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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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

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries were able to strengthen three vocational training centers for improved learning in southern Argentina thanks to donor funding. The funding was provided by Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco.

These centers, which serve students who are poor and marginalized, can now provide access to up-to-date and relevant job training, providing students with real tools for the current labor market.

A Salesian noted, “The quality of teaching in the courses has increased substantially, including the incorporation of the new equipment, and updating and expansion of content related to emerging technologies.”

For example, at Don Bosco Villa Itatí students have better equipment to practice their skills in building maintenance, gastronomy, basketry, carpentry and blacksmithing through the renovation of machinery and tools. In addition, the San Juan Bosco Vocational Training Center and the Avellaneda Vocational Training Center have better equipment for students learning the automotive mechanic trade. Students can practice their skills in the classroom with equipment similar to that in the automotive workshops in the area.

Students also have greater access to internships. The education now includes practice in real-work conditions, a fundamental aspect for the acquisition of competencies, skills and abilities.

Pablo Rodriguez, who attends San Juan Bosco Vocational Training Center, is taking the course in front axle, suspension and steering mechanics. Before he started the course, he didn’t know anything about cars. He would like to continue courses at the training center and will enroll in the automotive electronics and electrical course next.

Rodriguez explained, “Although my current course has already finished, I will continue to come because I like the school. I came here not knowing anything about cars and now I have not only learned about tools, but I also enjoy performing complex vehicle diagnostics. My plan is to continue studying more things about the car, starting with automotive electricity.”

Matías Balza, attending Don Bosco Villa Itatí, has been working in gastronomy for many years. He was encouraged to start entrepreneurship with other classmates and a colleague. He said, “We are very happy because it began to go well. I continue with gastronomy and in my free time and on weekends we do blacksmithing work.”

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

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

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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

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Ceferino Namuncurá School in Argentina takes an active part in the Don Bosco Green Alliance, an international Salesian movement that contributes to global environmental action, thought and policy. One of the initiatives of the school’s Eco Escuela-Huerta Escolar project is a composting project facilitated by seventh-grade students.

Students learn about the material cycle, environmental responsibility, teamwork and the satisfaction of producing something with their own hands. During the 2024 school year, youth embarked on this mission by learning all they could about composting. They researched, read, shared ideas and developed texts to clearly explain what composting is, how it is done and why it is so valuable for the planet. They also created posters and drawings to teach younger students the details of this natural process.

With the entire school community, special days were organized for the other grades to bring in clean organic waste such as fruit and vegetable peels, used grass, paper napkins, among other items. The seventh-grade students were in charge of collecting and taking them to the compost bin.

The materials are placed in alternating bins labeled “green” (wet, such as fruit scraps) and “brown” (dry, such as leaves or clean cardboard). The compost is left to rest, stirred from time to time to oxygenate and watered carefully.

A Salesian noted, “This year, with the same hope and joy, a new team has begun to prepare. They are studying, informing themselves and are ready to continue with this beautiful task. Because as Don Bosco used to say, ‘education is a matter of the heart’, taking care of the planet is also a matter of the heart.”

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

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Don Bosco Green Alliance – Composting to Transform: Caring for the Common Home from the Classroom

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Faculty of Oenology and Food Science in Argentina is celebrating its 60th anniversary. Founded in October 1965 in Rodeo del Medio, Mendoza, the university is the first of its kind in Latin America. The university was started at the request of industrialists and authorities who saw that Salesian education was an opportunity to professionalize and grow the wine sector.

A Salesian noted, “The origin goes back a long way. As early as 1901, the Don Bosco Center in Mendoza trained young people in trades related to agriculture and wine production. Always at the forefront of progress, the institution has adapted its training offerings to the needs of each era, establishing itself for its technical and university education in the region.

Various academic, cultural and celebratory activities will take place throughout the year. These include a technical conference, the launch of a new degree course in oenology, a professional olive oil tasting, and a wine tasting at the National Wine and Grape Harvest Museum in September, coinciding with Oenologist Day. There will be a central event on Oct. 31, the official day of the university founding.

The Don Bosco Faculty was the first in Latin America to award a degree in oenology and in the fruit industry. Today, graduates from this institution are recognized professionals in wineries and factories in Argentina and around the world. The university continues to be a pioneer in the field.

Currently, degree courses are offered in sommeliers, bromatology, oenology and the fruit industry, and food technology. The university includes vineyards and olive groves, a wine cellar, an oil mill, a canning factory, state-of-the-art laboratories, and sensory analysis rooms. Students produce their own wines, oils, sparkling wines, beers and preserves, integrating theory and practice from origin to final product.

Through cooperative agreements, students take part in internships, exchanges and international experiences. In addition, the Padre Francisco Oreglia Center for Research, Development, Extension and Services allows students and teachers to participate in applied research projects.

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ANS – Argentina – Celebrations have begun at the Don Bosco Faculty of Oenology: 60 years of pioneering history in Latin America

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(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco’s Argentine Explorers were able to host a national congress to discuss topics that impact Don Bosco scouting in Argentina thanks to funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. Nearly 500 people met during the three-day meeting, focusing on topics important to the Salesians’ faith. The group also partook in training workshops and music, among other activities.

Participants in the meeting are now able to take the knowledge they learned and bring it to educate youth in the Salesian Scouting Movement.

A Salesian noted, “The youth involved in Don Bosco Scouting are among the poorest adolescents, who have fewer possibilities for the future, are more exposed to danger, and have a greater need to be loved and supported. Our goal is to educate those working with scouts to make sure they have the information they need to do their jobs effectively.”

The Salesian added, “The support provided by Salesian Missions served to significantly reduce the costs of participation of all involved and ensure a quality meeting. From the facilities and the meals to the materials and everything related to the methodology and logistics, we had an enriching experience valued by all.”

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.

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

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Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries were able to renovate the Betania gymnasium to provide a safe place for the people in the Ludueña neighborhood in Rosario, Argentina, thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The project, known as “A place for those who have no place” impacted more than 2,000 youth across several Salesian centers and programs in the Salesian community of the Vicarage of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

The gymnasium underwent extensive improvements, including a new granite tile floor, wall repairs, drainage fixes and a complete electrical system renewal. On the upper floor of the gymnasium, the entrance was improved and rooms were reorganized. A new room and two office spaces were added to serve as a safe space to support vulnerable youth and women. A general-use room was also established. On the ground floor, the restrooms for men, women, and individuals with disabilities were upgraded. A storage room for chairs and tables was built, along with access to the initial-level play area.

A Salesian explained, “These renovations enhanced the activities of the Salesian Youth Movement, oratories, and Saltimbanqui Day Center, facilitating cooperative games, creative activities, and group reflection in a safe space. The gym was also made available for different groups from the neighborhood.”

Salesians understand the importance of having a community space like the gymnasium so youth can engage in sports, connect with their peers and learn essential life skills through social interaction. The space is also available for other educational and social purposes while not being utilized by the students.

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

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Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) Salesians continue to support those impacted by flooding in the city of Bahía Blanca, Argentina. The worst weather-related disaster in its history left entire neighborhoods under water, power outages and disrupted communications. Families suffered devastating losses, with homes destroyed, furniture and personal belongings washed away, and urban infrastructure severely damaged.

Salesians immediately organized to help affected families. In a letter to all communities, Sister Silvia Boullosa, provincial of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians in Argentina, highlighted the dedication of students, alumni, and staff who came together to draw water from the school and cook meals for those hit hardest.

Days after the disaster, Father Guillermo Tanos, director of the Emmaus Salesian House and rector of the Salesian University of Argentina, shared a message about the Salesian Family in Bahía Blanca. He noted, “We are accompanying and sharing the suffering of our people, deeply affected by this tragedy.” Since the day of the flooding, communities across the area have opened soup kitchens in neighborhoods served by the Don Bosco–La Piedad parish. The response — especially from young Salesian volunteers — has been overwhelming.

Coordinating donations and distributing aid remained a major challenge, but Salesians continued to show unwavering solidarity and support. Donations have poured in from across the country, and volunteers of all ages have offered their time to help support the efforts.

“We are proud and grateful for the solidarity and dedication of so many young people in our communities,” said Fr. Tanos “They were the first to step up and meet the most vulnerable — not just bringing warm meals, but also offering closeness and hope in the most devastated corners. We feel sorrow for the suffering of our people in Bahía, but we have deep faith in our Salesian mission.”

Adrián Mandará, general director of the Salesian Houses of Higher Education, concluded, “Once again, Argentina has responded with incredible generosity to the urgent needs of those suffering most.”

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

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ANS – Argentina – The Salesian Family of Bahía Blanca Stands by the People After Devastating Floods

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) Salesians are responding to help those in need after massive flooding in the city of Bahía Blanca, Argentina. The worst weather-related disaster in its history has left entire neighborhoods under water, power outages, disrupted communications and many areas still isolated. Families have suffered devastating losses, with homes destroyed, furniture and personal belongings washed away, and urban infrastructure severely damaged.

The crisis has impacted both central and outlying areas, further straining the community, which had already been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and a December 2023 storm. The latest reports indicate that 963 people have been displaced, while the death toll remains at 16. While floodwaters have started to recede in some areas, neighborhoods like Ingeniero White and Cerri remain inundated, and the danger is far from over.

A Salesian said, “Bahía Blanca continues to endure moments of hardship, but its people stand strong and united in the face of adversity. The road to recovery will be long and difficult, and the city still urgently needs assistance, as the emergency is far from over.”

Salesian institutions in the city — Emmaus, Don Bosco, La Piedad, Juan XXIII Higher Institute and the Salesian University — immediately mobilized to assist those in need. While prioritizing aid for the most vulnerable families, Salesians also focused on supporting students, teachers, families and staff. The most urgent needs include food, drinking water, cleaning supplies, hygiene products, and, above all, emotional and psychological support in a time of profound distress.

Salesian facilities received some damage from the flooding. Juan XXIII Higher Institute experienced total flooding of its basement, damaging the library, administrative offices, cafeteria and several classrooms. Water also entered the classrooms of the Don Bosco and La Piedad schools, as well as the university, causing damage to furniture and disrupting normal operations. Emmaus House’s ground floor was completely flooded.

The Salesian noted, “Despite these challenges, the response was immediate. Emergency relief efforts were activated, evacuation centers were set up and donations were collected to support the most severely affected neighborhoods.”

To aid in the relief efforts, the Salesian University remains open to receive donations of food, drinking water, footwear and cleaning supplies. Additionally, students, teachers and non-teaching staff are actively participating in relief efforts at San Dionisio Chapel and Club Danubio, supporting the neighborhoods where Salesian volunteers provide educational and pastoral assistance.

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ANS – Argentina – Bahía Blanca Hit by Flooding: Salesians Work to Help People in an Unprecedented Disaster

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian community in Formosa, Argentina is strengthening the work for youth done through Radio Manantial thanks to funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The goal of the radio station is to provide support to those living in the city, especially youth, and to promote youth voices.

As a result of the funding, Salesians were able to increase youth participation in the radio station. Salesians added six new programs, three of which are led by youth. The programs address issues relevant to youth and encourage their participation in radio activities. Salesians have also been able to expand the presence of the radio station in traditional community spaces and on new platforms to help bring more awareness to its activities.

In addition, Salesians completed building renovations including modifications and refurbishment of the recording and broadcasting studio. They were also able to purchase new equipment to increase the quality of sound and streaming, as well as hold training to improve the skills of the technical team.

A Salesian explained, “Since the launch of this project, we have seen a significant increase in the number of visits to the radio station’s website and social media. There have also been 13 outdoor broadcasts in the city and one in the countryside. We have held activities with four schools, promoting the participation and collaboration of the radio community.”

The project benefited people both within the team at the radio station and the community. There are four people on the technical team along with nine students trained in radio operations. There are also 22 radio program hosts and 981 people from the Salesian educational communities involved in the project. Additionally, through broadcasts, Salesians were able to engage 10 parish communities, reaching 150,000 people who receive the FM radio signal.

To help build revenue for the radio station and keep it sustainable, Salesians launched a campaign to find new sponsors, offering advertising on multiple platforms. They are also able to rent the radio spaces for audiovisual productions. Both of these actions will reduce dependence on external contributions and ensure the continuity of broadcasts.

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Blessed Ceferino Namuncurá Province of South Argentina launched an environmental project to raise awareness about sustainability in eight Salesian centers. The project, funded with the support of the Swiss Salesian organization Jugendhilfe Weltweit (JuWe), has reached 5,000 youth directly and another 2,000 people indirectly.

Teachers and other staff have been trained in sustainable practices, and local government policies have been influenced through the project. Salesians have also strengthened the environmental teams in participating Salesian centers. In addition, three manuals were produced for the continuity of environmental commitment in each Salesian center. The manuals will provide a framework for other Salesian centers and communities.

The project provided tools to generate new jobs and promote new habits. The Salesian province communication office noted, “As a province, we are convinced that there is no way out of the environmental crisis except in community.”

Father Gabriel Doddi, provincial economer and director of the province planning and development office, explained, “This project excites and challenges us, not only for these eight centers that have worked and continue to work on sustainability, but also the support we can now provide other Salesian houses and centers in the province in the future. This is the commitment that Pope Francis has asked of us, and we, as Salesians, have taken on.”

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

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ANS – Argentina – Salesians with children and young people towards a sustainable environmental mentality

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Salesian House in San Luis, Argentina, facilitates the “Don Bosco Creativo” project, which promotes learning, artistic expression, and growth through various artistic activities and workshops. The project is open to all youth in the city with particular attention to at-risk and vulnerable youth living in conditions of poverty.

Don Bosco Creativo offers a safe, inclusive and stimulating space where more than 90 youth can explore their talents, skills and potential. The project, which began two months ago with only three workshops, currently has grown to nine each week. These include painting, a computer/content creation laboratory, folklore, singing, magic, drawing, guitar, reading and support for logical thinking. Recently, the project has begun to expand to other Salesian oratories in different areas of the city.

Hernan Gonzalez, representative of the project, said, “In Don Bosco Creativo we are proud to be a place where youth from the entire community, from different schools, meet to develop their talents. These types of initiatives encourage us to follow the path of Don Bosco, always looking for a way to get in touch with young people according to their interests while offering them alternatives that excite them and bring them closer to God.”

The Salesians of Don Bosco are considered the largest private provider of vocational and technical training in the world. Programs focus on helping vulnerable youth by providing access to educational opportunities that match the local employment needs. Around the globe, there are nearly 1,000 Salesian vocational, technical, professional and agricultural schools. Students receiving training in Argentina have a greater opportunity for success with long-term stable employment with the help of the Salesians.

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

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ANS – Argentina – Don Bosco Creativo: accompanying young people through art

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) Students attending the Salesian Ceferino Namuncurá School, located in Salta, Argentina, are participating in the “Eco-school and school garden” project. This project facilitates activities and experiences that reinforce the value of care and protection for the environment. Students are engaged in using renewable energy, the reuse of materials and the maintenance of a school garden.

As part of the project, the Ceferino Namuncurá School faced several key challenges including the use of renewable energy. In collaboration with the National Institute of Agricultural Technology and the San José Vocational Training Center, a solar hot water tank was installed for school use.

A Salesian said, “Students are heavily involved in working to protect the environment. They are reusing materials and working in the garden to promote the production of vegetables for school and family consumption. They are also supporting of the ‘Bottles of love’ project in which students produce eco-bricks to create a room for games and snacks in the Floresta district of Salta.”

The school educates 1,250 youth who live in situations of vulnerability. It has several environment projects that were started in response to Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ to raise awareness and increase action on the values ​​of integral ecology. Salesians are working to create an environment that is safe and caring for all life on the planet while building up a new generation of environmentally committed citizens and leaders.

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

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ANS – Argentina – An EcoSchool is possible

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) Students at Salesian elementary schools, high schools, and technical and vocational training centers in Argentina have new computer equipment thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. More than 2,800 students will be positively impacted by this donation. The project started in 2023 and will finish in July 2024.

With the funding, Salesians were able to purchase laptops, desktop computers, monitors, accessories and printers. Each institution obtained the equipment needed to ensure that students are able to learn and will be empowered in their digital education.

A Salesian noted, “Digital education is important for our students to be able to learn and compete in the job market. Learning these skills early will help to grow their digital abilities later in their education. Our technical and vocational students must have access to today’s technology so they are prepared when they enter the workforce. It’s skills they must have and Salesian educational institutions need the equipment to effectively teach.”

The Salesians of Don Bosco are considered the largest private provider of vocational and technical training in the world. Programs focus on helping vulnerable youth by providing access to educational opportunities that match the local employment needs. Around the globe, there are nearly 1,000 Salesian vocational, technical, professional and agricultural schools. Students receiving training in Argentina have a greater opportunity for success with long-term stable employment with the help of the Salesians.

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

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Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in the cities of Santa Fe and Rosario, Argentina, have mobilized to provide food support to 240 vulnerable families. According to the country’s National Institute of Statistics and Census data, poverty rates are alarming, with many families lacking the resources to meet their basic needs. This includes the many families already being supported by the Salesians.

Thanks to collaboration with the IRSA Foundation, Salesians are focused on helping families who are suffering in the neighborhoods of Ludueña, Los Hornos, Hipódromo and San José. Bags of food were donated to three Caritas offices and then delivered to the families. In addition, a support network has been established, which includes providing these families with technical training workshops and job placement possibilities.

“Providing stopgap food aid to families suffering from conditions of poverty is critical to ensure their health and safety,” said Father Michael Conway, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesians know that providing aid isn’t enough. These families need long-term support to get back on their feet. The only way to accomplish this is by providing skills training so individuals can join the workforce and earn an income to support their families long term.”

The Salesians of Don Bosco are considered the largest private provider of vocational and technical training in the world. Programs focus on helping vulnerable youth by providing access to educational opportunities that match the local employment needs. Around the globe, there are nearly 1,000 Salesian vocational, technical, professional and agricultural schools. Those receiving training in Argentina had a real shot at success with long-term stable employment with the help of the Salesians.

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

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ANS – Argentina – Salesians and “IRSA Foundation” unite to provide food assistance to families

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) More than 800 youth from the provinces of Salta, Córdoba, Tucumán, Mendoza, San Juan, San Luis and Santiago del Estero, Argentina came together to celebrate with their peers at the Don Bosco summer camp. The camp, held in Anisacate in early January, was organized by the Northern Region of the Argentine Explorers of Don Bosco. The camp’s theme “A heart that dreams, a thousand who live it” was inspired by the Rector Major’s Strenna 2024.

The event provided an enriching experience for youth who participated in workshops, catechism and games. Several Salesians were in attendance, including Auxiliary Bishop of Córdoba Alejandro Musolino and Father Horacio Barbieri, superior of the Salesian Province of Northern Argentina. Bishop Musolino expressed his joy at having participated in such a beneficial experience for youth, underlining the importance of these meetings for their development.

“Vulnerable and disadvantaged youth deserve a chance to have an enriching summer break where they can connect with friends and engage in safe activities,” said Father Michael Conway, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesian camps provide much more than just recreational activities. There is an educational component included in each one that instills teamwork, skill building and problem solving. Youth learn while having fun.”

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

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ANS – Argentina – More than 800 young people at the Exploradores of Don Bosco summer cam

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries are working to provide relief and repair their own buildings after an intense storm caused flooding and high wind in the coastal city of Bahía Blanca, Argentina. The storm left 13 people dead and caused destruction to homes and buildings. The wind reached 87 miles an hour and at least 300 people had to be evacuated.

Father Darío Perera, superior of the Blessed Ceferino Namuncurá Province of Southern Argentina, sent a letter to Salesians expressing his solidarity with them. “On this occasion I send you this message with concern about the terrible storm that this weekend hit Bahía Blanca and its surroundings and several cities in the metropolitan area of Buenos Aires.”

He added, “The Colegio Don Bosco is deeply saddened by the death of a child, a student of the school, and his father. For this reason, we pray intensely for this educative and pastoral community, so that the Father’s consolation may reach this family in these moments of inexplicable pain.”

The letter also noted that the Salesian house in La Piedad had been damaged. The roof of the old Salesian community, the roof of the new classrooms of Unisal and part of the roof of the chapel of Santa Lucia were blown off. Salesians are currently studying how to proceed with the repairs.

The Salesian Centennial Oratory in Avellaneda suffered the most damage with several uprooted trees and a huge wall that collapsed. Part of the roof of the school was also swept away and several classrooms were damaged. In addition, the Salesian Uribelarrea School suffered damage to part of the historic entrance of the school building and other minor damage in normal work areas.

Fr. Perera sent another letter asking the Salesian rectors for financial support for the structures that had suffered damage. He wrote, “I am grateful that two Salesian houses have decided to share resources to help in this situation. I am grateful for this generous gesture that makes us feel like a family, in which we not only think about our needs but also take others into account.” He invited others to help support the 2024 fund.

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

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ANS – Argentina – Letter from the Provincial regarding the storms that caused casualties and damage in the Buenos Aires area

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian San José Center, located in the city of Salta, Argentina, has trained more than 200 youth each year in vocational skills since the center opened eight years ago. Given its success, applications for enrollment are now more than the center can accommodate. In response, the center has launched a school improvement project to expand and provide new features for classrooms and laboratories. The goal is to accommodate more students and improve the quality of training.

Pedro Augusto Martinez, director, said, “The knowledge acquired is remarkable, both technically and in human terms. The young people are grateful and continue to be trained in the different technical specialties that the center offers them.”

Students can take courses in assembly of domestic electrical systems and sanitary installations, electricity, restoring and painting on construction sites, construction for walls and ceilings in plasterboard, and installing and designing systems for the supply of electricity through solar photovoltaic energy. The programs are recognized by the Ministry of Education.

A Salesian missionary said, “The impact of Salesian vocational training centers on our young people is well known. In many cases, they manage to complete their secondary education at the centers. Then through vocational training, they are given a real opportunity for personal and professional development, breaking the cycle of poverty and opening the door to a future with greater opportunities.”

The Salesian Argentina North Province has 17 vocational training centers that are providing youth with job skills and helping them enter the labor market, which in turn helps their economic prospects and that of their families.

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

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ANS – Argentina – Changing the lives of young people through vocational training

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian Don Bosco Oratory in Santiago del Estero, Argentina, held a summer camp for 500 youth from the area’s vulnerable neighborhoods. Youth were able to enjoy the camp from Jan. 18-31, which culminated with the Feast of St. John Bosco. Youth spent time connecting with their peers in a playful and educational space.

About 20 volunteers from the local Salesian Youth Movement participated in the planning and organization of the camp, along with young volunteers from other Salesian centers in the Province of North Argentina.

This year, the mottos “The best of me to share” and “The joy of meeting again” guided the volunteers in the games, sports and workshops they facilitated. The summer camp provided the opportunity for poor youth to experience a time of rest, relaxation, and joy with their peers and caring older youth and adults.

“All youth deserve a chance to have an enjoyable summer vacation where they can connect with friends and engage in safe activities,” says Father Timothy Ploch, interim director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesian camps provide much more than just recreational activities though. There is an educational component included in each one. Even sports programs teach teamwork, skill building and problem solving.”

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

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ANS – Argentina – Vulnerable youth, adolescents and teens participate in Don Bosco Oratory Summer Camp in Santiago del Estero

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Ceferino Namuncurá Salesian School, located in Salta, Argentina, educates 1,250 youth who live in situations of vulnerability. Through its projects, the school seeks to promote the well-being of youth as well as the planet. Youth are encouraged from an early age to take part in environmental responsibility through different activities.

The school offers family gardens, clean energy projects and ongoing education. Recently the school installed two solar water heaters with the support of the National Institute of Agricultural Technology and the Salesian Vocational Training Center in San José.

With the family gardens, Salesians have an opportunity to educate youth while growing food for the community. The gardens also provide waste for composting. In addition, the school works with the National Institute of Agricultural Technology’s Prohuerta program to provide training and seed deliveries to families who have children in the school. This encourages them to start their own gardens.

Salesian organizations around the globe have been focused on environmental sustainability projects in response to Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ to raise awareness and increase action on the values ​​of integral ecology. Salesians are working to create an environment that is safe and caring for all life on the planet while building up a new generation of environmentally committed citizens and leaders.

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

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ANS – Argentina – Triple-Impact Point Education at Salta Salesian School

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries launched a new building at a vocational training center in Formosa, Argentina. The building is dedicated to Mary Help of Christians and was built and equipped as part of the “Women and Work” project to improve the living situation of women through job training. The training center includes study areas, multifunctional offices, green spaces, and a kindergarten for the care of children while their mothers are busy in classes or at workshops.

The new building complements the existing vocational training center, which has been providing education for the past 55 years. Young women and men take courses to find stable employment and become self-sufficient. With the new space, Salesians will offer new courses in maternal and child care assistance, gerontological assistance, event organization, computer science, tailoring, microenterprise start-up, aesthetics, hairdressing, and design.

Father Horacio Barbieri, provincial of the Salesian Saint Artemide Zatti Province of North Argentina, said, “We are convinced that work is the best tool to foster social integration and give dignity to people. Today the Salesian community, attentive to the needs of all, is called to take charge through concrete actions of the needs of our contemporaries. It is our desire to value the personal dignity of every human being and to be custodians of the inalienable rights of each person.”

The building was made possible thanks to funding from the German government’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Don Bosco World Mission Office, based in Bonn, Germany, among others.

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

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ANS – Argentina – New Vocational Training Center inaugurated in Formosa

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Jugendhilfe Weltweit, the Swiss Salesian Missions Office, has provided support for an environmental education project for youth. The project, which will be implemented in eight Salesian centers in southern Argentina between 2022 and 2024, is known as “Our Common Home: with boys, girls and youth toward a sustainable environmental mindset.”

The project will provide training for more than 5,000 youth, and it will indirectly impact teachers, site staff and more than 400,000 people in the local communities. After the training, youth will be encouraged to form teams to continue to focus on the environment in their schools and communities. The goal is to raise awareness, reflection and knowledge of environmental issues.

The project was preceded by a survey that was conducted in December 2021. All Salesian centers were invited to participate in a three-month preliminary diagnostic and planning phase, during which they received advice from an environmental expert. The project was then launched based on the information and data collected in the survey.

The project will focus on waste management, composting and gardening, communication, and networking, as well as promoting good environmental practices and improving internal environmental management systems.

Salesian missionaries around the globe have been launching environmental and sustainable projects. These activities are in response to Pope Francis’ 2020 Laudato Si’, which underlined the importance of education and training that will help youth foster environmental responsibility. Rector Major Father Ángel Fernández Artime noted the importance of concrete initiatives in the care of the environment.

“This project is among many started at Salesian schools and centers,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “It’s important for youth to understand their environmental impact and the ways that they, their schools, families and communities can work together to make improvements and focus on greater environmental change.”

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

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ANS – Argentina – With boys, girls, and young people toward a sustainable environmental mindset

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian University in Bahía Blanca, Argentina, known as UNISAL, has started its academic year with more than 1,200 students returning to attend in-person classes. The university offers quality education to youth who are looking to continue their academic studies. Its focus is on development and research, advancement in technology, human resources, and attention to innovative practices for the common good of the people and the progress of the nation.

UNISAL has 200 staff members and offers eight courses within the disciplines of psychology, law and social sciences. During the 2022 academic year, there are 21 active research projects along with continuing education diplomas, courses, and seminars available. UNISAL is also being evaluated for final accreditation by the Ministry of National Education and the National Commission for University Evaluation and Accreditation.

Access to education and training provides a foundation for youth to break the cycle of poverty and gain employment. Salesians have been working in Argentina to provide educational opportunities to poor youth through schools, technical and agricultural programs, universities, and other services that help youth learn skills to gain stable employment.

Youth groups from the Don Bosco Center in Bahía Blanca resumed activities in the courtyard in May 2021 but college courses remained online. Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, noted, “As more activities resume for Salesian organizations in Argentina and around the globe, Salesian staff are still having to modify how the programs are facilitated. Salesian programs have remained agile through the pandemic and are working to continue to provide services, while meeting safety guidelines, to help support youth and their families.”

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

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ANS – Argentina – Over 1,200 students begin in-person classes at Salesian University of Bahía Blanca

Salesian Missions – Argentina

UNISAL

World Bank – Argentina

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Oratory in Santiago del Estero, Argentina, has launched the “Weaving Ties” program for 100 youth and adults from challenging socioeconomic backgrounds. The program, which receives support from the Salesian Missions Office in Buenos Aires, provides education for those ages 13-30. Participants come together Monday through Thursday for lessons and service to others. In one project, participants serve snacks to needy people in the community.

Most of those who attend have faced addiction issues, have not completed their studies, or are unemployed. Many come from poor families, and their parents survive on informal day-to-day jobs. Some of the younger children in the program who are still in school struggle with the formal educational structure. Their neighborhood offers few positive activities for youth. The program and others like it offered by the Salesian Oratory are a lifeline for many.

Nely is one of the participants. She is a young single mother who had dropped out of school but has found a second chance in the program. She said, “Personally, it has helped me so much. With the space they provide for us, I now want to go back to school.”

Daniel was losing himself in addiction, but he is now on a better path. He said, “I’ll never get bored of coming here because it’s a beautiful, unique environment in which I encounter that peace that I couldn’t find elsewhere.”

Many youth and adults—like Nely and Daniel—are making positive changes in their lives thanks to the “Weaving Ties” program. “Many people, in many small places, doing small things, can change the world,” said a Salesian with the Salesian Mission Office in Buenos Aires.

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.

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

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ANS – Argentina – Creating hope, weaving bonds

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Regional Museum in Rawson, Argentina, has received the Fitterling Fund, a collection of 500 ceramics, including intact pieces and fragments, made in Pre-Columbian times in northwestern Argentina. The collection reflects different cultures, techniques, and beliefs, including Ciénaga, Aguada, Aguada Portezuelo, Yocavil, Belén Vaquería, and Inca. The pieces were created approximately between A.D. 400 and 1480.

The collection belonged to a private individual who collected the pieces during the 1960s and 1970s. After his death, and according to the new patrimonial criteria established by the province of Chubut, his children decided to give the collection to the Salesian Regional Museum as the holder. The museum is responsible for conserving this heritage as well as promoting the knowledge of the Fitterling Fund to the community of Rawson and the surrounding area.

The museum was created as a school museum in 1941 inside the Don Bosco school in Rawson. A group of 6th-year students, together with their teacher José Morell, were tasked with collecting artifacts within the community and on educational trips. Today, the museum offers visitors over 6,000 exhibits that highlight regional history and Salesian history, which includes the installation of the first printing press, the first hospital, the Salesian school for boys and girls, and other historical projects.

“The Salesian Regional Museum is committed to supporting education and culture,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “It continues to grow and expand its collection to provide the local community and tourists with a part of history.”

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.

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

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ANS – Argentina – Rawson’s Salesian Regional Museum receives a new pre-Columbian collection

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Father Miguel Bonuccelli Institute of Higher Studies, based in Río Grande, Argentina, has graduated 32 new teachers who have taken courses in initial education, primary education and music education. The music program was first launched in 2017, and these are the first graduates of the program.

During the graduation ceremony, the new teachers each lit a candle to represent their dedication and responsibility to the teaching profession. Father Claudia Simón, rector of the institute, said, “We have dreamed of this program for many years, but now we have the first graduates of the training course for music teachers. As Don Bosco said ‘A Salesian house without music is like a body without a soul.’”

Fr. Simón highlighted the lessons learned by the graduates during their time at the institute. He said, “For many of you, last year, internships seemed impossible, dreams vanished. But, together, we learned not to let any obstacle put us down, and moved by hope, we tried to find a solution.  We met managers and teachers who opened the virtual doors of their classrooms and schools and their hearts, and we understood that it was possible to practice teaching through the digital medium.”

In closing his remarks, Fr. Simón added, “As a community, we are pleased because the objectives set have largely been achieved, and the result is you the new teachers who leave this Salesian house today with the certainty that it will always be your home. Educators who take on the responsibility and commitment to exercise their ministry and their profession on the basis of an ethics anchored to human and evangelical values, eager to listen, respecting the reality of every boy and girl.”

Salesian Father Miguel Bonuccelli Institute of Higher Studies has issued certifications valid at the national level since 1979. After 42 years of work, it continues to train professionals committed to inclusive education.

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

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ANS – Argentina – First Music Teachers graduate from “Fr Miguel Bonuccelli Institute”

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) Over the last several years many wine makers have graduated from the Salesian Center in Rodeo del Medio, Argentina, and work around the globe. Youth come away from the program learning the value of the winemaking work and have a respect for nature. The center has constantly evolved over its history.

The first bottle of Catholic Mass wine was produced in the center 120 years ago. Today, with the support of the Catholic University of Cuyo Salesiano, the center continues to educate youth and produce excellent wines.

In 1901, lessons in viticulture and enology began and the experimental cellar where wines are made was built. In 1905, the first workshop was created in a small room with a wooden table, running water and lighting with paraffin lamps. Starting in the 1930s, the center expanded to teach the cultivation of olives.

In 1965, Salesian missionaries launched the first faculty of oenology in Latin America. Following that, a wine tower was designed and launched to respond to the expanding wine industry in 1968. The wine tower allowed for larger volumes of wine to be created to keep up with the growing market demand.

In 1983, Salesian missionaries expanded the educational offerings in the field of winemaking with degrees in professional winemaking. Later, in 2007, the entire wine cellar was updated with new technologies for the production of wine and to increase the level of education offered. Today, many of the world’s great wine authorities graduated from the Salesian Center.

The Salesian Center in Rodeo del Medio is not the only winemaking education offered by the Salesians. The Don Bosco School of winemaking and viticulture in the city of Mendoza is in its 55th year in the heart of Argentina’s wine country. The world-renowned school has consistently maintained high standards in the science and art of winemaking.

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

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ANS – Argentina – Rodeo del Medio: a Center of Oenological Excellence and Salesian Education

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian oratory in Cipolletti, a city in the Patagonian province of Río Negro, Argentina, has launched the “It’s a thing of the heart” project to provide school support and food assistance to children. Many children in the neighboring communities are poor and their families need assistance providing proper nutrition, along with the supplies and support students need to excel in school.

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

“In Salesian programs in Argentina and around the globe, projects have been launched to help poor children and their families with nutritional and education support, especially in the face of the global COVID-19 pandemic,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Due to lockdowns and business closures, more families have slipped further into poverty and need community support. Salesians are doing everything they can to address this growing need.”

The Salesian Missions Office in Buenos Aires, known as For the Youth-Don Bosco, launched a campaign in September to raise funds to help poor youth and their families impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The campaign, which ran from Sept. 13-30, aimed to raise funding to provide food assistance to more than 150,000 families and help support educational initiatives in the region.

The Salesian Missions Office in Argentina supports Salesian projects across the country. The office also publicizes Salesian initiatives and helps to finance many of them with the support of benefactors, companies and other organizations. Argentina is among the five countries most affected by COVID-19 in Latin America.

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

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ANS – Argentina – Oratories of the Salesian house in Cipolletti give school support and food assistance

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Missions Office in Buenos Aires, Argentina, known as For the Youth-Don Bosco, has launched a new campaign to raise funds to help poor youth and their families impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The campaign, which runs from Sept. 13-30, is called “Let’s Feed & Educate” and aims to raise funding to provide food assistance to more than 150,000 families and help support educational initiatives in the region.

“As we all know, the health, social and educational crisis caused by COVID-19 continues, and our work as Salesians continues to respond to the needs of those who suffer most,” said Brother Ariel Fresia,  director of the Salesian Missions Office in Argentina. “We encouraged all to give to the campaign to help us provide these important services in our communities.”

The Salesian Missions Office in Argentina supports Salesian projects across the country. The office also publicizes Salesian initiatives and helps to finance many of them with the support of benefactors, companies and other organizations. Argentina is among the five countries most affected by COVID-19 in Latin America.

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

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

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

ANS – Argentina – The emergency continues, as does the supportive response!

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian House in Rawson, the capital city of the Argentine province of Chubut, a sparsely populated region located at the southern end of South America, has a project that creates and donates blankets for families in need during the winter months. The project, which began in 2010, was initially launched by a young girl in the Salesian school in Rawson who wanted to give back to her community.

When the project first started, seven blankets were made and donated to families in Rawson and the Chubut plateau region. Given the project’s effectiveness and the gratitude of beneficiaries, more people have joined the initiative and the number of blankets grew to 70 in 2019.

Seamstresses and weavers from across the country have helped create the blankets. There are also volunteers who deliver small squares of fabric that are then joined to form a blanket. Other people donate wool and some deliver the finished blankets.

The project was also able to remain active during 2020 at the height of the pandemic. Families knitted from their homes and then sent what they had created to the Salesian Home in Rawson. The closing event was carried out through a videoconference and was completed with an online sewing training session.

In 2021, 30 blankets have already been woven and many have already been given to families in need. This year, blankets were also provided to people in the Andean Comarca region in support of those impacted by the recent fires there.

“This project is a way for people to give back to their community and provides a gesture of goodwill to their neighbors,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “The project has grown substantially since it first started helping families in need get through the winter months. It is one among many services provided by Salesian programs in the region.”

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

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

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ANS – Argentina – “Afrazados” project reaches its 11th edition

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: Blanket project started by schoolgirl grows first appeared on MissionNewswire.

ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) Youth groups from the Don Bosco Center in Bahía Blanca, a city in the southwest province of Buenos Aires, Argentina, have resumed activities in the courtyard that had been previously suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Valdocco Theater, the Family Catechesis, the Explorers and members of the Missionary Childhood returned as coordinators rethink the youth activities under the current guidelines.

“As more activities resume for Salesian organizations in Argentina and around the globe, Salesian staff are still having to modify how the programs are facilitated,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesian programs have remained agile through the pandemic and are working to continue to provide services, while meeting safety guidelines, to help support youth and their families.”

Salesian missionaries offer programs in Bahía Blanca to help at-risk youth. The Don Bosco Boys program has grown considerably since it was started in 2001 to provide shelter and food for the city’s growing homeless population and for people who made a meager by living collecting newspapers and cardboard from the garbage.

Salesian Father Pablo Mardoni, from the Don Bosco Institute in Bahía Blanca, began the program with support from a small group of teachers and students. Later, they were joined by people from nearby districts who wanted to assist. Today, Don Bosco Boys provides outreach, a playground, an oratory and a homeless shelter.

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

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

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ANS – Argentina – Youth groups of Salesian house in Bahía Blanca resume their activities

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: At-risk youth return to activities first appeared on MissionNewswire.

ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian-run St. Antonio da Padova House, located in city of Córdoba, in northern Argentina, has more than 1,200 children and older youth in its program. St. Antonio da Padova House provides ongoing support and education for these youth in need.

St. Antonio da Padova House has schools, a youth center and a parish where youth are immersed in a family environment and are taught with respect and appreciation. Youth are able to access primary and secondary education along with vocational training. St. Antonio da Padova House also provides a secondary school for adults.

Many of the youth who attend St. Antonio da Padova House programs come from impoverished families that have survived through informal, short-term jobs or face unemployment; are without access to quality education and adequate housing; and are at risk of violence and dependence on substances.

In addition to the formal education and support programs offered, Salesian missionaries also focus on a greener environment. They offer environmental workshops and “green islands” where small plants have been planted. In addition, the electrical wiring has been remodeled to make it safer and more efficient, and solar panels have also been installed in some of the classrooms.

“Children and older youth who come from challenging backgrounds have a chance for a better life through the programs offered by St. Antonio da Padova House,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Here they have the care and support of adults, can access education from primary school right through to vocational training and can develop relationships with their peers in a safe environment.”

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

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

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ANS – Argentina – Commitment of “St Antonio da Padova” House : educate for better future

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: More than 1,200 children and youth have access to quality education first appeared on MissionNewswire.

ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) Ivan Peñalva is a 25-year-old law student and member of the University Missionary Project initiated by the Salesian Youth Movement in the Córdoba Province in Argentina. He recently started new volunteer service at the Don Bosco House in Formosa.

At the Don Bosco House, children have breakfast, do their homework and catch up with their lessons. It is a pleasant and joyful educational environment where, in addition to studying, youth feel listened to, supported and loved. Volunteers work together with professional staff to provide school support to children who have difficulty carrying out virtual lessons for various reasons including lack of computers or internet.

Peñalva said, “It was a gift from God in these times of the pandemic and an enormous joy to be able to be with children again after a long time. I enjoy the educational environment.”

He added, “At the beginning of their lessons children had discouraged looks and some gave curt answers to personal questions. These no longer exist and now they have looks of joy, the greetings are warm. They are happy to be focused on their homework with the help we provide.”

Volunteers like Mariel have stepped up as well. She noted she is doing everything in her power to help children continue their studies. She keeps in touch with families by phone, pays attention to deadlines for reporting expenses, gives them the tools to do their homework and helps them.

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

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

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

ANS – Argentina – Joy of giving (and giving oneself) more and better

Salesian Youth Movement

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: Children receive support for learning during pandemic first appeared on MissionNewswire.

ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Parents Union from Don Bosco School in San Luis, Argentina, carried out a solidarity campaign called “Leaving footprints in exchange for smiles.” The campaign, which was held in September and October, collected 300 pairs of shoes for those in need. The shoes were delivered to the soup kitchens at Dejando Huellas and the Rincon de Luz Foundation, both located in the southern area of ​​the city of San Luis.

According to the promoters of the initiative, the collaboration and participation of the whole community made it possible to achieve the objectives and produced immense joy for all those involved.

“My wife and I have been part of the Parents Union for five years,” said Diego Coronel, president of the Parents Union and promoter of the campaign. “We enrolled in our son’s first year of school. We were invited to participate, and there I found a place to work for the good of this Salesian community where our children receive education and support.”

During a visit to the soup kitchens of the city, the operators told him that although there are many unmet needs, shoes are what is most needed. Coronel added, “We were told there are children who don’t have any kind of shoes, so they just walk around barefoot.”

The Parents Union members received a list of names with matching sizes and started the campaign, eventually collecting more than 300 pairs of shoes. This is one initiative among. The Parents Union volunteers independently plan and carry out specific activities as well as collaborate on events developed by the Salesian school. Every May, volunteers produce and distribute the traditional Mary Help of Christians chocolate for more than 700 students and parents.

Coronel hopes that these volunteer experiences and support to the community also serve as an example to their children. He said, “I hope to pass on the values ​​that matter, that of equality above all, empathy toward others, humility, respect, solidarity, commitment, work, effort, the value of friendship, gratitude always, and then let them do what makes them happy.”

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

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

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ANS – Argentina – Leave an imprint, in exchange for a smile

Don Bosco School San Luis Facebook

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: Shoes collected for families in need first appeared on MissionNewswire.

ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian St. Giovanni Bosco and St. Domenico Savio Parish, located in Cordoba, Argentina, has been offering an Educational Integration Scholarships program since 2007 in collaboration with the BBVA Group. The goal is to support adolescents between 12 and 19 years old whose families have a low level of income and are unable to financially support their education. These scholarships ensure youth have a chance to gain an education and stay in school until completion.

Education can pose a dilemma for many poor youth. They need an education for upward economic mobility and the achievement of social equity, but in many places, they can not access a quality education due to the cost.

The Educational Integration Scholarships program addresses this inequality by providing financial assistance to young people in vulnerable situations so that they can continue their studies. Furthermore, it assigns each student a tutor who has the responsibility to provide direct support to the student.

Mariel is one of the volunteer tutors who offers student support through St. Giovanni Bosco and St. Domenico Savio Parish. Youth who attend this school support program come from the slums of El Tropezón. Mariel noted that some of the scholarship money is used to help youth purchase books, photocopies and school materials, as well as items for personal hygiene, snacks and transport costs to and from school.

“Aid in many ways is an incentive, especially for the older ones. Most of the purchases are made by the mothers, but the older ones organize themselves with their purchases, plan, calculate and analyze,” said Mariel.

This year, due to the pandemic and forced isolation, many families have been left without income. Children and youth have stopped attending school because of closures, so the scholarship funding was aimed mainly at the purchase of food for their survival during these challenging times.

Students have also struggled with getting their homework completed during the pandemic. Many of these youth and their families have relatively old phones that are shared among the whole family. The internet may reach them only intermittently, and many of them do not know how to handle computer programs or tools such as Word, Excel or Google Drive. This has made remote learning nearly impossible for some.

Salesian missionaries are working to address these challenges. Volunteers like Mariel have stepped up as well. She noted she is doing everything in her power to help children continue their studies. She keeps in touch with families by phone, pays attention to deadlines for reporting expenses, gives them the tools to do their homework and helps them.

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

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

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

ANS – Argentina – Scholarships for Educational Integration

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: Scholarships help poor youth stay in school first appeared on MissionNewswire.

ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) Normal activities facilitated by the Salesian Youth Movement in Argentina have been canceled over the last several months due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Salesian Youth Movement could not hold its regular camps, oratories, meetings, rallies and retreats. In response, a group of boys and girls from the Salesian Youth Movement in Rosario decided to use humor to address the situation and bring joy to one another and young children.

The idea emerged as a way to support one another during isolation. In full compliance with the health regulations on social distancing, various audiovisual productions were made in an attempt to make quarantine more enjoyable. The first video produced, which featured the “Don Boscosas” Kit, made everyone laugh.

“It all started with the idea of ​​making a video for all children, who due to the pandemic, could not go to their oratories or groups,” explained Franco, from the Virgen de Caacupé oratory. “The idea of ​​the video was to show everything we lack in those places and to trigger an identification mechanism. I also believe that humor and joy are the most subtle and effective way to give a message and make the development of any project much more fun and bearable.”

Ezequiel, another animator said, “It all started with the need to bring the playground to children in these times of isolation; to encourage them and accompany them with a little humor.”

Martín added, “I think we can say that we have achieved this objective.”

What began as a form of support for youth in Rosario ended up inspiring youth in other parts of the country. Gastón noted, “It helped us to understand that we can increase the confidence and self-esteem of each other and learn how to be more responsible with the commitment of the project undertaken. It allowed us to explore new ways to express ourselves, since the children not only had to plan and write the videos but also act them, sing and improvise. I think it helped me to bond with others and learn to work as a team with the kids.”

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

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

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ANS – Argentina – Always cheerful: boys and girls accompany other young people in the name of humor

Salesian Missions – Argentina

Don Bosco Norte Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: Salesian Youth Movement in Rosario creates new activities for youth during the coronavirus pandemic first appeared on MissionNewswire.

ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) Four students, who are in their fifth year at Don Bosco Technical Institute León XIII and part of the Atlas Group in Buenos Aires, Argentina, won a competition sponsored by NASA. The students designed a car and beat out 35 other projects from 11 countries to participate in the first race to be held on the moon. The race is organized by the Moon Mark group and is scheduled for October 2021.

Nicolás Macullan, Pablo Molina Ruiz, Federico Muzzio and Francisco Yennacaro knew each other at school and had already worked together. To be successful they divided their tasks. Macullan took care of the ideas for the car’s suspension. Ruiz handled 3D design and software. Muzzio researched the moon’s natural conditions, and Yennacaro took care of the necessary calculations.

The pace of work was challenging. The competition lasted a month, and there was a task that had to be completed each week. Ruiz said, “During the last two weeks of the project, we had been fighting against time. We thought we were done, and then realized that something was missing. We had to start over.”

Yennacaro noted, “It was fantastic. The experts were surprised to see that 17-year-olds were able to do in four weeks what many engineering students take several months to do.”

The natural conditions of the moon, where temperatures vary from –100° C to +100° C, were one of the great challenges. Macullan said, “We rushed to read a NASA manual on the production of microsatellites, looking for ideas.”

At the Salesian school, the four learned about 3D design and engine operations, along with the right method to face the challenge. Macullan added, “They taught us to work on projects, for real life. And they gave us the values ​​to work in a group.”

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

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

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

ANS – Argentina – Salesian students win NASA competition: their car to participate in first Moon race

Don Bosco Technical Institute León XIII

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: Four students from Don Bosco Technical Institute León XIII win competition sponsored by NASA first appeared on MissionNewswire.

ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Oratory in Santiago del Estero, Argentina, continues its “Young farmers, towards responsible and sustainable participation” project, which was launched in 2018. The project provides basic training in environmental subjects and includes workshops, separate waste collection and the creation of agro-ecological gardens.

Pope Francis’ Encyclical Laudato Sì underlines the importance of education and training capable of shaping a lifestyle and fostering environmental responsibility. The foundation of environmental education should be provided early to impact future generations.

The first objective of the project was encouraging the environmental commitment of youth. Thanks to the contribution of JuWe Vereinigung Don Bosco Werk in Switzerland, multiple initiatives have been developed over almost two years to help achieve this.

Although some workshops have been suspended during the coronavirus lockdown period, workshops have also been developed. These include courses in autochthonous forest and forest nursery, management of native forests and forests, agro-ecological gardens, and education and environmental management.

In 2019, the Don Bosco Oratory created an agro-ecological vegetable garden and a separate collection and recycling system for waste in the oratory building. Given how successful the program has been to date, staff with the oratory are working to bring project initiatives to the community.

A new project set to launch will provide a virtual environmental program to help teach families and children to create their own gardens at home. The Don Bosco Oratory is working on gathering seeds to be planted and obtaining the permits necessary to meet official regulations. Salesian staff members are also assessing local climate conditions where youth live so that their horticultural activity can be carried out with success.

“This is a wonderful time for families to be focused on learning skills to plant their own gardens and harvest their own food,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “This new project will have a positive impact on food assistance for the families and teach responsibility for youth.”

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

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

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ANS – Argentina – Home vegetable gardens: to continue taking care of the “common home”

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

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ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco School, located in the city of Ramos Mejía, Argentina, has collaborated with the municipality of La Matanza to create an isolation center that will welcome the elderly affected by COVID-19. The school’s retreat house will host 250 beds for those in isolation.

Mayor Fernando Espinoza thanked the Salesian school for its efforts during a tour of the facility. He said, “This is an institution that is indeed a high mark of La Matanza, a house where values ​​are taught and which has an excellent educational level. And today, once again, we see how the Don Bosco School is helping, even more than usual, our community, giving up its structures to create a large place of isolation with 250 beds in this moment of crisis for our elderly.”

He added, “We hope not to have to use these beds, which add to the 4,000 isolation beds that we will have throughout La Matanza, but if we need them, we are already prepared. We are, however, grateful that this historic retreat house is available here because it is a comfortable place with lots of light and green spaces that create a welcoming atmosphere, which favors the elderly, raising their morale in these difficult times.”

At the end of the tour, Espinoza again appealed to everyone in the vicinity. “We hope we never have to use this place that we have prepared together with the Don Bosco School. To achieve this we must be supportive, responsible and aware of each other. Today, the only defense we have is respect for social isolation. Today, the only vaccine we have is that each of us fulfills the motto: I stay at home.”

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

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

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

ANS – Argentina – Retreat house of “Don Bosco” school in Ramos Mejía, now an isolation center for elderly

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: Don Bosco School collaborates with the municipality of La Matanza to set up 250 isolation beds in school’s retreat house first appeared on MissionNewswire.

ARGENTINA

(MissionNewswire) Across Argentina, Salesians are responding to the coronavirus pandemic in their programs and communities in which they live. They are preparing and delivering meals, producing sanitizing gels and masks, and bringing supplies to poor families.

In Río Grande, Salesian missionaries are preparing sacks of food with fresh vegetables and distributing them in the city’s working-class neighborhoods. The Salesian mission of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians also has a greenhouse. A group of teachers and Salesians has collected fresh vegetables from the greenhouse and is delivering it to the chapels in the Margen Sur area, where the most popular housing blocks and neighborhoods are located.

In Almagro, a district of Buenos Aires, most of the Salesian schools and programs are closed but the refectory remains open. Food is prepared for 150 people, about 35 families, but close to 250 people show up each day. Federico Tirelli, director of the refectory, said, “There are families who attend the refectory every day but there are others now from the school and youth groups who need a hand and also receive food.”

Also, in Buenos Aires, in the municipality of Quilmes, there are thousands of poor boys and young people who Salesian missionaries routinely assist. The local Salesian center is remaining open for now so that young people can find a meal to nourish themselves.

The Salesian San José Center in Rosario is producing disinfectant sanitizing gel and masks and prepares food for people living on the street. The center is located in Rosario’s city center where it is estimated that there are more than 500 people living on the street, as well as many others living in precarious conditions. In the coming days, the Salesians plan to distribute food to more than 500 people, organizing a network of volunteers with all the necessary security and safety measures in place.

People living in Santiago del Estero are also in need of nutrition support. In response, Salesians are delivering bags of food and supplies for families living in the slums. “We think of many people who survive every day based on what they collect working on the street,” said Father Silvio Torres, director of the Salesian community. “For this reason, with the contributions of various companies and organizations within the province, we give families food parcels and educational material.”

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

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

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

ANS – Argentina – Map of Salesian hope for poor suffering from COVID-19

Salesian Missions – Argentina

World Bank – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: Salesian programs across the country are responding with nutritional support to families in need first appeared on MissionNewswire.

In 2018, Salesian missionaries restructured the physical location where the project training is held. They constructed a new greenhouse, launched the production of aromatic plants, modernized the apiary and build the infrastructure for an educational laboratory and tool room. Soon after, they launched the courses.

“Salesian missionaries are faced with challenging economic conditions in Rodeo del Medio and are implementing ways to expand the scope of training offered so graduates can more easily find employment,” says Father Mark Hyde, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Because Salesian missionaries work where they live, they know the local employment landscape. They develop training that meets the market need so Salesian students can successfully find employment.”

Rodeo del Medio is mostly rural with 72 percent of its population relying on farming for income. There is a lack of employment opportunities which creates a culture of non-work and has led to many students leaving school early. Often, out of work youth make choices that put them at-risk of violence and addiction.

The Don Bosco Institute has expanded its educational offerings over the years and currently includes primary and secondary schooling and technical-vocational training. A goal of the Salesian missionaries operating the institute is to provide courses of study that motivate youth and give them a sense of pride in their work.

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

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

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Sources:

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

ANS – Argentina – “Germinating young entrepreneurs”: offering vocational training

World Bank – Argentina

Salesian Missions – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: Salesian missionaries launch new Germinating Young Entrepreneurs project in Rodeo del Medio first appeared on MissionNewswire.

Project activities begin during the school year with project staff gathering information about Salesian programs that are most in need and then presenting the information to Salesian center directors, heads of educational centers and other Salesian employees in order to facilitate support and assistance among the Salesian centers.

In this first phase, a video is shown that presents some of the work that will benefit from a collaboration. Some families that are paying tuition to attend Salesian schools are able to offer an additional monthly donation in order to help fund these collaborative projects. This donation is a way for families who have the means to help give back and support those who don’t.

Recently, the “Amarrando Redes de Solidaridad” project launched a video presentation about its work with the Salesian San José Vocational Training Center in Salta, Argentina. In 2015, the center started a new educational program through the Salesian house Ángel Zerda in agreement with the Ministry of Education.

Launched to meet the needs expressed by unemployed youth and adults as well as those with incomplete studies, the San José Vocational Training Center offers short courses with immediate work opportunities and skills certification.

In the first year, 150 students, both men and women between the ages of 18 and 35, participated in coursework. The students came from poor neighborhoods in Salta and struggled with complex challenges such as criminal records, dependencies or past family violence.

In this Salesian center, vocational and technical training has become an instrument and an opportunity for educational, social and productive reintegration and a way to improve the quality of personal and family life for the students.

“The center currently offers young people courses in plumbing, painting for construction, electricity and advanced electricity. The courses we offer are short and provide a quick exit, so that the young can work immediately,” says Gimena Carrizo who works at the San José Vocational Training Center.

Daniel Núñez, who is enrolled in the electricity course, says, “This is a great opportunity for us, a complete course for young people who need it. Right now, it’s a great benefit for me because I do not have a job.”

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

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

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Sources:

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

ANS – Argentina – “Tying Networks of Solidarity”: project to support projects for young people

World Bank – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: Salesian Blessed Artemide Zatti Province of Northern Argentina solidarity project aims to support local Salesian centers in the region first appeared on MissionNewswire.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Salesian Missions Projects

World Bank – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: More than 1,200 Salesian students have access to new computers and training thanks to Salesian Missions donor first appeared on MissionNewswire.

Víctor was born in Santiago del Estero and lived with his parents, his grandmother and five brothers. There was no lack of affection in the home while growing up but daily life was not easy. The family lived in poverty and the lack of money forced him to sleep on the ground. Victor wanted to help his family but as a child, did not have many opportunities to do so.

“I was a rebel and behaved badly,” recalls Victor. “I came home late. Sometimes I went out and did not come back without telling my parents. Also, communication between my brothers was challenged. We could not even sit down at the table because we looked at each other badly.”

At the time, education was not a priority in Victor’s life but once Victor discovered the Don Bosco Oratory, that changed. Through his friends, he got to know the Salesian missionaries operating the oratory and once he entered into the program, he did not want to leave.

“My life has changed and they make me feel at home,” says Victor. “Fernando called me and made me one of the group.”

Victor speaks with gratitude for the Salesian missionaries who helped him on his journey. He recalls Father Julián Arroyo and the coordinators, Mario and Daniela. Together with many other collaborators, they support the project which organizes snacks, guitar lessons, a bakery workshop, sports and educational meetings daily.

There are more than 80 boys and girls who participate in this educational project. Among them are those from remote villages such as Quimilí and Campo Gallo. Víctor is currently studying to become a hairdresser and eventually wants to become a chef to fulfill his dream of opening his own business. He knows he can do it.

“Thanks to the oratory, today I think of a future for myself and for my family,” says Victor. “The oratory has changed me a lot as a person. They look at me with different eyes. I am surprised at the treatment they give me. Here they make me feel at home. I haven’t forgotten my past, but I love what is happening to me. My life has changed.”

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

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

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Sources:

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

ANS – Argentina – Víctor “My life has changed” with the project “Tejiendo Lazos”

World Bank – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: The Salesian educational project Tejiendo Lazos (Weaving Ties) at the Don Bosco Oratory is providing youth a second chance for a better life first appeared on MissionNewswire.

The Don Bosco Oratory includes a residence for boys who attend the Don Bosco secondary school in Santiago del Estero. The housing is offered free for 29 students who are between the ages of 12 and 18 and who are from the areas of Las Tinajas, Copo, Alberdi, Moreno and San José de Boquerón.

From Monday to Friday the boys stay at the residence. They get up, do homework or other activities and at midday they prepare for lunch. They set the table and after meals they wash the dishes and tidy up. The school of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima opens its doors to them in the afternoon. On their return home, the boys have snacks and at the end of the day attend workshops and take baking and electro-technical courses or spend time playing sports.

Every activity and program offered is based on community support. Morning school support is provided by volunteers and meals are provided by local companies and shops. The Planning and Development Office of the Salesian Province Blessed Artemide Zatti of Northern Argentina works together with various organizations and foundations interested in supporting the Salesian work in Santiago del Estero.

“Community partnerships and support help to ensure Salesian programs have everything they need to serve youth in Argentina and around the globe,” says Father Mark Hyde, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesian education aims to open doors for poor and at-risk youth and help them gain the job skills needed to find work in the local economy, support their families and give back to their communities.”

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

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

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Sources:

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

ANS – Argentina – Don Bosco Oratory is extremely poor, but wants to give young people quality education

World Bank – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: Don Bosco Oratory provides a residence supported by the community for 29 youth who attend the local Salesian school first appeared on MissionNewswire.

The new structure was made possible thanks to the contribution of the Swiss Papalin Foundation and the Swiss Don Bosco Jugendhilfe Weltweit. The new building will house five new vocational training courses, one for each day of the week, in collaboration with the Cultural Institute of the province.

The courses, which will last for four months, will be led by members of the Qom community, one of the country’s Aboriginal ethnic groups. Courses in pottery, the preparation of baskets, wind instruments, string instruments and other instruments will be offered.

“The students attending these skills training classes are from families and communities that have been marginalized and have very few opportunities for education and job advancement,” says Father Mark Hyde, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesian education aims to open doors for these individuals and help them gain the job skills needed to find work in the local economy and be able to support their families and give back to their communities.”

The Salesian Center in Resistencia was initially established on Dec. 8, 1941. Father Horacio Lóvine, Father Juan Rolando and Salesian Coadjutor Francisco Marozzi had been sent to Resistencia to open an oratory for youth and then later an institute. On June 21, 1942, six months after the start of the oratory, the Don Bosco Institute opened. The institute was started initially with 150 students, 45 of whom resided in the internal boarding house.

The structures built for the Salesian Institute also included a vocational training center for youth and adults and a higher formation institute, where since its inception, hundreds have been trained in many different job sectors and fields.

Salesian programs across Argentina are primarily focused on education. Salesian primary and secondary education in Argentina helps youth prepare for later technical, vocational or university study. Programs also help to support poor youth and their families meet basic needs of shelter, proper nutrition and medical care in order for students to engage in their education and have hope for the future.

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

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ANS – Argentina – A new building for Intercultural Vocational Training Center

World Bank – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: Salesian Intercultural Vocational Training Center launches new building to provide additional vocational training courses first appeared on MissionNewswire.

This center, which also operates the Ángel Zerda Salesian Institute, is among 13 Salesian centers across Argentina that offer a similar program. The purpose of this project is to reduce the unemployment and job insecurity of people who, due to their socioeconomic vulnerability, do not have access to education, have not completed their basic education or have not obtained professional qualifications.

San José Vocational Training Center opened in 2015 in response to the overwhelming need in the region for skills training so that both youth and adults have the opportunities to gain an education to find and retain long-term, stable employment. Since its opening, hundreds of students have attended class and graduated. In addition to accessing job opportunities they wouldn’t have had otherwise, they have challenged themselves to improve their self-esteem, safety, spirituality and quality of life.

“The students attending these evening skills training classes are from families and communities that have been marginalized and have very few opportunities for education and job advancement,” says Father Mark Hyde, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesian education aims to open doors for these individuals and help them gain the job skills needed to find work in the local economy and be able to support their families and give back to their communities.”

Salesian programs across Argentina are primarily focused on education. Salesian primary and secondary education in Argentina helps youth prepare for later technical, vocational or university study. Programs also help to support poor youth and their families meet basic needs of shelter, proper nutrition and medical care in order for students to engage in their education and have hope for the future.

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

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ANS – Argentina – “Laboratory students begin to arrive … mostly poor”: “San José” Vocational Training Center

World Bank – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: San José Vocational Training Center offers free vocational training to marginalized youth and adults first appeared on MissionNewswire.

The initiative is the result of the work carried out by the local Salesian Planning and Development office. The goal is to create a climate of fraternity that St. John (Don) Bosco always promoted among Salesians. The project started with presentations to Salesian centers that offer services to vulnerable children. The presentation highlights the benefits of working together to tackle the many societal issues that children’s face.

Thanks to the generous dedication of many, the necessary help is brought together to strengthen the educational-pastoral proposals of the various Salesian centers throughout the year. For instance, in 2018, the Salesian center Oratorio Domingo y Laura of Corrientes was chosen. The goal was to help this Salesian center create a proposal for support so it could continue its programming educating children, older youth and adults.

“The stand out of our center is our vocational training program, which offers youth four-month courses that provide them the opportunity to learn a useful trade for their life,” says Dario A., director of Oratorio Domingo y Laura of Corrientes. “The center offers courses for hairdressers, cooks, tailors, carpenters, furniture manufacturers, electricians, air conditioning systems repairers as well as scholastic support. The desire is to train these young people so they can work.”

“Sometimes looking at the young, there are those who say that there are no solutions, that they are all delinquents. But at the oratory we have shown the opposite, that it is possible to change,” says one of the teachers are the program.

Through this project, Salesian missionaries from various Salesian programs across the region are coming together to learn from one another and offer each other support on how to improve the quality of education and social development services offered to poor youth and their families.

Salesian programs in Argentina are primarily focused on education. Salesian primary and secondary education in Argentina helps youth prepare for later technical, vocational or university study. Programs also help to support poor youth and their families meet basic needs of shelter, proper nutrition and medical care in order for students to engage in their education and have hope for the future.

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

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ANS – Argentina – At the oratory we are demonstrating … that change is possible, Amarrando Redes de Solidaridad

World Bank – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: Salesian missionaries develop collaborative project to assist and support local efforts for poor youth and their families first appeared on MissionNewswire.

“We think the biodigestore can be technology that solves environmental problems, both in terms of clean energy and the need to dispose of waste,” says Dr. Perera. “We do not have an accurate estimate of the savings we will have with the biodigestore, but we will gradually increase gas production. The cost to run this technology is very high for a school with limited resources, so we will work with a lab the Salesians have in Germany and establish links with the German government, which has funded this project.”

As a fuel, the biodigestore will count on whey from the dairy industry, animal manure, mainly from pigs, as the school has 60 sows, plus waste material from its 220 dairy cows and about 1,000 chickens. Salesian missionaries teaching at the school note that they are able to include related content about the biodigestore in various subjects offered to students. In addition, as part of their training, students will learn about technical issues related to the biodigestore so they are able to deal with its proper functioning.

The Salesian Agricultural School teaches young farmers a basic education as well as advanced studies in the latest agricultural practices and modern technologies. It also helps move toward more efficiency in farming by exploring and testing new techniques in agriculture, horticulture, floriculture and animal husbandry. Salesian agricultural schools provide both classroom education and hands-on agriculture and livestock training on a working farm on the school campus. With a long history of providing agricultural education, missionaries currently operate more than 90 agriculture schools around the world.

“Many of our students at Salesian agriculture schools are the children of poor farmers,” says Father Mark Hyde, executive director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “We want to provide youth with new farming knowledge and skills so they can make a good life for themselves while helping to support their families and community.”

Salesian programs in Argentina are primarily focused on education. Salesian primary and secondary education in Argentina helps youth prepare for later technical, vocational or university study. Programs also help to support poor youth and their families meet basic needs of shelter, proper nutrition and medical care in order for students to engage in their education and have hope for the future.

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

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ANS – Argentina – Salesian agricultural school to produce energy from waste

World Bank – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: Salesian Agricultural School launches new biodigestore to turn agriculture waste into clean energy first appeared on MissionNewswire.

“The floods hit us hard, causing the whole kindergarten to be flooded,” says Luis Goitea, the kindergarten’s director. “Unfortunately, this was quite devastating to our program and the children of our community. Now with the Salesian students’ help, there is a feeling of deep joy because this has shown me that we have really great youth in our community willing to give back.”

While the kindergarten efforts were made, students from the Domingo Savio were visiting homes and neighborhood institutions to assist people hit by the flood damage. The help was part of their “Experience of Service” project.

“Basically, we came to clean up and paint the children’s games and remove the piles of mud from the yard behind the garden,” said Ramiro Cárdenas, one of the students who participated in the activity.

Jorge Mango, who accompanied the students in carrying out the project, emphasized that the work was done voluntarily by students who help people however they can. Whether it’s to fix a fence, clean up or paint, Mango noted that the youth in the program are committed to giving back to their communities and those in need.

Salesian programs in Argentina are primarily focused on education. Salesian primary and secondary education in Argentina helps youth prepare for later technical, vocational or university study. Programs also help to support poor youth and their families meet basic needs of shelter, proper nutrition and medical care in order for students to engage in their education and have hope for the future.

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

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ANS – Argentina – What is the situation in Comodoro Rivadavia? A service experience

World Bank – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: Salesian Students Launch Service Project to Help City Kindergarten Clean and Repair After Flooding first appeared on MissionNewswire.

Salesian Father Pablo Mardoni from the Don Bosco Institute of Bahia Blanca began the program with support from a small group of teachers and students. Later they were joined by people from nearby districts who wanted to assist. Today, Don Bosco Boys provides outreach, a playground, an oratory and homeless shelter. Every Tuesday evening, volunteers bring food to about 30 people who are living on the street. As they deliver the food, volunteers are able to speak with the people, learn more about their situation and suggest programs and services they can access.

On Friday evenings, a meal is provided at the Salesian school for a large number of children and their families from three of the poorest local areas. Also on Fridays, the Salesian playground hosts close to 150 people from the area who come to access various recreational and sports activities. The oratory provides services for local children as well as opens on Saturdays to a larger group from the community. In addition, staff and volunteers with Don Bosco Boys help to build homes for those in need.

“We provide the material as far as possible, sometimes through donations, but often from the pockets of our families,” says Gastón Ruppel, one of the coordinators. “We work from a single standard plan for the bedroom, kitchen and bathroom, always in partnership with the family that will receive it.”

Salesian programs in Argentina are primarily focused on education. Salesian primary and secondary education in Argentina helps youth prepare for later technical, vocational or university study.

“Education is always our primary focus,” says Father Mark Hyde, executive director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “We know youth are dealing with much more than just having access to education. Salesian programs are tailored to meet the needs of the youth in the communities they serve. Homeless and malnourished youth are simply not able to focus effectively on their studies while they struggle to meet their basic needs. Salesian programs provide food, shelter and the school supplies youth need youth to be able to focus on the education provided.”

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

Access to education and training provides a foundation for youth to break the cycle of poverty and gain employment. Salesian missionaries have been working in Argentina to provide educational opportunities to poor youth through schools, technical and agricultural programs and other services that help youth learn skills to gain stable employment.

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ANS PHOTO

ANS – Pibes de Don Bosco (Don Bosco Boys), an idea which is spreading

World Bank – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: Don Bosco Boys Provides Shelter, Nutrition and Education to Assist the Poor and Homeless first appeared on MissionNewswire.

The whole community was invited to participate in collecting blankets and to donate raw material, fabrics, wool or linen to make the blankets. Last year 53 blankets were donated and the goal is to reach even more families this year. Blankets are made for babies and small children as well as the elderly. The project reaches those in the community of Rawson who need assistance and those Salesian missionaries are connected to through the Salesian missions in the surrounding areas.

“The project has a particular tone this year, since we are also making bricks of recycled paper to be used to heat homes in our neighborhood,” says Ivonne Iralde, director of the Don Bosco Institute. “Several schools were involved in the collection of paper, which helped them to learn team building skills and working with one another.”

The project also gave the young students a chance to give back to their own community. Salesian have been working in Argentina to provide educational opportunities to poor youth for many years. Salesian technical and agricultural programs and other services educate youth and help them learn skills to gain stable employment.

“Salesian missionaries are working hard to educate youth in Argentina and provide them a path out of poverty,” says Father Mark Hyde, executive director of Salesian Missions, the U.S development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “The academic and technical programs offered show how education and training not only benefit the individual student, but also entire communities as graduates return home and share the skills they have acquired or start up local businesses.”

In another give back opportunity, Salesian missionaries in Buenos Aires, Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital, launched a campaign to collect school supplies in order to provide poor youth the necessities they need to focus on school and advance in their educational studies. Students attending Salesian schools collected and then donated school supplies to 1,500 Salesian school children in six schools in the neediest areas of the country.

Many students’ families in Argentina are unable to provide the cost for basic school supplies likes pens, pencils, notepads and books. As a result, students are often unprepared for their lessons or cannot take part in classroom activities like other students. Students who are not prepared often suffer academically and have higher rates overall of dropping out of school and not finishing their education. This campaign was a great opportunity for youth to help other students like themselves have the opportunities to excel in school.

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

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ANS – Argentina – Don Bosco Rawson

World Bank- Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: Salesian Students Make Blankets for Poor Families for the Winter Months first appeared on MissionNewswire.

Many students’ families in Argentina are unable to provide the cost for basic school supplies likes pens, pencils, notepads and books. As a result, students are often unprepared for their lessons or cannot take part in classroom activities like other students. Students who are not prepared often suffer academically and have higher rates overall of dropping out of school and not finishing their education.

“Salesian missionaries are working hard to educate youth in Argentina and provide them a path out of poverty,” says Father Mark Hyde, executive director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Sometimes youth need the extra support to stay in school and get an education. This campaign provides that much needed support and stability to help youth achieve.”

Salesian primary and secondary education in Argentina helps youth prepare for later technical, vocational or university study. Working in more than 5,300 Salesian primary and secondary schools around the globe, missionaries educate children in some of the poorest places on the planet. Education gives vulnerable youth a sense of personal dignity and self-worth — breaking the cycle of poverty. At Salesian schools, young children attend classes and participate in sports and other activities. These schools provide them with a safe place to learn and grow.

“Education is always our primary focus,” adds. Fr. Hyde. “We know youth are dealing with much more than just having access to education. Salesian programs are tailored to meet the needs of the youth in the communities they serve. Homeless and malnourished youth are simply not able to focus effectively on their studies while they struggle to meet their basic needs. Salesian programs provide food, shelter and the school supplies youth need youth to be able to focus on the education provided.”

This campaign also provides an opportunity for Salesian students to pay it forward to other students in need. It teaches important lessons in team work and giving back to one’s own community.

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

Access to education and training provides a foundation for youth to break the cycle of poverty and gain employment. Salesians have been working in Argentina to provide educational opportunities to poor youth through schools, technical and agricultural programs and other services that help youth learn skills to gain stable employment.

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PHOTO: ANS

ANS – Argentina – Salesian campaign to collect school materials, “so that children can study better”

World Bank – Poverty in Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: Salesian Campaign Provides School Supplies to 1,500 Students in Need first appeared on MissionNewswire.

Started by Father Francisco Oreglia, a Salesian priest, the Don Bosco School was the first institution of its kind in Latin America and has since become a leader in agro-industrial development both regionally and nationally. Salesian missionaries teaching at the school have witnessed tremendous growth in the winemaking industry throughout the years and today the main Argentinean wineries and agro-industrial establishments rely on the school for its production facilities. Declared “A Provincial Heritage of Tourist Interest”, the Don Bosco School is recognized as the birthplace of winemaking in Argentina.

Originally, the Don Bosco School was developed out of necessity to meet the needs of the local winemakers and fruit growers of the time who required fuller and more mature fruits and winemaking expertise. Farming and winemaking was the backbone of the economy of the Cuyo region and the increasing expansion both in terms of volume and quality required trained technical staff who could receive continuing education to enhance their expertise. Students at the school were often poor local youth who might not otherwise have access to education.

“Salesian missionaries have been working in Argentina to provide educational opportunities to poor youth for many years,” says Father Mark Hyde, executive director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesian technical and agricultural programs and other services educate youth and help them learn skills to gain stable employment.”

“Investing in agriculture education in developing countries is also vital to a community’s livelihood and essential not only to overcoming hunger and poverty, but also to ensuring overall economic growth for surrounding villages and cities,” adds Fr. Hyde.

Salesian missionaries operate more than 90 agricultural schools world-wide and 10 agricultural programs in Argentina alone. In addition to agricultural programs in the country, missionaries run primary and secondary schools as well as technical and vocational programs.

“Salesian missionaries are working hard to educate youth in Argentina and provide them a path out of poverty,” says Fr. Hyde. “The academic and technical programs offered show how education and training not only benefit the individual student, but also entire communities as graduates return home and share the skills they have acquired or start up local businesses.”

Although viewed as a relatively wealthy country, Argentina has a poverty rate of just over 26 percent, according to the World Bank. Close to 4.4 million people live below the poverty line and the country’s high school dropout rate is close to 20 percent. Youth account for one in three of those unemployed.

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ANS – Argentina – 50 years of wine-making

World Bank – Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: Don Bosco School Celebrates 50 Years of Excellence in Winemaking and Viticulture first appeared on MissionNewswire.

Access to education and training provides a foundation for youth to break the cycle of poverty and gain employment. Salesians have been working in Argentina to provide educational opportunities to poor youth through schools, technical and agricultural programs and other services that help youth learn skills to gain stable employment.

At the end of March, the President of Argentina, the Honorable Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, signed a decree for the creation of the Salesian University of Argentina in the city of Bahía Blanca, located in the southwest of the province of Buenos Aires. The decree was delivered to Rector Major Father Ángel Fernández Artime and Professor Marta Pines, during a ceremony which marked the official opening of the university. This decree is the culmination of more than eight years of preparation and development by the Salesian Province of Argentina South and the grant of official approval by the National Commission for University Approval and Accreditation last year.

The new university, set up as a nonprofit, will offer quality education to young people who are looking to continue their academic studies. Its focus is on development and research, advancement in technology, formation of human resources and attention to innovative practices for the common good of the people and the progress of the nation. Coursework will be offered in psychology, law, communication and education, and it is anticipated that additional courses will be added later to meet the specific needs of students.

“For eight years we worked hard to get approval”, said Brother Hugo Carlos Vera, Salesian and academic secretary at the university. “Now we have an opportunity to give quality service to young people in the region. Salesian University of Argentina wants to reach ordinary people and offer education to respond to the problems facing young people.”

Salesians have a long history of working with poor youth and their families in Argentina, providing primary and secondary schools along with trade, agricultural and college programs.

Last year, the Salesian Pascual Gentilini Agricultural School in San Jose celebrated its 85th anniversary. Its curriculum includes lessons in community service, vegetable gardening, cooking, maintenance, music, cultivation of annual crops and tea, fruit farming, zootechnics, bee-keeping, cattle-raising, leadership training and social work.

“Salesian programs adapt to local needs,” says Father Mark Hyde, executive director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesian educational institutions teach, train and work with local youth living in poverty who want opportunities for a brighter future. The academic and technical programs offered show how education and training not only benefit the individual student, but also entire communities.”

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Sources

ANS – Argentina – A new Salesian University

World Bank – Poverty in Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: Argentine President Signs Decree for Creation of New Salesian University first appeared on MissionNewswire.

The Salesians have a long history of working with poor youth and their families in Argentina, offering access to education and training that provides a foundation for youth to gain employment and break the cycle of poverty.

This past July, the Salesians were featured in an edition of the Diario de Cuyo, a daily newspaper in the province of San Juan, acknowledging their work training many generations of young people in agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, viticulture and wine-making.

The article took note of the level of expertise demonstrated in the wine-making books created by Father Francisco Oreglia, a Salesian priest at the wine-making and horticultural program in Rodeo del Medio in the province of Mendoza. The article further noted that the teachings by the Salesians have benefited generations of wine producers in the southern hemisphere.

“The Salesians have been working in Argentina to provide educational opportunities to poor youth for many years,” says Father Mark Hyde, executive director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesian technical and agricultural programs and other services educate youth and help them learn skills to gain stable employment.”

The Salesian Pascual Gentilini Agricultural School in San Jose recently celebrated its 85th anniversary. Its curriculum includes lessons in community service, vegetable gardening, cooking, maintenance, music, annual crops, cultivation of tea, fruit farming, zootechnics, bee-keeping, cattle-raising, leadership training and social work. Agricultural technical training encompasses one to six years of study and teaches modern methods of farming together with business management.

“Investing in agriculture education in developing countries is vital to a community’s livelihood and essential not only to overcoming hunger and poverty, but also to ensuring overall economic growth for the surrounding villages and cities,” adds Fr. Hyde.

The Salesians operate more than 90 agricultural schools world-wide and 10 agricultural programs in Argentina alone. In addition to agricultural programs in the country, the Salesians run primary and secondary schools as well as technical and vocational programs.

“The Salesians are working hard to educate youth in Argentina and provide them a path out of poverty,” says Fr. Hyde. “The academic and technical programs offered show how education and training not only benefit the individual student, but also entire communities when students return home and share the skills they have acquired or start up local businesses.”

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ANS –  Argentina – “Salesians and Agriculture”. Recognition in Local Newspaper

World Bank – Poverty in Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: Salesian Agricultural Programs Receive Local Recognition for Training Expertise first appeared on MissionNewswire.

The Aug. 6 explosion—which destroyed apartment buildings filled with tenants—is being called the worst disaster in the history of the city, the third largest in the country.

“We did not suffer damage to our house, but the loud impact was heard that morning. Our school and other similar institutes in the area had to close for two days, at the request of the secretary for education in the province,” according to Father Ricardo Campoli, a Salesian priest in San José.

A fundraising campaign to solicit donations to assist the victims is being coordinated by Caritas Commission of the Salesian parish of Mary Help of Christians, together with neighboring parishes.

“The accident happened when a gas regulator was being replaced,” Fr. Campoli explained. “The worker in charge of this operation foresaw the explosion and ran out, shouting to everybody to get away from the complex, which consisted of three towers. Five minutes later the explosion occurred, and in a very short space of time, one of the nine-story towers collapsed. The surrounding towers also collapsed, and glass was flying in all directions. The tremor caused by the explosion was felt up to 40 blocks away.”

From the Salesian university chaplaincy and youth ministries to civil agencies, people rushed to help by providing food, blankets and comfort. Some even offered to take those left homeless into their own homes.

“The size of this event has left a trail of dead and wounded,” said Fr. Campoli. “So far, we have counted 12 dead, more than 60 injured, and 14 unaccounted for, among them children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. In the midst of so much suffering and loss, it is truly admirable to see the swift and effective support given by so many people.”

The Associated Press reported that dozens of people were trapped in the upper floors of the burning building. The building’s front and back facades were ripped open, exposing the shattered remains of apartments inside. Much of the downtown area has been evacuated as firefighters continue to search for victims in the rubble.

The Guardian newspaper is reporting that the explosion destroyed an entire apartment block.

PHOTO CAPTION:
Rescue workers stand among the rubble after an explosion caused by a gas leak tore through a 10-storey building in Rosario city, in the province of Santa Fe August 6, 2013. Twelve people have died, 60 injured and 15 remain missing as firefighters and rescue workers continue to search for people believed to be trapped in the area, according to local authorities. REUTERS/Marcelo Masuelli

The post ARGENTINA: Salesians Assist Victims of Massive Apartment Building Explosion first appeared on MissionNewswire.

The Salesians have been working in Argentina to provide educational opportunities to poor youth. Salesian technical and agricultural programs and other services educate youth and help them learn skills to gain stable employment. Most recently, the National Commission for University Approval and Accreditation granted approval to Salesian University in Bahía Blanca. This new University will offer quality education to young people who are looking to continue their studies and advance their academic standing.

“Salesian programs adapt to local needs,” says Father Mark Hyde, executive director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “The University will teach, train and work with local youth living in poverty who want opportunities for a brighter future.”

The University, set up as a nonprofit, has a mission that focuses on development and research, advancement in technology, formation of human resources and attention to innovative practices for the common good of the people and the progress of the nation. The first courses offered will be in education, communications, psychology and the study and theory of law.

Salesian staff members have worked for the last eight years planning and preparing for the University’s first academic year which is slated to commence in 2014. Staffing positions have already been decided for major academic programs. Marta Pini will act as rector of the University with César A. Lombardi and Silvia Mesenzani functioning as heads of the Law Department. Héctor Rausch will run the Social Sciences Department and Mónica Rosa Lauría will serve as head of the Psychology Department.

The Salesians have a long history of working with poor youth and their families in Argentina. With primary and secondary schools along with trade, agricultural and college programs being offered, youth have an opportunity to learn valuable skills to find employment. Most recently, Pascual Gentilini Agricultural School celebrated 85 years of teaching agricultural skills to poor youth in the region.

“The Salesians are working hard to educate youth in Argentina and provide them a path out of poverty,” says Fr. Hyde. “The academic and technical programs offered show how education and training not only benefit the individual student, but also entire communities when students return home and share the skills they have acquired or start up local businesses. In this way, students not only help themselves and their families, but also their local economies.”

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Sources

ANS – Argentina – Salesian University approved by CONEAU

World Bank – Poverty in Argentina

The post ARGENTINA: New Salesian University in Bahía Blanca Receives Accreditation first appeared on MissionNewswire.

New organization headquarters were opened recently and named Enrique Götz, in honor of a key figure in the early years of the foundation. The new building offers a wide living room, classrooms and spaces to accommodate various student groups and others.

Marcos Oliva Day, a former District Attorney and an avid kayaker, wished to teach youth to love, care and respect the place in which they live and to provide an opportunity for its exploration. The Knowing our House foundation protects the natural and cultural heritage of Puerto Deseado through this program, which is now recognized and emulated worldwide. To date, more than 12,000 youth have received training at the foundation and many have gone on to become instructors.

The foundation offers several courses in a variety of topics. “Training as monitors” is for teenage volunteers who study outside school hours with the support of the teachers of the Universidad Nacional de la Patagonia Austral and Universidad de La Plata. “Canoe in the family” takes place on the weekends with the support of the Club Náutico Capitán Oneto and other local municipalities and offers free lessons in sailing and canoeing while involving family members of all ages. “Organic gardening” teaches young people to plant and harvest crops and “Work experience for foreign volunteers” trains youth from Japan, France, England and Switzerland.

The youth who take part in these courses can communicate with sailors, writers, biologists, conservationists, artists and travelers arriving in Puerto Deseado while cultivating their imaginations and learning to appreciate different cultures in a respectful way.

This program has been so successful it has been replicated in other parts of the world. Robin Ruddock, history and biology professor at Stranmillis University College, Queen’s University, Belfast, began a similar program in Ireland as has kayaker, José Jaramillo, project developer at Río Gallegos, Chile and Marcos’ sister, Emma Olive Day, who has brought the program to 26 Schools in San Isidoro.

During the inauguration ceremony of the new building, Mayor Luis Ampuero recognized the foundation’s work and its contribution to the community throughout many years.

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ANS – Argentina – A house to learn about Patagonia

The post ARGENTINA: More than 12,000 Youth Have Received Training Since 1983, Thanks to Salesian Graduate first appeared on MissionNewswire.

Construction of the school began in 1927 through a bequest by the school’s namesake, Pascual Gentilini, who donated the land for the new school. The school acquired its first students in 1931 and has evolved over the years from providing a basic “Farm Manager” course to a more substantial course, “General Agronomist”, to the far more substantial variety of courses offered to its students today.

“Salesian Missions not only provides educational opportunities in more than 130 countries around the globe, it also address core needs,” says Fr. Mark Hyde, executive director of Salesian Missions – the U.S. arm of Don Bosco. “The Salesian-run agricultural schools offer more than just agricultural training – they are often part of a larger program that also offers literacy education and other vocational training, in addition to feeding programs for hungry children.”

Today, the Agricultural School’s curriculum includes lessons in community service, vegetable gardening, cooking, maintenance, music, annual crops, cultivation of tea, fruit farming, zootechnics, bee-keeping, cattle-raising, leadership training and social work. Agricultural technical training encompasses one to six years of study and the youth at the school are enthusiastic students, eager to learn modern methods of farming together with business management.

The school, which started with only a handful of students, offered a safe home, an education in farming methods and most importantly, hope for the future. Since its inception, the school has seen much growth and today supports 209 boarding students, 40 teachers and 32 staff members including a lay Principal.

The primary mission of the school is to provide educational opportunities for the poorest of the poor. After youth have completed their studies, they are able to give back and contribute to their local economy. The benefit of training even one student has a positive ripple effect on the community. Graduates leave with knowledge and training to improve the lives of not only themselves, but their families and villages as well.

“Investing in agriculture education in developing countries is vital to a community’s livelihood and essential not only to overcome hunger and poverty, but also to ensure overall economic growth for the surrounding villages and cities,” adds Fr. Hyde.

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Sources

ANS – The Salesian “Pascual Gentilini” school completes 85 years

The post ARGENTINA: 85-Year-Old Agricultural School Teaches Hundreds Necessary Farming Techniques first appeared on MissionNewswire.