Salesian Schools Shine at Telegraph Awards for Excellence

Salesian Missions – India

World Bank – India

The post INDIA: Salesian schools in North Bengal awarded for excellence first appeared on MissionNewswire.

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries are working to provide support to nearly 2,000 people in Cuba* who have been impacted by Hurricane Melissa, the third-most intense Atlantic hurricane on record. Nearly 3 million people were left without access to basic services after the hurricane devastated areas. At least 750,000 people had to be evacuated after the destruction and rising waters, according to official figures from the country.

“There were still communities left without electricity and drinking water two weeks after the hurricane. People are still trying to recover all that was lost,” explained a Salesian missionary working in Cuba.

He added, “There are still areas of Santiago de Cuba, Guamá I and Guamá II that are completely isolated because the sea destroyed the road. The material damage left by Melissa is serious, with bridges destroyed, roads blocked, and a good number of houses partially or totally collapsed.”

The Salesian Mission Office in Madrid, Spain is working to reach the 2,000 particularly vulnerable people with the “Basic basket” program run by the San Juan Bosco Center in Santiago de Cuba.

Father Luis Manuel Moral, director of Salesian Missions in Madrid, said, “The situation continues to be very complicated, given the country had already been marked by an economic crisis and a great shortage of supplies. The hurricane has made the precariousness of many people even more acute, especially the most vulnerable, such as minors, families at risk, single mothers or elderly people who are alone.”

He added, “There are many areas where aid has not yet arrived and there is a great need for medicines, drinking water, mattresses and other essential supplies. Many of these things cannot be found in the city. Moreover, the chikungunya virus is spreading rapidly, and the lack of medicines and drinking water is aggravating the situation for many people.”

The Salesian community in Santiago de Cuba serves 14 communities. In addition to education and social support, the Salesians have a small dispensary and a youth center where children and older youth engage in social activities and receive school support.

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ANS – Cuba – ‘The situation remains very complex with areas still isolated’

Salesian Missions

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country 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.

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INDIA

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Alumni Association, located in Kolkata, India, provides a model of alumni-driven social service and community outreach. The association has expanded its impact in recent years, with several projects offered under its umbrella to serve people in need.

Bosco on Wheels is one of the flagship initiatives aimed at addressing hunger among people who are poor and vulnerable. Every first and third Sunday of the month, a mobile food van travels to hospitals, orphanages and settlement camps to distribute freshly prepared meals. Members serve 400 beneficiaries 2,000 prepared breads, along with vegetables and dessert.

Bosco Cares addresses medical needs. A long-running free dispensary was revitalized into a monthly full-scale clinic organized on the first Sunday of every month at the school premises. Managed by alumni doctors, the clinic provides free consultations, medicines and discounted diagnostic tests to more than 100 patients each month. Annual blood donation camps encourage alumni and parents to contribute toward saving lives, and specialized eye camps provide free check-ups, eyewear, and cataract surgeries for those in need.

In addition, the association continues to run its adult literacy project, which has been providing education and training for young women for the past 27 years. The education empowers young women with basic education and vocational skills.

A Salesian noted, “The association does more than just provide direct service, it’s also involved in initiatives that connect past pupils worldwide. DB Global is a powerful network that unites past pupils of Don Bosco Kolkata across the world. With 16 active chapters in countries and cities such as the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Germany, Dubai, Singapore, Hong Kong, Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai, the initiative enables former students to support one another through professional, social, and humanitarian collaboration.”

The association is also involved with Bosco Connects. With hundreds of members from various Don Bosco institutions, the network helps individuals with employment opportunities, business guidance, academic support, medical assistance, crisis needs, blood donation, and legal or administrative help. It has also proven to be an effective space for mobilizing funds and addressing urgent personal or community problems.

The Salesian added, “The Don Bosco Alumni Association Kolkata continues to demonstrate how collective goodwill and organized effort can create sustained, meaningful social impact.”

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ANS – India – Don Bosco Alumni Association Kolkata: A Growing Force for Social Action

Salesian Missions – India

World Bank – India

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Faculty of Oenology and Food Science, located in the Salesian House in Rodeo del Medio, Mendoza, Argentina, recently celebrated its 60-year anniversary. An event that celebrated the occasion included Father José Cordera, rector; María Silvia Farah, dean; representatives of the Salesian community, including teachers, students, families; and members of the public.

The ceremony also brought together authorities from the Catholic University of Cuyo, political authorities, representatives of other nearby academic institutions, graduates and companies in the sector, demonstrating the interconnection between the community and scientific and technological knowledge. All present were given a specially crafted wine to commemorate the event.

Throughout the day, moments of remembrance, gratitude and hope were shared, celebrating a history of service of education and productive development in the region.

Dean Farrah said, “We celebrated a future full of expectations and challenges. In the current context, universities must accompany evolution in order to continue to be spaces of knowledge, innovation, professional development and, above all, human development, preparing for the future.”

The Don Bosco Faculty is part of the long history of the Salesian Rodeo del Medio House, which has been dedicated to training wine professionals since 1901. On Oct. 31, 1965, the Don Bosco Faculty of Oenology and Food Science was officially founded, which became the first institution of higher studies in the wine sector in Latin America. This grew to meet the need of bringing greater professionalism and academic training to those in charge of the wine industry.

Since then, graduates in oenology, the fruit and vegetable industry, food technology and the sommelier profession  have been trained and represent the faculty in different areas of the country and the world. The Salesian added, “Proud of the past, grateful for the present and hopeful for the future, the educational community celebrated six decades of history, innovation and service.”

The Salesian Province of Argentina North expressed pride and gratitude for this anniversary. In a statement, Salesians noted, “We congratulate the entire educational community of the Don Bosco Faculty and Rodeo del Medio for its constant commitment to formation, research and service to young people, in the style of Don Bosco.”

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

ANS – Argentina – The Don Bosco Faculty celebrates 60 years at the service of young people and viticulture

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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(MissionNewswire)  The Don Bosco Higher Education Institute (Instituto Superior Don Bosco) is focusing on the environment with several recent initiatives. Students from the Environmental Club recently took a workshop, using paper, water and charcoal powder to produce eco-friendly charcoal with low calorific value, which is a less polluting option suitable. The process involved preparing the mixture, molding and drying the product.

A Salesian noted, “The initiative allowed students to understand the value of recycling and the importance of environmental innovation, reinforcing the Environmental Club’s commitment to reducing waste and promoting ecological alternatives within the institution.”

Students at another Salesian-run education center, the São José de Lhanguene Training Center, is also having their students in the electrical installation course raise awareness about the importance of environmental preservation and proper waste management. Thirty-two students created posters with educational messages such as “Don’t litter” and “Stop waste.”

The Salesian added, “The initiative promoted teamwork, creativity, and civic spirit, reinforcing the trainees’ commitment to environmental protection. The activity showed that environmental education combined with art is an effective tool for raising awareness and ecological responsibility among young people.”

Poverty surged in Mozambique from 48.4% to 62.9% between 2014 and 2022. According to the World Bank, this rise is attributed to the hidden debt crisis, COVID-19, and natural disasters. Poverty is concentrated in rural areas, and even with growth within the country, the regions of Zambezia, Sofala, Manica and Gaza saw an increase in poverty in the 2000s.

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Photo credit

Don Bosco Green Alliance – Paper Charcoal Production Workshop at ISDB, Mozambique

Don Bosco Green Alliance – Creative Workshop at ISDB, Mozambique

Salesian Missions – Mozambique

World Bank – Mozambique

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(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Institute Youth Projects, located in Cape Town, has spearheaded the Salesian Hydroponics Eco-Ubuntu Project in South Africa and other countries. The project is facilitating training for youth in hydroponics and solar power and ensuring they have the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving green economy.

One of the project’s standout achievements is the integration of hydroponics into education and employment pathways for disadvantaged youth. Under the institute’s NEETs Youth Employability Program, the project participants are actively involved in the rollout and implementation of hydroponics projects in their communities. By engaging these youth in meaningful work, the project not only addresses unemployment but also fosters a sense of ownership and pride in environmental conservation efforts.

The Eco-Ubuntu project extends its reach into the institute’s Learn to Live program, offering students hands-on experience in hydroponic farming. By cultivating produce using hydroponic systems, these students not only learn practical skills but also develop a deeper appreciation for sustainable agriculture.

A Salesian noted, “Through a multifaceted approach encompassing renewable energy, water access, waste management, hydroponics, and sustainable cultivation, the Salesian Hydroponics Eco-Ubuntu Project aims to create a greener future for all.”

Launched by the Salesian Provincial Office in Johannesburg in January 2024, the Eco-Ubuntu project is a testament to the Salesians’ commitment to holistic development. It is currently operating in three countries, South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini. Within these countries, seven cities are engaged, casting a wide net for impacting youth and the communities in which they live.

The Salesian added, “At its core, the Eco-Ubuntu project seeks to instill a ‘green mindset’ within communities by facilitating accessible and practical green interventions. From hydroponic systems, solar installation training to borehole installations, the project empowers individuals to embrace sustainable practices in their daily lives.”

Since 1910, Salesian Institute Youth Projects has been helping youth who are homeless, unemployed or poor in Cape Town, the second most populous city and legislative capital of South Africa. Salesians provide shelter, education and workforce development services, meeting the basic needs of the youth they serve while helping them break the cycle of poverty.

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Photo credit: Eco-Ubuntu Green Project – Salesian Youth

Salesian Institute Youth Projects – Eco-Ubuntu Green Project

Salesian Institute Youth Projects

Salesian Institute Youth Projects Facebook

Salesian Missions – South Africa

UNICEF – South Africa

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(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries with Mission Don Bosco in Turin, Italy, have been supporting Salesians in Ukraine during the war. Recently, Father Mykhaylo Chaban, superior of the Salesian Mary Help of Christians Vice-Province of the Greek-Catholic Rite in Ukraine, visited Colle Don Bosco to participate in the first profession of a Ukrainian novice formed in Turin in recent years. He shared his experiences during the war.

Fr. Chaban told Salesians with Mission Don Bosco that daily life is made up of hardship and fear, but above all, of commitment, dedication, tenacity, resilience, dignity and hope. That hope that was further renewed by the profession of the Ukrainian novice.

Fr. Chaban said, “Right now, Salesians are trying to do all we can for education in schools and vocational centers. We have after-school centers, a children’s home and sports activities for children and for people who have suffered amputations due to the ongoing war.”

He continued, “We want to do as much as we can to give these young people moments of joy and happiness, even though the war limits us a lot, but we try to ensure safety for all our guests first and foremost. Russian attacks happen mostly at night, but they also happen during the day. The protection of the spaces where we welcome young people, therefore, is an important element of the service we render to them.”

Families from the eastern regions of Ukraine continue to arrive in Lviv, in the west of the country. Towns and countryside are being attacked by Russian forces and refugees are arriving and looking for safer places.

Fr. Chaban highlighted the work of Father Andry Bodnar, who is in the created community of Mariapolis, where Salesians have created modular homes for those displaced. There, Salesians provide support for 250 children along with many elderly and people with disabilities. Even as some people leave, others arrive.

The Salesians try to offer various activities, continually improving and expanding the service according to need. This year, they provided moments of joy to the elderly on trips to the mountains to give them a brief respite from the war. This is a trip Salesians take often with youth.

Salesians have also continued to provide food for 350 people. Fr. Chaban noted, “If we end this assistance, it will be very difficult for them to go without even one hot meal a day. Since they cannot work, they cannot live solely on the small state economic support. The people want to return to normal life and continue to work even in areas where the land may be mined. They clear the land and production continues. Father Oleh Ladnyuk and Father Gregory Shved continue to bring foodstuffs every month to the border areas where families live who have lost their jobs, have nothing, and can barely survive.”

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Sources

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

ANS – Italy – Where war destroys, hope still builds: the Superior of UKR tells of Ukraine after more than three years of war

Salesian Missions

UNHCR – Ukraine

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country 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.

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(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have been providing support to youth in Jacarezinho, Brazil – one of Rio de Janeiro’s most populous and violent neighborhoods. Salesians operate the Mary Help of Christians Parish and oratory as well as the Alberto Monteiro de Carvalho school, which has more than 500 students. For three years, after school and during the lunch break, students have been participating in a computer literacy course.

Father Natale Vitali, who coordinates the course, explained, “It is not an easy situation for the youth here, as they often do not receive a decent education. We do not limit ourselves to computer literacy as we help youth develop moral and social values.”

Fr. Vitali arrived in Jacarezinho in 2020, a year before a Brazilian police operation turned the area into a bloodbath. He knew one of the 28 people killed in the raid that was carried out by more than 200 officers with the aim of arresting 21 members of a criminal drug trafficking organization.

Fr. Vitali noted, “He was a young man who always sat in front of our parish and our college and he always greeted us. During one of my visits to the six local Christian communities, I celebrated a Mass in which the names and faces of the victims of the massacre, which is still a vivid memory, were displayed.” Fr. Vitali, who has just completed his term as Superior of the St John Bosco Province of Belo Horizonte Brazil, recounted the events to Vatican media.

Violence is deeply rooted in Jacarezinho and it has an impact on the education system. Schools are often closed and lessons cancelled. For some, the only way to earn some money is to become drug transporters.

“When the police enter the favela (poor neighborhood in Rio), there is always fear,” Fr. Vitali recounted. “It is not an easy situation. Many people do not want to live there. Youth often do not receive a decent education and do not establish a good relationship with their parents, who, in many cases, have not studied and do not understand the importance of educating their children well.”

Fr. Vitali knows how important it is for youth to be computer literate. Many of the youth in the course have never used a computer before. The youth, between 6-14 years old, are supported by teachers hired thanks to funding from the Salesian Mission Office in Turin, Italy.

The course started it in 2022, after the St. John Bosco Province bought the first devices. The number of youth has increased year after year. In 2022, there were 45, a year later there were 150, and in 2024, the number rose to 200 and also was opened to parents. Today, there are 265. Fr. Vitali noted that they struggle to get youth to go home when the course is over because they feel at home in Salesian environment.

When the next school year begins, between February and March 2026, the computer literacy project could be even more crowded because Salesians are expanding the facility, which will be able to accommodate another 200 students.

The impact of the Salesians’ good work in Jacarezinho can also be measured by the responses Fr. Vitali has received when he meets former students. He said, “A short time ago, I spoke with two former students. One, who started working in an IT company, told me that the course changed his mind and heart. Another former student donated his first salary to ensure that the initiative could continue.”

The Salesians in Jacarezinho will continue educating youth while working to keep them safe from violence and bloodshed.

Just over 15% of Brazilians live in poverty, with the majority living in the rural northeast of the country, according to the World Bank. While Brazil is making positive changes, there are still large gaps between the poor and the rich, and issues of income inequality and social exclusion remain at the root of poverty.

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

ANS – Brazil – A Salesian project to give young people in Jacarezinho an alternative

Salesian Missions – Brazil

World Bank – Brazil

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INDIA

Half of youth in attendance selected for positions throughout India

(MissionNewswire) Two Salesian organizations, AIDA-Don Bosco, a job placement network in Dimapur, India and Konkan Development Society, the Don Bosco Vocational Guidance and Placement Service in Curtorim, recently held job events to help Salesian students find long term employment and be ready for the workforce.

Supported by the Don Bosco Job Placement Network, AIDA-Don Bosco organized the first ever job fair at Don Bosco College in Maram, India. The event was well received with many youth taking part in interviews and in talks with the five companies in attendance. By the end of the event, half of the youth had already been selected for positions throughout India, marking a promising start for regional employment initiatives.

Father Roy George, executive director of AIDA-Don Bosco expressed his enthusiasm for the event, congratulating the organizers and calling this collaboration “an important step towards realizing the professional aspirations of young people.”

The Konkan Development Society the Don Bosco Vocational Guidance and Placement Service, in collaboration with Reginaldo Lourenco, a member of the Legislative Assembly, organized a career guidance workshop for more than100 students and some parents. The event emphasized the crucial role of family support in shaping career decisions.

A workshop included dynamic sessions led by renowned experts, who offered students a holistic perspective on education and career paths. Noah Rodrigues, regional coordinator of the Don Bosco Job Placement Network, opened the workshop with a session with a talk about choosing the right career path. He guided the students through a self-assessment tool.

In another session Colonel Jesus Benino Furtardo spoke to the students about the possibility of working in the army and how to evaluate different careers after the end of their studies.

“Learning the skills for employment is only half the process,” said a Salesian. “We want to make sure youth are able to take the skills they learned and access the employment that will allow them to be self-sufficient. Events like these are a step in ensuring that’s possible.”

Access to professional training and workforce development services is highly valued in India. India’s youth face a lack of educational opportunities due to issues of caste, class and gender. Almost 44% of the workforce is illiterate and less than 10% of the working-age population has completed a secondary education. In addition, many secondary school graduates do not have the knowledge and skills to compete in today’s changing job market.

India has the world’s fourth largest economy but more than 22% of the country lives in poverty. About 31% of the world’s multidimensionally poor children live in India, according to a report by the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative.

Sources:

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

ANS – India – Big job fair at Don Bosco College in Maram

ANS – India – An orientation workshop to help young people make informed career choices

Salesian Missions – India

World Bank – India

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INDIA

Campaign follows national initiative Child Marriage-Free India

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Gujarat collaborated with Just Rights for Children to launch a 100-day campaign against child marriage in three districts of Gujarat, India — Anand, Vadodara, and Chhotaudepur. The campaign was officially initiated on October 13, 2025, by Don Bosco Kawant and Don Bosco Kapadvanj, Salesian organizations that have been working tirelessly to protect the rights and dignity of youth.

This campaign follows the national initiative Child Marriage-Free India, which was launched by the Honorable Minister for Women and Child Development, Smt. Annapurna Devi in Nov. 2024. The movement has already made a remarkable impact across several states of India, including the districts of Chhotaudepur, Anand, and Vadodara in Gujarat, through the collective efforts of government officials, civil society organizations and community leaders.

Under this initiative, Don Bosco Kawant and Don Bosco Kapadvanj have played a significant role in spreading awareness and preventing child marriages at the grassroots level. Nationwide, the campaign has helped prevent child marriages, saving countless young girls and boys from losing their childhood and opportunities for education and growth.

In Gujarat, more than 300 parents from the three districts have signed written pledges promising not to marry off their underage children. These written guarantees are powerful testimonies of change and commitment towards building a safer future for every child.

As the campaign completes its first year, Don Bosco Gujarat is preparing for a 100-day intensive awareness drive from November 1, 2025, to January 26, 2026. The goal is to create mass awareness, strengthen community participation and build strong collaboration among all stakeholders to eliminate child marriage completely.

During these 100 days, the campaign will reach out to key community influencers who play an important role in the marriage process. The goal is to spread awareness and to help these community influences create and declare child marriage-free districts through coordinated community action.

Father Mayank Parmar, director of Don Bosco Kawant, emphasized, “This campaign is the need of the hour. The government, civil society, and people of goodwill must come together to protect children and completely eradicate the evil of child marriage.”

Shailesh Parmar, program officer for Don Bosco Kapadvanj, added, “Being part of a nationwide campaign like this will not only create change in India but also inspire action across the globe.”

Through these efforts, Don Bosco Gujarat continues its mission of educating, empowering, and protecting young lives. The 100-day campaign is a strong reminder that every child deserves the right to grow, learn, and dream free from the burden of early marriage.

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ANS – India – Don Bosco Gujarat Launches 100-Day Campaign Against Child Marriage

Salesian Missions – India

World Bank – India

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KENYA

Initiative fosters sense of stewardship among youth, educators and communities

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Kenya has taken a transformative step by launching the Don Bosco Integral Ecology Plan that spans from now through 2029. Salesians in Kenya will turn to Don Bosco Green Alliance, a global platform for ecological initiatives and activities.

The plan represents a comprehensive roadmap to integrate ecological responsibility across all facets of Salesian education, pastoral care, and social engagement. The six pillars of the plan include energy management, carbon management, water management, waste management, sustainable agriculture, and ecological conversion.

These actions will involve the participation of 14 Salesian institutions across Kenya and is designed to benefit more than 45,000 youth and community members annually. Rooted firmly in the principles of Laudato Si’, Pope Francis’s call for an integral approach to ecology, the initiative addresses critical environmental challenges while fostering a sense of stewardship among young people, educators, and communities.

In his opening remarks to unveil the plan, Father George Tharayil, provincial superior, framed the initiative as both a spiritual and practical commitment. He said, “This five-year strategic plan for Integral Ecology reflects our dedication to God, the environment, and the people we serve.”

Father Savio Silveira, the coordinator of the Don Bosco Green Alliance, addressed the growing concern of “eco-anxiety” among youth, emphasizing the importance of immediate action. “Whatever affects young people affects the Salesian community,” he stressed, applauding the Salesian Province of East Africa for being the first in the Salesian world to launch such a comprehensive ecological plan.

The launch event concluded with a symbolic tree-planting ceremony, involving representatives from Don Bosco institutions, private entities, non-governmental organizations and civil society. This act symbolized the shared commitment to nurturing a greener planet and marked the beginning of a legacy that will inspire future generations.

The Don Bosco Integral Ecology Plan sets a powerful example, calling on Salesian provinces worldwide to embrace ecological responsibility with focus, unity, and determination.

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Don Bosco Green Alliance – Kenya – The Salesian Province of East Africa (AFE) Launches the Don Bosco Integral Ecology Plan (2025–2029)

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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INDIA

Programs to spotlight on youth age 16 and above 

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco’s Prafulta Psychological Services, located in Mumbai, India, has several programs that promote understanding, protection, and prioritization of mental wellness. While Mental Health Awareness month is in October, the organization recognizes that prioritizing mental health goes beyond a day or a month-long focus.

A Salesian noted, “Mental health, which profoundly shapes how we think, feel, and act, is essential for coping with stress, building meaningful relationships, and making sound decisions. We believe that awareness and action around emotional well-being has become increasingly urgent.”

Prafulta organizes a wide range of programs, including workshops, social media campaigns, and community outreach activities, designed to engage individuals across age groups. These initiatives aim to empower people with practical tools for maintaining emotional balance and resilience in their daily lives.

This year, the spotlight is on youth aged 16 and above, a demographic facing increasing psychological pressures in a fast-paced, high-stress world. To address their unique needs, Prafulta has launched an innovative program titled “Vibe Check – Master Your Mood.”

This free, interactive 90-minute session invites young participants to explore their emotions, develop self-awareness, and learn effective strategies to manage stress and build resilience. With several youth groups already engaged, Prafulta aimed to reach at least 1,000 Through these initiatives, Don Bosco Prafulta reinforces the message that mental health is not just the absence of illness but the presence of balance, purpose, and joy. The center invites the community to join hands in breaking stigma, fostering empathy, and celebrating life as an adventure rooted in emotional strength and wellness.youth through this initiative by the end of October.

The organization held other initiatives in October including short videos, offering practical tips on overcoming everyday challenges like anger, anxiety, and mood disorders and Dance Movement Therapy sessions, using movement as a tool for emotional healing and expression. The organization also had Silver Talkies, a reflective series focused on the mental well-being of senior citizens. Psychologist also gathered to share information while workshops on career and mental well-being guided individuals to align their professional goals with psychological balance.

As Don Bosco Prafulta continues to champion mental health awareness, they remind the community that every step toward understanding and prioritizing mental well-being is a step toward a healthier, more compassionate world.

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ANS – India – Don Bosco Prafulta Leads the Charge for Mental Health Awareness

Salesian Missions – India

World Bank – India

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Communities now assured access to drinking water supply

(MissionNewswire) Christof Hürlimann, a citizen of Switzerland, financed a water project in São Marcos, in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso. He visited the area with his wife Angela to meet his friend, Mariano Wadzerepruwē, Xavante chief of the Obra de Maria village.

The meeting came after years of friendship which began when Hürlimann’s father was in Brazil as part of the Ambulant Missionary Assistance project and Wadzerepruwē was working as a driver and truck mechanic in the region. The AMA Project is promoted by the Salesian Saint Alphonsus Liguori Province of Campo Grande Brazil.

Arriving in the village of Obra de Maria, Hürlimann found that there was a severe water shortage. Families washed their clothes only three times a month and fetched water from another village. In the mornings, they used the scarce reserves for cooking and drinking, while in the afternoons they reused the water stored in the barrels for washing.

Hürlimann decided to finance the drilling of an artesian well through the Swiss MANNA – Aid for Brazil Association. The work took place in October. The new well reached a depth of 60 meters, guaranteeing approximately 30,000 liters of water per day. With the remaining funds, the team drilled a second well in the Nossa Senhora das Dores village.

The Obra de Maria village houses around 30 people under the leadership of Chief Mariano Wadzerepruwē, while the Nossa Senhora das Dores village has 65 people under the responsibility of Marcelo Tserewadzi.

Salesian Deacon José Alves accompanied the Swiss couple and recounted the impact of the visit. He said, “While we were drilling in these two villages, other Indigenous people from the villages of Maria Nossa Mãe, Cristo Redentor, Santuário and José and Maria arrived, all of whom lack water in their villages.”

With the completion of the drilling, the communities are now assured a drinking water supply and have reduced the use of turbid water from the São Marcos River. According to Deacon Alves, the experience has consolidated the commitment to the indigenous cause.

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ANS – Brazil – Wells and drinking water for two Xavante villages in Mato Grosso thanks to a Swiss benefactor

Salesian Missions – Brazil

World Bank – Brazil

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New Lakou Bosco Village supports youth to become self-sufficient adults

(MissionNewswire) For almost five years, Salesian Lakou Bosco, based in Les Abymes, Guadeloupe – a French overseas region in the southern Caribbean – has been supporting youth and their families. Through educational and social activities, the goal is to help at-risk youth have hope for a brighter future. The organization is about to construct a new village to provide even more services and is looking at youth needs to develop it.

The new Lakou Bosco Village will be a 280-square meter meeting place, including a large house with a living room, kitchen and workshop for handicrafts, a Lakou space (home in local Creole), a sports field and two multi-activity rooms that will house a multimedia space, workspace, playroom, and place for sports. The building will be constructed with environmental impact in mind using thermal insulation and solar panels while ensuring comfort.

To kick off this project, the organization held a seminar, led by the L’effet Papillon Association, which works to restore biodiversity in Guadeloupe. This event brought together volunteers, employees, youth and partners to reflect on the values of the project and its future.

The discussions highlighted kindness and openness to others, which are the pillars of Salesian Lakou Bosco. The organization’s charter emphasizes, “We welcome everyone unconditionally in the spirit of lakou, with solidarity and listening, respecting the dignity of each individual. These values guide every action, uniting a large family where everyone contributes their talents for the common good.”

Arthur Massiet, director of Salesian Lakou Bosco said, “Our actions revolve around young people in their living spaces including with family, in their neighborhood and school, and now the digital world. We aim to support youth in their personal and social development while helping parents to strengthen their role.”

The future village will embody these ambitions. Designed to be eco-friendly it will incorporate solar panels, water collectors and, thanks to a partnership with L’effet Papillon, an aquaponics pond and a green roof.

Salesian Lakou Bosco wants to introduce youth to green professions such as solar cooking and low-tech solutions, using recycled materials for simple and sustainable technologies. Massiet noted, “We want young people to become pioneers in ecology for a greener planet. At the same time, workshops, academic support, internships and cultural or sporting activities promote the empowerment of young people and the autonomy of families.”

Digital technology is also a priority area. Massiet explained, “Their virtual world is often foreign to us. We want to join them to understand, without judging.” Monitoring activities are planned, as well as support for families with digital administrative procedures with the help of social workers.

Salesian Lakou Bosco does not just provide support, it aspires to transform neighborhoods into spaces of collective responsibility. With its new village, Salesian Lakou Bosco is building a model where youth, supported by their community, are able to take control of their lives and become self-sufficient adults who contribute back to their communities.

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Photo Source

ANS – Guadeloupe – Lakou Bosco, five years of commitment to young people

Fondation Don Bosco

Salesian Missions

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INDIA

50 women start mushroom growing training to become entrepreneurs

(MissionNewswire) Fifty women have embarked on a transformational journey towards economic independence and sustainable nutrition through the Nanma program launched by Don Bosco Veedu and Salesian Cooperators. The program is focused on mushroom cultivation training and is designed to help women gain access to skill-based training to go on to become entrepreneurs.

A Salesian explained, “This grassroots initiative promotes women’s skills and empowers them toward sustainability and self-reliance in Trivandrum. With the guidance of Don Bosco Veedu and the continued support of the community, the project aims to become more than a livelihood initiative. It is creating a culture of empowerment, resilience and shared goals among the women.”

The training is led by Father Sojan, an expert with over twelve years of experience in mushroom cultivation. The training combines awareness that the mushroom market is viable and includes mechanisms to motivate the students, teach them practical skills and help them start a business.

Don Bosco Veedu has been educating and empowering children who are homeless and living in conditions of poverty since May 1991. The center has eight programs to support children and women. There are areas at the center for teaching short-term skills, a resource center, boarding facilities, a training center and residence for the Salesians.

Salesian programs in India are primarily focused on education. Salesian primary and secondary education helps youth prepare for later technical, vocational or university study. Other programs help to support poor youth and their families by meeting the basic needs of shelter, proper nutrition and medical care.

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ANS – India – “Nanma” supports women through mushroom cultivation in Trivandrum

Don Bosco Veedu

Salesian Missions – India

World Bank – India

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INDIA

Pitch made possible by contribution of family of young football fan

(MissionNewswire) The Opera Don Bosco Onlus Foundation recently launched a new synthetic football pitch at the Don Bosco Center in Madurai in Tamil Nadu. The new pitch was made possible by the generous contribution of the family of Riccardo, a young Italian boy who died prematurely and who was a great football fan.

Stefano Arosio, coordinator at the foundation who went to India for the inauguration, said, “For almost ten years, the foundation has been collaborating with Salesians in Tamil Nadu to carry out various projects on behalf of the youngest and poorest. The occasion of this visit took the form of a particularly significant moment for us.

In a country like India, where cricket and hockey are the most popular national sports, football is experiencing growing popularity, especially among youth. Many youth at the Don Bosco Center play it with passion.

To celebrate the opening and dedicate the new playing pitch to the memory of Riccardo, the boy’s mother and aunt also came to India, accompanied by photojournalist Enrico Mascheroni, a collaborator at the foundation. The ceremony, which lasted an entire day, opened with the blessing and ribbon-cutting ceremony and ended with the first edition of the Riccardo Trophy, a tournament that showcased the competition of 16 teams from schools and youth centers.

At the entrance to the field, a bilingual plaque commemorates the young man with these words: “Dedicated to Riccardo, a boy with a good heart, who loved football and dreamt of a kinder world. This pitch is his smile that lives on.”

In the days after the opening of the new pitch, Arosio visited several Salesian centers throughout Tamil Nadu. The Salesian centers are not only educational centers, but provide social programs where street children are welcomed, orphans and HIV-infected minors receive care and support, and where at-risk youth have the opportunity to attend professional training so they can find and retain stable employment.

In the region, Salesians also promote micro-credit projects for women in rural areas, sustainable agriculture initiatives with educational farms, environmental education and ecological awareness programs.

Arosio noted, “Everywhere we have been, we have found the same warm welcome and the same educational passion. What is striking is the ability of Salesians to look beyond caste or religious differences, always putting the person at the center. It can truly be said that in Tamil Nadu Don Bosco is for everyone and helps everyone.”

The Opera Don Bosco Onlus Foundation will continue its commitment to support these missions in the future thanks to the generosity of the many donors who share the same vision of hope and solidarity.

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ANS – India – A trip to Tamil Nadu with sport, memory, solidarity and visits to the Salesian missions that welcome the youngest and most fragile every day

Salesian Missions – India

World Bank – India

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SPAIN

(MissionNewswire) Salesians with the Padre Aramburu Center have signed an agreement with CNH New Holland Group to join the TechPro2 program, which has trained more than 13,000 professionals since 2008, and is taught in 58 schools around the world. It is a step forward in training professionals specialized in agricultural machinery. The Salesian center is the first vocational training center in Spain to launch TechPro2 project with the agricultural machinery group CNH New Holland.

CNH New Holland has initially provided a tractor for the students. The goal is that various agricultural machinery will rotate through the Padre Aramburu Center workshops.

A Salesian explained, “This is an exciting first step to have a vocational training center in Spain with this project, providing students with the necessary skills in agricultural machinery. We are then able to cultivate a specialized workforce.”

Daniela Ropolo, head of development of CNH’s sustainability initiatives, added, “The main objective is to train young people by offering them the technical skills they need to build a professional future and at the same time enable the CNH Group to have professionals trained in their agricultural machinery specialty.”

Teachers have already been trained at the CNH’s facilities in Madrid so that they can integrate a part of the agricultural machinery into the center’s automotive program. After learning in the classroom, students are immediately able to start assembling and disassembling the machinery learning the hands-on skills for employment.

Javier Marina, general director of Padre Aramburu Center, said, “The collaboration between the center and the company is vital. It is a great opportunity for students to leave the school well trained to enter the agricultural machinery sector. One of the things that the industrial sector and the agricultural sector need is technical personnel.”

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 those in poverty and offer workforce development opportunities to ensure an easier school to work transition.

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ANS – Spain – Salesianos Padre Aramburu, pioneers in agricultural mechanics training

Salesian Missions – Spain

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Students tend to vegetables, fruits and greens to ensure access to varied and nutritious diet

GUATEMALA

(MissionNewswire) At the educational campus of Talita Kumi, located in San Pedro Carchá, Alta Verapaz in Guatemala, 350 boarding students are working to cultivate vegetables, fruits and greens for their own consumption. The goal of the gardens is to ensure the students have a varied and nutritious diet.

A Salesian noted, “The gardens do more than just nourish the students. It also strengthens their self-sufficiency and nurtures deep respect for nature. Through agricultural work, the young women acquire practical knowledge that they can replicate in their communities, promoting sustainable habits and healthier lifestyles.”

As part of this education, students engage in agroecological practices for the management of different crops and vegetables. In the particular case of tomatoes, they apply natural products for both nutrition and pest and disease control. In doing so, they aim to harvest more nutritious fruits, with higher levels of vitamins and antioxidants, benefiting consumer health and soil quality by avoiding synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. These practices also encourage soil biological activity and help reduce environmental pollution.

The Salesian added, “The gardens of Talita Kumi have become spaces of integral learning, where sowing is done with dedication and harvesting with joy. Each crop represents an opportunity to value the earth as a source of life and to respond to the call to care for our Common Home. With these actions, Talita Kumi reaffirms its commitment to forming women leaders who contribute to building a more just, caring and sustainable future.”

Salesian missionaries working and living in the country have been providing for the basic needs of Guatemala’s youth while helping to break the cycle of poverty in their lives. They work extensively with youth and their families at youth centers, orphanages, parishes, and primary and secondary schools. They also operate technical schools, vocational training workshops and two universities in the country.

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ITALY

(MissionNewswire) A group of 15 forklift truck operators arrived in Pordenone, Italy, ready to complete the training course that they started in Ghana. After successfully undergoing advanced technical and language training in the Salesian vocational training centers in Accra and Sunyani, the young professionals went to Italy to strengthen their skills in their chosen field and build a professional future in the logistics sector. This training is part of what’s known as the “Ghana Project 2.”

Michelangelo Agrusti, president of Confindustria Alto Adriatico, an association that helps entrepreneurs, emphasized the effectiveness of a course that combines training, employment and integration. Two companies in Italy are also involved in the project.

Support for the project comes from International Volunteering for Development (VIS), which has taken care of language training certified by the University for Foreigners of Siena and made available psychological support services, cultural mediation, and civic education. These activities have supported the young Ghanaians during their professional and personal growth.

A Salesian said, “This collaborative project, launched in 2024, represents a concrete example of how international cooperation and technical education can open up real opportunities for growth, offering answers to the shortage of skilled labor in Italy and professional prospects for young Ghanaians.”

Salesian programs across Italy help youth who are unable to attend school and others who drop out to work at the few jobs available to them. A growing number of children work as laborers on farms and others have turned to the sex trade to help support their families. Those in poverty often live without adequate shelter, hot water, regular meals and health care.

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

ANS – Italy – With the ‘Ghana Project 2’ young people arriving in Italy to be hired by companies in the North East

Salesian Missions – Italy

World Bank – Italy

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INDIA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries with Don Bosco Navajeevan, located in the St. Joseph Province of Hyderabad, are working with poor youth living in the community’s 10 slums. The high school drop-out rates among these youth are the result of social, economic and cultural situations that require the youth to contribute to their families’ incomes rather than gaining an education, a situation which only perpetuates the cycle of poverty and illiteracy.

Child labor is widespread and exposes youth to exploitation and extremely dangerous conditions. To counter this, Salesians promote education, protection and opportunities for growth among the youth. Comprising of a team of Salesians supported by social workers, educators and lawyers, Don Bosco Navajeevan focuses on the holistic development of youth, ensuring they understand their rights and are able to gain the education they have been denied.

A recently established program helps youth for two hours every afternoon to bolster what they learned in school. Youth from all 10 slums have access to this tutoring program, one which provides snacks and also the necessary school materials. Participants also have access to recreational activities such as summer camps and youth club activities two Saturdays a month.

To ensure enrollees get the most out of the program, Salesians conduct follow-up visits with participants’ parents to reinforce the importance of education and monitor attendance and performance. The program also provides psychological support with workshops on self-esteem, anger management, creative thinking and more.

A Salesian explained, “It’s so much more than an education program. There are wrap-around services that help youth attend school and remain in school. We support the families too with nutrition support and monthly medical check-ups as well as awareness-raising activities on hygiene and health issues.”

Some of the activities of the program are aimed at the entire slum. Salesians facilitate events for everyone during the Children and Adolescents Rights Week and have formed groups such as a Children’s Parliament and an Adolescents Parliament, a Mothers’ Committee and a Local Action Committee. Salesians also routinely distribute informational material on childcare programs. All of these activities aim to promote the importance of education and ensure that families have what they need so their children can attend school.

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ANS – India – Hope in the slums

Salesian Missions – India

World Bank – India

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MADAGASCAR

Youth significantly improved language skills

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries started a tutoring program at the Victoire Rasoamanarivo High School in Ankililoaka, Madagascar, in September 2024. Since inception, the program has strengthened the French and English language skills of 60 youth aged 11-17 who were struggling in school and beyond. Two thirds are students from poor families.

Four teachers and four supervisors as well as a full-time supervisor were hired. Through the program, Salesians were also able to purchase equipment such as microphones, loudspeakers, mixers and amplifiers to be used for cultural activities.

Special tee-shirts were made as the official uniform for the students participating in the language groups. The shirts serve as advertising to attract other students. Cultural events in French and English were organized to immerse students in the language and help them not to be afraid of making mistakes. The events, which were also open to the public, took place at both the Victoire Rasoamanarivo High School and at other local schools.

A Salesian explained, “We managed to organize a big cultural event that we invited the authorities from the city of Ankililioaka, parents and students from other schools. It was a great success.”

The school year ended with a recreational event for the program’s teachers and students.

Throughout the year, the students were given monitoring tests and regular assessments to measure their progress, and notable improvement has been reported.

The Salesian added, “We are convinced that this program is a salvation for poor young people who do not have the means to pay for language courses. The school results clearly demonstrate our success. The result of the official state examination at the end of the first secondary cycle was 100%. We are grateful to those who supported this program.”

The Salesians have been in Ankililoaka since 1982. It is a rural city in the south of Madagascar where several ethnic groups live together. Since then, Salesians have opened schools, churches, a radio station and a youth center and have carried out projects that assist youth and families in need.

Salesian missionaries have 11 centers and work in several locations in the country, including the Don Bosco House in Ivato in the outskirts of Antananarivo. Salesians have been in Ankililoaka since 1982. They have constructed schools and churches, as well as a youth center. They are working to ensure quality education and make sure no student is left behind.

Madagascar is one of the poorest countries in the world. Seventy percent of Madagascar’s almost 19 million people live in poverty with 5.7 million of those youth between the ages of 10-24, according to UNICEF. This number is expected to double in 2025.

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ANS – Madagascar – No student is left behind in Ankililoaka

Salesian Missions – Madagascar

UNICEF – Madagascar

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PHILIPPINES

Salesians deliver thousands of pounds of supplies

(MissionNewswire) In response to the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck Northern Cebu, Philippines, on Sept. 30, Salesian missionaries with the Don Bosco Philippines-South Province launched a relief and donation drive to assist thousands of affected families.

The powerful earthquake claimed 72 lives, injured more than 1,000 people and displaced over 190,000 families. Homes, schools and churches sustained extensive damage, leaving communities in urgent need of help. Many Salesians, living in the communities in which they work, were on the front lines offering support and relief.

A Salesian explained, “With the support of lay mission partners, youth, volunteers, donors and benefactors, the province prepared and delivered hundreds of sacks of rice, food packs and relief goods. A team of twelve traveled to five parishes in Northern Cebu to distribute aid and extend financial assistance.”

The operation was coordinated through the Don Bosco Disaster Intervention, Response and Emergency Coordinating Team with the Commission on Mission Office in Punta Princesa Cebu serving as the central hub. The province continues to accept donations to sustain its ongoing relief operations.

Father Amelito Racelis, provincial superior, shared this message: “May God keep our team safe and reward all the generous people who sent their donations through us in cash or in kind. May the Good Lord have mercy on His people and continue to send help to the victims and all those affected and displaced by this disaster.”

As Salesian missionaries continue to provide support, the goal is to continue to focus on those most in need. And, Salesians wish to remind readers that even in the darkest of times, charity and hope can rebuild lives.

Since 1950, Salesian missionaries have been providing crucial help in the Philippines — working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Salesian missionaries offer a variety of educational and social development programs for youth. The goal is to provide the opportunities necessary to gain an education and skills training to break the cycle of poverty and retain long-term employment.

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ANS – The Philippines – Don Bosco FIS Brings Hope to Earthquake Victims in Northern Cebu

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UNICEF – Philippines

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PARAGUAY

Concert benefits educational center which supports over 2,000 youth

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Róga Children and Youth Symphony Orchestra in Paraguay celebrated its 21st anniversary with a concert entitled “In symphonic key: 21 years of transforming lives.” The event took place at the Tom Jobim Theatre at the Brazilian Embassy Cultural Center under the direction of Maestro Elio Fleitas. The concert was held for the benefit of the Don Bosco Róga Educational Center. There were several special guests in attendance, including prominent national artists.

A Salesian said, “The performance was a tribute to more than two decades of commitment, dreams and transformation. Over the years, the orchestra has been a space of artistic and personal growth for hundreds of youth, who have found that music had a way of transforming their lives and showing them the way to hope and self-improvement.”

Don Bosco Róga is an educational center located in Asunción that provides support to more than 2,000 youth in situations of vulnerability. One of its projects is the Don Bosco Róga Children and Youth Symphony Orchestra for 250 young people. The project is led by a staff of 27 educators and professionals and is aimed at youth ages 8 to 25.

Teachers provide lessons on 26 instruments including violin, cello, flute, oboe, bassoon, trumpet and symphonic percussion. There are also singing, dance and theater lessons offered from Monday to Friday in the afternoon and on Saturday mornings. While the lessons focus on music, there are many life skills taught in the program.

One Salesian said, “Our goal is not to train exceptional musicians, but to be a tool for saving human lives.”

Salesian missionaries have been working in Paraguay since establishing a church in Asunción in 1896. Paraguay is among the poorest countries in South America. According to UNICEF, almost 23 percent of its population of 6.5 million people lives in poverty, earning less than $1 per day. The gap between the small upper class and the large lower class is extreme and offers virtually no social mobility.

Conditions of poverty drive youth into early labor and a lack of literacy, in addition to a weak educational foundation, compounds the problem. Those in poverty face overcrowding, low-quality housing and a lack of access to basic household services. Paraguayans who only graduate from primary school are twice as likely to live in poverty as those who have access to and complete secondary school.

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ANS – Paraguay – ‘In a symphonic key’: the Don Bosco Róga Orchestra celebrates 21 years of transforming lives

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World Bank – Paraguay

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UGANDA

Center ensures education remains a pathway out of poverty

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Children and Life Mission (CALM) in Namugongo, Uganda is part of the “You are daily bread” project supported by Mission Don Bosco in Turin, Italy. The project helps support youth in accessing education and thriving once they are in school.

A Salesian explained, “Back to school time brings with it the excitement for many. The streets are full of children and young people with colorful school bags and dreams in their hearts. They return to school ready to build their future. But not for everyone. Millions of children in the world do not even know about school or cannot attend it because they are too poor, too far away or are living on the streets forced to survive.”

The Salesian added, “This is why education is at the forefront of what Salesian missionaries provide around the globe. Education is a pathway out of poverty, but we need to make sure vulnerable youth have access not only to school but to the supports that help them thrive once they are there.”

Mission Don Bosco is helping support youth in school not only at Don Bosco CALM but at Don Bosco Deodurga in India and the Don Bosco Boys Home in Sunyani, Ghana.  The Salesian noted, “Thanks to the generosity of so many benefactors from all over the world, these centers enable so many youth to go to school, and even more, to experience the joy and serenity of their childhood.”

Don Bosco CALM rescues, rehabilitates and reintegrates children who have been living on the street back into society. Salesians meet basic needs and provide education, socio-cultural activities and recreation — such as sports programming — to help youth have a bright future.

Salesians work primarily with boys without homes and those who have been orphaned, battered and neglected. Salesians also provide support for other vulnerable youth and children, including those with HIV/AIDS. All of the children are in school with some attending Don Bosco Primary School, Salesian secondary schools and vocational training institutes.

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ANS – Uganda – School starts at CALM too

Salesian Missions – Uganda

World Bank – Uganda

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ITALY

Network offers experiential workshops, after-school courses and educational supports for families

(MissionNewswire) September marked the return to school in Italy. With the arrival of the new term, Salesians for Social, a network in the country committed to welcoming, educating and protecting vulnerable youth, launched a survey to investigate Italian students’ opinions of the value of their education. The organization reports that while a healthy percentage of respondents consider school important, a significant percentage do not.

Specifically, 84% of Italian students consider school important for their future and more than half say they would like to go. Conversely, almost 1 in 4 disagree. Nearly 14% think it would be better to interrupt their studies, while a further 15% are not fully convinced they should continue.

The survey also found that 1 in 4 students feel very or fairly strongly that they are excluded from the activities offered at school.

Salesians for Social works to ensure that youth have the supports to remain in school. The organization researches the well-being of youth in school environments in order to be better able to provide support to those who live in difficult situations. Salesians for Social does this through projects specifically designed to improve students’ lives.

The need for such projects is high as Italy and Europe continue to wrestle with significant drop-out rates. While the rate in Italy is decreasing, it is at 10.5% as of 2023 and well above the EU average of 9.5%. Both Italy and the EU have work to do to reach the target of less than 9% set by the EU for 2030.

“At a time marked by growing inequalities and educational poverty, schools must be much more than a place of learning. They must become a garrison of inclusion and social justice,” said Father Francesco Preite, national president of Salesians for Social.

“We strive every day not to leave any child behind, rekindling motivation to study, offering authentic listening, concrete experiences and the constant presence of educators. In synergy with families and schools, we build educational contexts based on trust, acceptance and support. Following Don Bosco’s preventive system, we support the most fragile so that they can develop their potential and build, through education, a dignified future.”

To date, there are about 2,000 youth participating in Salesian projects across the country. These projects involve 160 educators and are distributed in nearly all the diverse regions of Italy. The common thread is the aim to respond effectively and innovatively to the educational needs of youth and their families. One project involves 550 students from 14 at-risk schools in five Italian cities: Rome, Cisternino, Palermo, Turin and Macerata. The project focuses on after-school and leisure activities.

Among the most important projects of Salesians for Social is the “Counter neighbors” project, financed by the Intesa San Paolo Charity Fund to combat educational poverty. This project has involved over 500 youth between the ages of 9 and 14 in five areas of high educational challenges. These areas include La Spezia, Casale Monferrato, Piedimonte Matese, Soverato and Modica. Through experiential workshops, after-school courses, educational supports for families and Community Educational Pacts, the project has forged solid educational alliances between schools, the territory and families.

During this project, 200 youth have improved cognitive, relational and motivational skills and 40 have returned to school after dropping out. In addition, dozens of families have become actively involved in their children’s education.

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

ANS – Italy – One student in four feels excluded at school. Salesians for Social re-launches projects to foster inclusion and combat school dropout

European Commission – Preventing early leaving from education and training (ELET)

Salesian Missions – Italy

World Bank – Italy

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SYRIA

New center is Salesians’ second in the city

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have opened a new Don Bosco Center in Jaramana, a multicultural neighborhood in the capital city of Damascus, Syria*. This is the second center that Salesians have opened in the city, highlighting their commitment to serving vulnerable youth.

The opening ceremony was attended by numerous families and friends of the Salesian community. Father Simon Zakarian, provincial, and Father Edwar Gibran, director of the community, welcomed the guests and emphasized the importance of this new center as “a new light for the youth of the area.”

The new Don Bosco Center offers a variety of spaces designed for the different ages and needs. There is a study area for university students to have a peaceful and stimulating environment that encourages study, academic preparation and sharing. There are rooms for after school programs for younger youth that will promote the development of academic skills and human values.

There are also classrooms equipped for vocational training, with courses for English language, accounting and electricity. Youth will be able to develop skills that will lead to jobs in the current marketplace. Once completed, they will have access to concrete tools to explore those job prospects.

A Salesian noted, “With so many young people in Jaramana, this center is not simply a building, but a concrete response to the daily needs of young people and families. Our mission remains to serve youth through educational, pastoral and formative paths that sow hope and build the future.”

The Salesian added, “While the region is marked by the tensions and difficulties, for many young people, often tested by the uncertainties of the present, this Salesian center will be a place where they can experience closeness and rediscover that they are not alone on their journey towards the future.”

Salesian centers in Syria are providing youth a safe haven and a place where they can continue to cultivate their dreams and their faith through education and support. Salesian centers are located in Aleppo, Damascus and Kafroun.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

ANS – Syria – Second Don Bosco Centre inaugurated in Damascus

Salesian Missions

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country 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.

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ITALY

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries with the Don Bosco 2000 Association in Italy are working to develop jobs for refugees through projects across the country. Recently, 15 jobs were made possible through the “My integrity” project that is supported by the AVSI Foundation, run by the Association of Volunteers for International Service, and financed with funds managed by the Presidency of the Council of Ministers.

The project includes a new social enterprise in Piazza Armerina, a commune in Sicily, which is being run at a confiscated property once owned by the mafia. Other projects where refugees are employed include the Museum of Legality and an aquaponics greenhouse in Villarosa, which are both assets confiscated from the mafia. In addition, the association runs Colonia Don Bosco to provide support for refugees.

Don Bosco 2000 Association staff welcomed a visit from the AVSI Foundation, during which the foundation’s representatives were able to see how refugees are being given work opportunities. They also met the diverse staff of the association, many of whom were once refugees themselves. In a statement, they said, “Those who have been welcomed, today are offering welcome.”

Dr. Roberta La Cara, director of the research and development department of Don Bosco 2000 Association, led the visit. He said, “We hope to be able to give continuity to this path even beyond the conclusion of the project, strengthening the collaboration with AVSI and promoting together new initiatives to support the most vulnerable. The ‘My integrity’ project is a concrete step toward a more inclusive future, in which work becomes a tool for dignity and integration.”

Salesian programs across Italy help youth who are unable to attend school and others who drop out to work at the few jobs available to them. A growing number of children work as laborers on farms and others have turned to the sex trade to help support their families. Those in poverty often live without adequate shelter, hot water, regular meals and health care.

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

ANS – Italy – 15 refugees find work thanks to AVSI’s ‘Mi integro’ project, in collaboration with the Don Bosco 2000 association

Salesian Missions – Italy

World Bank – Italy

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INDIA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian-run Prafulta Center for Psychological Wellness, located in Andheri, a suburb in Western Mumbai, India, marks its 27th anniversary of making professional mental health services more accessible, especially for youth. It was founded in 1998, by Father Godfrey D’Sa, a professional counselor, educator and compassionate pastor.

Over nearly three decades, Prafulta has supported individuals through counseling, psychiatry, occupational therapy, remedial education, psychometric testing and career guidance. Each year, the team of dedicated mental health professionals conducts over 800 workshops and more than a dozen training programs for mental health professionals. The team reaches 50,000 individuals annually, including youth, teachers, parents and professionals in the field.

To make mental health care more inclusive and accessible, Prafulta runs weekly group sessions for women and adolescent girls. These safe spaces encourage participants to express themselves, build resilience and strengthen relationships. Using art, games, movement, and discussions, counselors also provide education on mental health and child development. Individual counseling is available whenever required.

A Salesian explained, “In low-income communities, mental health is often overlooked. To bridge this gap, Prafulta has combined therapy with handcraft work. Every Monday, a psychotherapist skilled in macramé and crochet conducts sessions where women weave while engaging in meaningful conversations around self-esteem, parenting, and relationships. The sale of handcrafted items provides women with not only economic empowerment but also confidence and emotional strength.”

Since October 2021, in partnership with The Banyan (Chennai), Prafulta has also been running a weekly mental health clinic at the Aghai Village Clinic in Aghai. Around 50 patients benefit each week from free psychiatric consultations, psychological therapy and essential medication. Social workers ensure continuity of care through psychoeducation, caregiver support and follow-ups. This initiative is restoring dignity, reducing stigma and bringing trusted care to a region that previously had no mental health services.

The Salesian added, “These are just a few of the many programs that are offered through the organization. As we celebrate 27 years, we pause to thank God for the countless opportunities we have had to touch lives and nurture emotional well-being. We remain deeply grateful to our staff, partners, supporters, and above all to our founder-director Fr. Godfrey D’Sa.”

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ANS – India – “Prafulta: Outreach to the Marginalised”: Celebrating 27 Years of Service in Mental Health

Salesian Missions – India

World Bank – India

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HAITI

(MissionNewswire) Students received their certificates of completion from the Timoun Kap Teke Chans Vocational School in Haiti, known as Timkatec. The 94 graduates received certificates in trades including IT, construction, plumbing, electricity, tiling, cooking, sewing and cosmetology. The trade school supports vulnerable youth, offering them vocational training, basic education, shelter, food and essential care.

Called “The explorers of tomorrow”, the graduation event brought together youth mainly from Pétion-Ville and the surrounding areas, many of whom have overcome challenges.

A Salesian noted, “With everything politically going on in Haiti, the year was a difficult one, but it ended with thunderous applause as the new young professionals, with their smiling faces mirroring many hopes. In addition to the 94 graduates, several hundred parents and friends of the graduates filled the chapel for graduation, providing a warm and festive atmosphere to celebrate this important milestone.”

In an interview, Father Grégoire Laguerre, current head of Timkatec, recounted the difficulties encountered during the year and pointed out that it was only thanks to private donors that some financial gaps could be filled. However, this aid remains insufficient and fails to fully facilitate the continuation of training and assistance for youth, despite their important role in boosting their professional future.

Currently, several thousand youth in Haiti do not attend school. According to the United Nations Office for Drug Control and Crime Prevention and UNICEF, 25-30% of gang members are minors. Youth without an education or who are inadequately trained are easy prey for criminal groups, and many of them end up participating in illegal activities to ensure their daily livelihood.

Timkatec was founded in 1996 by Father Joseph Simon, a Haitian Salesian priest. Salesian missionaries began working in Haiti in 1935 in response to the Haitian government’s request for a professional school. Since then, Salesian missionaries have expanded their work to include 11 main educational centers and more than 200 schools across the country.

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

ANS – To combat juvenile delinquency, TIMKATEC trains around a hundred young people in manual trades

Salesian Missions – Haiti

World Food Programme – Haiti

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) A renewable energy project in Salesian vocational centers within the Blessed Ceferino Namuncurá Province of Argentina South has successfully completed with a focus on the implementation of wind energy. The overall objective was to facilitate education and develop installation teams to replace the energy forms used in 23 Salesian vocational training centers.

To achieve this goal, wind energy measurement and generation laboratories were installed for teaching in participating centers. During this project, 55 teachers and 689 students were trained in energy generation and equipment maintenance. The solar and wind energy laboratories in 18 centers were upgraded. In addition, advice was provided for the design and implementation of seven pilot projects for alternative energy generation by students and institutions.

One pilot project was the Salesian León XIII House in the Palermo district of Buenos Aires. The project consisted of installing solar panels and a reverse osmosis system to provide light and water to school 1022 in the rural area of Navicha, in Santiago del Estero. The project went beyond the technical aspect, and deepened the mission that the Salesians are carrying out in that rural area.

A Salesian noted, “In Navicha, when renewable energy arrived, it wasn’t just light that arrived. It was also the conviction that together we can transform reality and that true learning is that which leaves a mark on people’s lives and hearts.”

The project was financed by German donors through Don Bosco Bonn, the Salesian Mission Office in Bonn, Germany. This is the second training project of this kind. The first was focused on solar energy.

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ANS – Argentina – The second edition of the renewable energy programme in the vocational technical centres of the ARS Province has been successfully completed

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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INDIA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries held a two-day teacher training on career guidance at Don Bosco schools in Tripura, India. The training was held at Xavier’s Higher Secondary School and was coordinated by the school’s principal, Father Babu Stephen. It brought together 80 teachers from eight schools across the state.

A Salesian explained, “Over the two days, the sessions focused on the concept and significance of career guidance, higher education pathways, employment opportunities, university systems, and challenges in the present job market.”

Teachers engaged in interactive discussions, case studies, and group activities, supported by handouts and multimedia presentations. The resource person’s ability to combine theory with real-life experiences was highlighted, making the training practical and relevant to the job market in Tripura.

Salesian programs across India are primarily focused on education. Salesian primary and secondary education in the country helps youth prepare for later technical, vocational or university study. Other programs help to support poor youth and their families by meeting the basic needs of shelter, proper nutrition and medical care.

India has the world’s fourth largest economy but more than 22% of the country lives in poverty. About 31% of the world’s multidimensionally poor children live in India, according to a report by the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative.

India’s youth face a lack of educational opportunities due to issues of caste, class and gender. Almost 44% of the workforce is illiterate and less than 10% of the working-age population has completed a secondary education. In addition, many secondary school graduates do not have the knowledge and skills to compete in today’s changing job market.

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

ANS – India – Don Bosco Teachers in Tripura Trained on Career Guidance

Salesian Missions – India

World Bank – India

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SPAIN

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

Salesian Missions – Spain

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MYANMAR

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries, sisters and collaborators provided much-needed aid and support to 1,600 displaced families in Min Kun, Myanmar*. The families, who were forced to flee their homes due to ongoing conflict, received not only essential supplies but also spiritual encouragement and emotional support during this challenging time.

The team, led by Father Don Bosco Nyi Nyi, superior of the Salesian Vice-Province of Myanmar, distributed rice, onions, cooking oil, dried fish and eggs. Special attention was given to vulnerable groups. Elderly individuals received multivitamins to support their health, while children under the age of 3 were given toys to bring them moments of joy amidst hardship. In addition, the Salesians allocated funds for medicines and for general camp expenses, ensuring that the families could maintain basic living conditions.

A Salesian noted, “The Salesian mission in Min Kun stands as a testament to the power of compassion and collective effort in addressing the suffering of displaced communities. Through their actions, Salesians continue to embody their commitment to serving those in need, bringing light and hope to even the darkest circumstances.”

This humanitarian effort was made possible with the support of the Salesian Mission Office in Spain, whose contributions helped bring relief to the affected families. The displaced community expressed heartfelt gratitude for the assistance.

Months after the devastating 7.7 earthquake that struck Myanmar, the emergency continues to impact people’s daily lives as they face destruction, poverty and insecurity. Salesian missionaries continue supporting the most vulnerable, and efforts have expanded to the creation of a long-term global aid plan to help people rebuild their lives.

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ANS – Myanmar – Salesians bring Hope and Aid to 1,600 displaced families

Salesians of Don Bosco – Myanmar

Salesian Missions – Myanmar

United Nations – Myanmar Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan 2024

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country 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.

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INDIA

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Development Society, the social service arm of the Salesian Province of Kolkata in India, has built 34 permanent houses in Narkeldanga, after a February fire destroyed the homes of families who lived near the Sealdah railway station. The homes mark the end of months of displacement, offering residents a secure dwelling and significant step toward a better quality of life.

“This is not just a house, it’s giving us our dignity back,” said one of the people impacted.

The project, led by Father Mathew George, former assistant professor at Salesian College Sonada and Siliguri, also provided essential household items.

This is not the only housing project Salesians have undertaken in the region. To date, the Don Bosco Development Society has built 564 low-cost houses along Kolkata’s canals, supporting hundreds of families who are marginalized.

In May, the Don Bosco Development Society celebrated a major milestone of 500 homes built for people living in Kapali Bagan, located in the Tangra area of Kolkata. Kapali Bagan is home to numerous families living precariously along a major drainage canal. Residents often reside under makeshift shelters of plastic sheets and bamboo poles on the canal banks. The area is also close to dumping grounds, where many locals earn their livelihood by scavenging for recyclable materials.

Established in 1997, Don Bosco Development Society is committed to uplifting underprivileged communities by tackling poverty, ignorance and malnutrition. This low-cost housing initiative provides a dignified living space for families residing in the challenging conditions of Kapali Bagan.

Salesian programs across India are primarily focused on education. Salesian primary and secondary education in the country helps youth prepare for later technical, vocational or university study. Other programs help to support poor youth and their families by meeting the basic needs of shelter, proper nutrition and medical care.

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

ANS – India – Salesians Rebuild Homes for Fire Victims in Kolkata

Don Bosco Development Society

Salesian Missions – India

World Bank – India

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CHILE

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Educational Center (CEST) and the Marta Martínez Cruz High School in Yerbas Buenas, Chile, were recognized by the Maule Regional Ministerial Secretariat of Energy for their contribution to innovation in green hydrogen in the fields of electricity and electronics.

During the recognition event, Paola Bruna, a professional from the Regional Ministry of Energy, praised the project carried out by both schools, which developed a car powered by green hydrogen. It has been presented as a pioneering initiative in sustainable transport in the fields of electricity and electronics. The teams gave a demonstration of the vehicles that will compete in the H2 Grand Prix (H2GP).

The ceremony was attended by the Nataly Rojas, regional ministerial secretary for Government, and Cristian Bonfort, the regional ministerial secretary for education.

The authorities highlighted the leadership of both institutions for promoting green hydrogen and its impact on Chile’s energy future. Rojas stated, “These young people, together with their teachers, are pioneers in the region. With this work we are advancing our energy plan, and they are gaining experience and opportunities.” Bonfort stressed the importance of strengthening skills that enable the country to be represented at national and international levels.

Patricio Cáceres, head of electronics at CEST, and Lucas Olave, head of electricity, agreed that this recognition motivates them to continue training students in clean technologies, reinforcing collaborative work and care for the environment. The team’s lead student, Cristóbal Norambuena, expressed his enthusiasm for continuing to learn about energy transmission.

Salesian missionaries provide education and social development programs for poor youth in Chile. Once finished with primary and secondary school, students can advance for higher education. Salesian technical schools cater to students who have dropped out of school and are seeking a second chance. In many programs, students complete their education while engaging in internships with local employers. This increases the students’ hands-on work experience and ability to gain livable wage employment after their studies are completed.

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Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Green Alliance

Don Bosco Green Alliance – Regional Ministerial Secretariat of Energy honors CEST for innovation in green hydrogen

Salesian Missions – Chile

World Bank – Chile

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(MissionNewswire) The Peter Zago Youth Center, a project spearheaded by the Don Bosco Past Pupils Local Unit Quetta in Pakistan, was officially inaugurated at the Don Bosco Housing Scheme. The center provides a space for youth in Quetta that is dedicated to their growth and well-being.

A Salesian explained, “The Peter Zago Youth Center is envisioned as a hub for activities and services that promote the physical, emotional, and social growth of local youth. Its establishment underscores the commitment of the Salesians and the local leadership to empower young people and strengthen community bonds.”

The inauguration ceremony began with a prayer and a warm welcome for the attendees. Guests were greeted with gifts, bouquets and garlands, reflecting the community’s gratitude for their contributions. The highlight of the event was the blessing of the newly constructed community hall, conducted by Father William Matthews, the East Asia-Oceania regional councilor.

Salesian institutions are open to youth of all faiths. The schools provide economic benefits, scholarships and accommodations for students from the families most in need so that education is not only accessible but also an incentive for parents to send their children to school.

Pakistan has one of the lowest literacy rates in South Asia at less than 50%. Although the country’s constitution acknowledges free and compulsory education between the ages of 5-16, the rule is often not followed in rural areas for those over age 13.

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ANS – Pakistan – Inauguration of Peter Zago Youth Center: A Beacon of Hope for Quetta’s Youth

Salesian Missions

World Bank – Pakistan

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SRI LANKA

(MissionNewswire) A team of young innovators from Don Bosco Infotech, Kilinochchi, Sri Lanka, developed and launched an AI-powered wellness app designed to support students worldwide. The Revyv app is a result of collaboration between Don Bosco Infotech and the Salesian Province of Chennai in India. The project received support from the Father Guezou Foundation and the Salesian Mission Office in Spain.

A Salesian explained, “The initiative reflects the Salesian goal of empowering marginalized youth. Revyv will be offered for free to schools across the Chennai Province. The app was shaped with guidance from Niraivagam, a leading institution for holistic well-being, ensuring its relevance to student wellness. Moving forward, Niraivagam will oversee the app’s implementation across India.”

The Salesian added, “While education is the primary goal for Salesians, we care about our students’ whole person and promote holistic well-being. When students are healthy, they have a better opportunity to focus on their education.”

Salesian missionaries have been operating in Sri Lanka since 1956. In 1963, missionaries set up their first technical institute. Since then, they have established 17 more in locations across the country, as well as youth centers and other programs to help youth in need.

Nine out of 10 people who are poor in Sri Lanka live in rural areas, according to the World Bank. More than 40% of the country’s rural poor are small-scale farmers. Farm production is often hampered by neglect and low investment levels resulting from poor financial services and limited technology.

Sri Lankans are affected by a significant lack of infrastructure including roads, electricity, irrigation systems and communication channels. In several areas of the country, seven out of 10 people have no access to electricity and almost half of the population does not have access to safe drinking water. Malnutrition among children is also common.

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ANS – Sri Lanka – Youth Innovators Launch AI-Powered Wellness App, Revyv

Salesian Missions – Sri Lanka

World Bank – Sri Lanka

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DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) More than 500 students graduated from Don Bosco University in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, in the 2024-2025 academic year. In September, the school celebrated the graduates from the four faculties of computer science, financial management and engineering, human and social services, and theology.

A Salesian explained, “The celebration brought together students and their parents, family members, teachers, members of the university administration, as well as representatives of the local ecclesiastical and religious authorities. Among the graduates, for the first time, were students from the theologicum and post-novitiate, highlighting the recent expansion of the university as part of its educational and religious mission.”

The Salesian added, “This education that the students receive will help them find and retain stable employment. This will help them with self-sufficiency and put them in a position to aid their families and communities.”

Salesian missionaries have been working in the Democratic Republic of the Congo for more than 100 years ensuring that children who are vulnerable are not forgotten. 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.

Despite its vast material wealth, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has long been a very poor nation. Half of the country’s population lives below the poverty line living on less than $1 a day, especially those in rural communities. Because of ongoing strife and violence within the country, more than 8.5 million people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance.

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ANS – D.R. Congo – Academic Degree Ceremony 2025 at the Don Bosco University in Lubumbashi

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country 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.

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BRAZIL

(MissionNewswire) Volunteers with the Salesian-run Operation Mato Grosso in Brazil have been working to provide clean, safe water by building cisterns, installing pipelines, and seeking funds to drill new wells in Campo Grande for Xavante Indigenous villages. In addition, the Mobile Missionary Assistance project produces pumps adapted to each community, installs tanks, filters water, and promotes the responsible use of water resources.

The Mobile Missionary Assistance project maintains about 80 semi-artesian wells in what is known as the Xavante Special Indigenous Health District, which serves 26,000 people, and includes seven Indigenous territories, 14 municipalities, and 375 villages. The absence of artesian wells in the region has worsened health problems caused by drinking unsafe water.

Salesian deacon José Alves de Oliveira, who heads the initiative, said, “The challenges are many. I believe that collaboration between the public sector and various institutions, in this common effort, can be the way to solve the serious problem of water scarcity in the villages.”

The actions of Salesians and their collaborators have helped reduce deaths caused by waterborne diseases. Diarrheal diseases, vomiting, colic, and intestinal infections particularly affect the most vulnerable, such as children and the elderly. Over the last five years, the Special Secretariat for Indigenous Health has developed 10 water supply projects for the Xavante, contracted three and carried out four geophysical surveys.

A Salesian noted, “We aim to expand our water projects to further improve health conditions and support communities, without compromising their identity and culture.”

Salesian missionaries in Brazil provide education, workforce development and social services throughout the country and specifically focus on children with disabilities within several programs. Missionaries help to meet the basic needs of poor youth, including street children, and provide them with an education and life skills to gain employment, break the cycle of poverty and lead productive lives.

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ANS – Brazil – Salesian work with the indigenous peoples of Mato Grosso is the greatest hope for restoring dignity to these communities

Salesian Missions – Brazil

World Bank – Brazil

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(MissionNewswire) For the fourth year in a row, students who returned to class in Ukraine* connected from home, shelters or from other countries where their families have moved in search of safety. The war has forced remote education, in some cases in underground classrooms, said Father Oleh Ladnyuk, a Salesian teacher in Ukraine, in a Vatican news article.

Since the beginning of the Russian invasion, more than 3,800 schools have been damaged, almost 400 of which have been completely destroyed.

In Ukraine, the Ministry of Education provides general recommendations, while schools choose the teaching methods (face-to-face, distance or blended), depending on the security situation and the availability of shelters. Underground schools, already operational in several large cities close to the front line such as Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia and Mykolaiv, offer more children the possibility of attending classes in person. By the end of 2025, there are plans to open 150 such facilities in Ukraine.

“The majority of our pupils come to school and attend classes in person,” explained Fr. Ladnyuk, a military chaplain and high school history teacher in Dnipro. His statement comes from a recent interview with Vatican media.

Fr. Ladnyuk explained that many of the high school students have not returned because they have moved away. In the article, he said, “Many parents try to move with the whole family or send their older children to Western Europe or to the western regions of Ukraine. It is a sad trend, but I understand parents who want the best for their children.”

He also explained that teachers serve a dual role and have since the beginning of the war. They try to be an example of behavior and stability for the children, they invent everything to motivate them, go with them to shelters and calm them down during alarms.

Fr. Ladnyuk emphasized that for him teaching at the school is an opportunity to put the Salesian charism into practice as well as a chance to take his mind off the war. He noted, “It was good to see my pupils on their first day of school, I saw the joy in their eyes too. This is a beautiful thing about being a teacher: having the chance to meet the children who love you and whom you also love.”

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ANS – Ukraine – School starts again, and the bell is an air raid warning

Salesian Missions

UNHCR – Ukraine

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country 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.

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ITALY

(MissionNewswire) Mission Don Bosco, the Salesian Mission Office in Turin, Italy, has built two new wells for people lacking clean water access in two communities thanks to the help of donor funding. The wells are in Korr, a desert territory in Kenya marked by poverty and water shortages, and Mbuji-Mayi, a poor and overcrowded area in the Democratic Republic of the Congo*.

In Korr, the project included the installation of the equipment necessary for the well to function properly including solar pumps, piping and a 20,000-liter cistern. The water is flowing into the reservoirs, treated and drinkable for the local community. The availability of water has already begun to affect the quality of life and health of more than 800 families.

Located approximately 600 kilometers from the capital Nairobi, the Salesian mission provides education, health care and food support to communities in one of Kenya’s most isolated and needy regions. In 2018, a well had been dug in one of the villages, but the water proved too salty to be used. Despite this, Salesians were determined to provide better quality water.

A representative from Mission Don Bosco said, “Imagine a child who can finally attend school regularly because she no longer has to spend hours searching for water. Thanks to our benefactors, we have made a difference, turning a daily struggle for water into a story of change and hope. Let us continue to build together a future in which access to water is no longer a privilege, but a guaranteed right for all.”

In Mbuji-Mayi, a well was built at the Muetu Don Bosco Center. The mission there was founded by the Salesians in 1995 in Makala, and quickly became a point of reference for those living in poverty in the district. When Mission Don Bosco presented the water project, there were 4,900 youth using the services offered by the mission, in addition to the employees and their families, the patients of the attached medical dispensary, parishioners, and vulnerable families in the neighborhood. At that time, there were almost 10,000 women and young girls who faced harrowing journeys to find water.

A Salesian noted, “Now, the center has a water supply system that provides 10,000 liters of drinking water daily. In recent years, water expenses had become unsustainable, as well as the well not guaranteeing the minimum daily needs of the users. By drilling a deep well and installing all the necessary components, Salesians were able to fully cover not only the internal needs and those of the neighborhood, but also to ensure water supply to additional families in the community.”

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Photo courtesy of Missioni Don Bosco

ANS – Italy – Two wells, a thousand faces: water that saves

Salesian Missions – Italy

World Bank – Italy

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country 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.

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(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Sisters of Mary Immaculate operate six clinics in the remote areas of the dioceses of Mymensingh, Sylhet and Chittagong, Bangladesh, to help reduce maternal and infant mortality, according to an article in Global Sisters Report. The sisters have been working to combat these issues for decades in dispensaries, clinics and hospitals.

“We perform an average of three healthy deliveries every month, and we also have an average of at least 10 pregnant women come every month for advice and regular checkups,” said Salesian Sister Baptista Rema in the article. She has spent more than 25 years providing health care to Indigenous communities in rural areas. Most of her patients are poor, lack basic education and must travel long distances to seek her care.

In the article, Sr. Rema noted, “When I graduated from nursing in 1999 and started working at the Mary Immaculate Dispensary in the Diocese of Sylhet, the infant mortality rate in that area was over 10%, but now it is one or two in 1,000.”

Most of the women she provides medical care for are poor and have no choice but to continue working, risking their pregnancies. Others have lost their pregnancies due to abusive husbands. The challenges for these women in rural areas are severe. But still, the Salesian sisters continue to be a source of support.

One of the women helped by Sr. Rema is Mary Hembrom, who gave birth to her second child after eight years of marriage. She told Global Sisters Report, “I went to the sister for health checkups twice a month, and she delivered my child naturally.” Hembrom is an Indigenous mother of two whose husband is a day laborer and supporting the family on a modest income.

More than 100,000 children in Bangladesh died before their fifth birthday in 2023, and almost two-thirds of these deaths occurred within the first 28 days of life, according to UNICEF.  Despite these statistics, government health authorities recognize the sisters’ contributions toward reducing infant mortality, according to the article.

Rabindranath Pramanik, who works for the Bangladesh government’s health department, said in the article, “Most of the work that the government needs to do is being done by their missionary organizations, and the sisters provide services in remote areas as well.” Pramanik also expressed his gratitude to the sisters for their work.

Sr. Rema is advocating for widespread public health campaigns to reduce child mortality in rural areas. However, government health services are not available in remote areas, private health services operate strictly for profit, and the Indigenous communities remain largely forgotten.

In the article, she concluded, “I will call on donor organizations to come forward to support these rural communities so that they receive proper medical services.”

Bangladesh suffers from poor infrastructure, political instability, corruption and insufficient power supplies. Close to 80% of the country’s population lives in rural areas. Many people who live in remote and rural areas lack access to education, health care and adequate roads. An estimated 36% of the rural population lives below the poverty line and owns no land or assets, experiences persistent food insecurity, and often has very little education.

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Photo courtesy of Global Sisters Report (GSR photo/Stephan Uttom Rozario)

Global Sisters Report – Bangladeshi sisters work to reduce infant mortality in Indigenous communities

Salesian Missions

UNICEF – Bangladesh

World Bank – Bangladesh Poverty

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HAITI

(MissionNewswire) The Diocesan Center for Arts and Trades (CDAM) in Haiti, run by the Salesians of Don Bosco, celebrated the graduation of 114 young men and women. The graduates completed training in six fields, including IT, electricity, woodworking, construction, home arts and bar-restaurant services.

CDAM provides technical and vocational training for youth as well as educational and sports programs. Most of the students come from very poor backgrounds, so there are minimal tuition fees for those who can offer a small contribution.

A Salesian noted, “We applaud these graduates who have worked so hard to gain a skill for long-term employment. Haiti is challenged by ongoing violence and strife. Despite the great insecurity and misery, Salesian missionaries, along with many others, continue to stand by the Haitian people and students are working hard to develop a better life for themselves and their communities.”

The graduation began with a Catholic Mass led by Father Jacques Charles, who encouraged the graduates to be “pilgrims of hope” and to remain united in building a better future amid Haiti’s challenges. The celebration continued with cultural performances, speeches and heartfelt tributes. While the mood was festive, speakers emphasized the urgent need for job creation and investment in technical education to secure Haiti’s future.

Salesian missionaries began working in Haiti in 1935 in response to the Haitian government’s request for a professional school. Since then, Salesian missionaries have expanded their work to include 11 main educational centers and more than 200 schools across the country. CDAM opened its door to youth in 1983.

The 11 main centers each include several primary and secondary schools, vocational training centers, and other programs for street children and youth in need. Salesian programs are located throughout Haiti, including in the cities of Port-au-Prince, Fort-Liberté, Cap-Haïtien, Les Cayes and Gressier. Today, Salesian missionaries in Haiti provide the largest source of education outside of the Haitian government.

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

ANS – Haiti – 114 Graduates of CDAM’s “Synergia” Class Celebrate Graduation

Salesian Missions – Haiti

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KENYA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Boys Town (Bosco Boys) Langata is providing services to 32 boys who had been living on the streets of Nairobi, Kenya. The Salesian organization is the first reception place for youth to take part in a program of rehabilitation, literacy, and gradual inclusion into school or learning a trade.

A Salesian explained, “The boys stay at Langata for a period of three to six months, during which they receive assistance to stabilize them. Once they have made satisfactory progress, both personally and educationally, they are transferred to Bosco Boys Kuwinda to continue their education. At Kuwinda, the boys follow a standard education program, from primary to high school.”

Students who complete their primary education are then assisted with secondary education or are advised to choose technical training in sister institutions. The secondary education is most often provided at Don Bosco Technical Secondary School in the town of Embu, northeast of Nairobi.

With the two-year technical training, youth have a wide variety of skills to choose from, including tailoring, car engineering/mechanics, carpentry, electrical work, and welding, as well as secretarial skills and a full spectrum of computer-related job skills. After graduation, more than 80% of graduates are employed in their fields of study. Many students go on to attend university or establish their own businesses and become entrepreneurs in Nairobi.

According to the World Bank, more than 7.8 million people in Kenya are living in extreme poverty, with the majority in rural areas. There are approximately 6.6 million people living on less than $1.90 a day in rural regions, while 1.1 million extremely poor people live in urban areas. Overall, the poverty incidence declined in recent years, but at a lower rate in urban areas than rural ones.

Youth living in Kenya’s larger cities like Nairobi are at risk for exploitation, forced labor and other abuses. Few attend the later stages of school as compared to those living in Kenya’s more rural areas. The few schools serving this community are beyond the financial means of most families.

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

ANS – Kenya – More than thirty street children saved thanks to Bosco Boys Langata

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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