PAPUA NEW GUINEA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in Sabama, Papua New Guinea, brought together 50 participants for a session on gender-based violence held on March 8 at the Mary Help of Christians Parish. The session, led by Lucy Lavu, family life coordinator at the Archdiocese of Port Moresby, celebrated International Women’s Day.

The session aimed to educate youth on gender rights and equality. Lavu said, “It is important to understand ourselves to build better relationships.” She, along with her husband John, explained the differences between gender-based violence and domestic violence, as well as concepts of equality and equity. They also discussed the legal consequences of offenses.

Father Ambrose Pereira, parish priest, noted, “Our young people must be informed about the importance of respecting and positively engaging with all individuals, especially women and girls.” Another similar session is planned, along with additional youth empowerment workshops.

Salesian missionaries in the country provide primary and secondary education, as well as technical skills training to prepare youth for the workforce. Missionaries also help to ensure that basic needs like shelter, food and water are met so students are able to focus on their studies.

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

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

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries with the Don Bosco Araimiri community in Kerema, Papua New Guinea, provided nutritious meals to students thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The meals were distributed to various groups in the Salesian community.

The majority of the meals were shared with boarding students at Don Bosco Araimiri Secondary School. The 300 students who attend the school are from various villages and range in age from 19 to 25.

The meals were also shared with students in three learning centers operated by the Mary Help of Christians Parish which is run by Don Bosco Araimiri. Nearly 350 students, ages 5 to 9, use these learning centers. Many of the children are from families who are disadvantaged.

One of the beneficiaries of the donation is Michelene, age 7, who is from the village of Akapiru and part of the Mary Help of Christians Parish. She is in level two at the St. Michael Learning Center and had been lacking proper nutrition.

A Salesian explained, “Michelene was so happy and fully enjoyed the meal provided through this project. She expressed she is so grateful to the benefactors who make this feeding program possible. She hopes the project is able to continue.”

Salesian missionaries in the country provide primary and secondary education, as well as technical skills training to prepare youth for the workforce. Missionaries also help to ensure that basic needs like shelter, food and water are met so students are able to focus on their studies.

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

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

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NEW GUINEA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Technical School, located in Gabutu, Papua New Guinea, began the Servanthood and Leadership Training (S.A.L.T.), which is an annual program designed to get students active in the community. The goal is for students to graduate and serve the community as responsible citizens.

The program lasts three consecutive Saturdays with the students serving in the Bosco Mountain School, St. Therese Primary and Sevese Morea Primary School, St. Therese Clinic-Hohola, Cheshire Homes Center, and Mary Help of Christians Parish in Sabama.

Father Ambrose Pereira, parish priest of Mary Help of Christians Parish, said, “The parishioners were pleased to receive the 43 young students and their companions, who carried out their service in different places within the parish. They cleaned both inside and out, cut grass, and dealt with the excavation of a disposal and road adjustment pit. Youth also motivated the youngsters in the community to do other drainage work for the benefit of the community.”

After several hours of work, Fr. Pereira met with the youth in a moment of prayer. The youth shared their experiences and had lunch together after the work was done.

Salesian missionaries in the country provide primary and secondary education as well as technical skills training to prepare youth for the workforce. Missionaries also help to ensure that basic needs like shelter, food and water are met so students are able to focus on their studies.

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

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

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ANS – Papua New Guinea – Students graduate from the Don Bosco Technical School in the service of the community

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NEW GUINEA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian sisters, staff and student leaders from Mary Help of Christians Vocational Education Training Center, located in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, held the Laudato Si’ Camp 2024 in April. The two-day camp had the theme, “Laudato Si’ dreamers for a better world.” It taught environmental awareness, fostering a sense of responsibility and empowering participants to become agents of positive change in their communities.

The camp’s focus came from Pope Francis’ 2020 Laudato Si’, which had as its theme “Good Christians and Upright Citizens.” Pope Francis underlined the importance of education and training to help youth foster environmental responsibility.

More than 200 participants from schools and Catholic parishes came together for the camp. There were presentations by student leaders on the principles of the 5S (sort, set in order, shine, standardize, sustain) and green skills. These presentations equipped the campers with knowledge and strategies to promote cleanliness and environmental sustainability.

A Salesian sister explained, “After the presentation, this was then put into practice in cleaning, organizing, and caring for the environment in different schools. The participants demonstrated exceptional teamwork and dedication, effectively sorting out trash for recycling and leaving a positive impact on the school environments they visited.”

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

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

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Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Green Alliance

Don Bosco Green Alliance – Laudato Si’ dreamers for a better world

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian cooperators in Kokopo, Papua New Guinea, conducted a series of awareness programs in the villages belonging to the Mary Help of Christians parish, including Tobera, Malex and Ramale. The events started at the beginning of Advent and culminated on St. Stephen’s Day on Dec. 26. On Christmas day, gifts were given to 180 families. Salesians also extended these activities to the Rakunai parish on Christmas.

Salesians held a Christmas Mass as well as a celebration with songs and dances. This annual event is the result of collaboration between all members of the Salesian family and the friends of Don Bosco.

A Salesian noted, “This event brings much joy to the children and families we serve. It’s a time for the community to come together to celebrate the holidays and connect with one another. It’s also the time for Salesians and school staff at Don Bosco Technical School to celebrate the accomplishments of youth this past school term.”

Salesian missionaries in the country provide primary and secondary education as well as technical skills training to prepare youth for the workforce. Missionaries also help to ensure that basic needs like shelter, food and water are met so students are able to focus on their studies.

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

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

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ANS – Papua New Guinea – The Salesian Cooperators in Kokopo close a month filled with activities and charitable initiatives

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Technical Institute, located in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, is working to build partnerships with industries to ensure that graduating youth have a smooth transition into employment. In June, the institute signed a collaborative agreement with Total Energy for scholarship funding.

The program recently held an event to award 90 students studying technical trades at the institute with scholarships for their continued education. It was also a time for Total Energy staff to meet the recipients of these scholarships.

In addition to students this year, the program is set to offer spots to a second cohort of 90 students next year. The scholarship spots will be given to students from the Gulf province and then extended to other provinces, working toward optimizing opportunities for young Papua New Guineans.

At the agreement signing with Don Bosco Technical Institute, Jean-Marc Noiray, managing director for Total Energy, said that priority is given to students from the Gulf because many often miss out on opportunities to advance their education. He said, “I do believe that every human being is born with the same amount of potential and some are lucky enough to develop it whilst others are not.”

Noiray reminded the students at the scholarship event to use their educational opportunities to be exemplary community members. He further encouraged them to register with the job portal once they have graduated from their courses to ensure that their skills are utilized. Total Energy also donated information technology equipment to the institute to be used by the students in workshops.

“Salesian missionaries provide primary and secondary education as well as technical skills training to prepare youth for the workforce,” said Father Timothy Ploch, interim director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Collaborations like this help to ensure that youth are gainfully employed after they graduate. This enables them to be self-sufficient and give back to their families and communities.”

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

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

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

ANS – Papua New Guinea – Linking up with Industry

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Technical Institute’s mission group in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, provides opportunities for students to serve together using their talents and sometimes meager resources to help others in need. They are agents of change for their peers, families and communities.

The mission group was started in 2018 by Rica Lavilla, who first came to Papua New Guinea as a volunteer under the Salesian Lay Volunteer Program. Today, she is a full-time educator at the Don Bosco Technical Institute in her eighth year of teaching.

Regarding the start of the mission group, Lavilla said, “Being young is not that easy, especially in today’s world. Young people are faced with a myriad of challenges. They are confronted with so many questions which can make life baffling and not that easy to handle. On the other hand, the youth are the future of our families, communities, the country and the world. Hence, we need to empower them to be agents of transformation not only for tomorrow but more importantly, today.”

One project of the group is the “Walking Kettle Project” which brings together mission group members at 7 a.m. once or twice a week to prepare hot tea and scones for others. Walking around the Parents, Citizens, and Teachers Association park, they pour tea and provide scones for those students who have arrived early to school. They also offer love and kindness.

“Hot tea and scones are being offered for free to students who come very early to school,” explained Lavilla. “Most of these students are the ones living far and have to walk for long distances in order to catch the bus and beat the traffic jam which is why they would leave their places as early as 5 a.m. without having breakfast.”

The mission group has also provided prison outreach, which took place in June 2022 at Bomana Prison. The group engaged the whole school community by asking for donations of bath soaps, laundry soaps, toilet paper, toothbrushes and toothpaste. The school responded positively and several cartons of these goods were brought to the inmates.

One of the youth who participated explained their experience. “Before entering the gate, we were asked by the warden to stand in line and to count aloud from the first person to the last. As we entered the gate, it felt dreadful for me because people were staring at us. While seated, one of the inmates called us to go and shake hands with them. I felt happy and believe that they felt the love and hope we brought with our visit. This is one experience that will go deep down in my heart. I was crying not because of sadness but because of joy, knowing that we brought hope in their life.”

Lavilla added, “When young people are given opportunities to serve, to have meaningful experiences, and to grow in their relationships with God, others, and themselves, they can be empowered agents of transformation in today’s human family.”

Salesian missionaries in the country provide primary and secondary education as well as technical skills training to prepare youth for the workforce. Missionaries also help to ensure that basic needs like shelter, food and water are met so students are able to focus on their studies.

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

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

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

ANS – Papua New Guinea – Mission Possible: being agents of change

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA

(MissionNewswire) Students gathered at Don Bosco Secondary Technical School in Kokopo, Papua New Guinea, at the end of December for the closing of their annual programs. Salesians and benefactors joined the youth for an exchange of Christmas gifts. The day began with Catholic Mass presided over by Father Moise Paluku, parish priest, who urged youth to participate in parish activities planned for the coming year. He also encouraged them to be more active with their leadership skills in their respective communities.

During the second part of the day, students engaged in a singing competition with Salesian staff taking part as judges. The program ended with a gift offered by the Salesians and benefactors to all youth who participated in the program.

A Salesian missionary said, “This was a chance for Salesians and school staff to celebrate the accomplishments of youth this past school term. It was a time to enjoy the holidays and ensure that youth receive gifts and praise for their hard work.”

Salesian missionaries in the country provide primary and secondary education as well as technical skills training to prepare youth for the workforce. Missionaries also help to ensure that basic needs like shelter, food and water are met so students are able to focus on their studies.

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

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

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

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Technical School, located in Gabutu, an area within the city of Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea, has launched the “Scraper Project,” which is a fundraising initiative to raise money for the Don Bosco Center run by the Sisters of Charity in South Sudan.

The scraper is an essential kitchen tool in every household in Papua New Guinea, and under the guidance of instructors, students have learned to create them. Through the sale of scrapers, students will support the construction of a new building and the purchase of machinery and equipment for the Don Bosco Center.

Salesian Father Pedro Sachitula stated that the whole educational-pastoral community, including the Association of Salesian Cooperators, is involved in the project, and stressed that the initiative is a concrete response of the school to the Salesian Mission Day 2021 theme of “One Father, One Family – Missionary Solidarity as Initial Proclamation.” Other fundraising activities will take place from June to October 2021.

“This initiative is an opportunity for Salesian students to showcase their skills while directly helping another Salesian center,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesian students learn much more during their education than the skills to find employment. They also learn the importance of helping one another and giving back to their community and others in need. This is a win-win for students in both Papua New Guinea and South Sudan.”

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

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

Salesian missionaries in the country provide primary and secondary education as well as technical skills training to prepare youth for the workforce. Missionaries also help to ensure that basic needs like shelter, food and water are met so students are able to focus on their studies.

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

ANS – Papua New Guinea – Solidarity missionary project of DBTS of Gabutu

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Technical Institute, located in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, launched an integrated waste management plan to focus more on the environment. It is in response to the call from Pope Francis in his 2020 Laudato sì, which has as its theme “Good Christians and Upright Citizens.” Further, Rector Major Father Ángel Fernández Artime underlined the importance of concrete initiatives in the care of the environment.

The integrated waste management plan has started with several activities. Trash cans were purchased so Don Bosco Technical Institute can begin separating trash collection to focus on recycling. Each week, staff members and some community residents sort the waste into the appropriate bins. The institute is also focused on how to dispose of the waste, since typically cardboard and plastic materials are thrown in the incinerator. The smoke generated can disturb the community and have a costly environmental impact.

In addition, three large compost pits were built at the back of the school, two in the Salesian residence and two more in the staff houses. The goal is to be “zero waste” to conserve resources, engage in responsible production and reuse waste materials, thereby avoiding incinerating waste or dumping it on land or in the water.

To ensure proper waste management, Don Bosco Technical Institute has organized a team made up of volunteers including eight staff members and six students. Each of them studies and works in different areas of expertise, ranging from school cleaning to collecting plastic, paper and glass. Meanwhile, efforts to recycle different types of waste are ongoing. A recycling shed has also been set up near the three compost pits. At the moment, much of the effort in waste management is conducted by students and staff, but the hope is to involve more people in the community as the initiative evolves.

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

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

Salesian missionaries in the country provide primary and secondary education as well as technical skills training to prepare youth for the workforce. Missionaries also help to ensure that basic needs like shelter, food and water are met so students can focus on their studies.

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

ANS – Papua New Guinea – Waste management project led by Don Bosco Technical Institute

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Technological Institute, located in Boroko, Papua New Guinea, has reopened its doors after the COVID-19 isolation. Students and teachers can resume classes with new added safety measures in place. These measures, provided by the Ministry of Education, include rigorous checks at the entrance, a change in lesson times, temperature measurement and frequent handwashing.

Students who have returned to class are determined to make the most of the year ahead and to complete all unfinished work in order to obtain their diploma at the end of the year. For many students, being out of school wasn’t just about missed lessons. Students in Salesian schools sometimes eat their only meal a day at school.

During the quarantine, Salesian students made the best of their time. Students from the Don Bosco Technological Institute, Savio Haus and Mary Our Help made short songs on the topics “Stay at home” and “Social distances”. Other young people shared their thoughts on the risks of coronavirus and on the need to take care of the planet and keep the environment in which we live clean.

“We are encouraged that Salesian students in Papua New Guinea are able to return to school after their quarantine,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “The safety of our students is important so the rigid safety measures put in place will be followed by staff, teachers and students. The goal is to be able to get students back in the classroom learning and preparing for the future while keeping their health and safety a priority.”

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

Salesian missionaries in the country provide primary and secondary education as well as technical skills training to prepare youth for the workforce. Missionaries also help to ensure that basic needs like shelter, food and water are met so students are able to focus on their studies.

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

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA

(MissionNewswire) Xavier Loipio, 33 years old, credits the success in his life to the time he spent at Don Bosco Technical School in Gabutu, an area within the city of Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea. He graduated from the school in 2009 with a degree in maintenance fitting and machining. Loipio started his career as a marine fitter at PNG Dockyard Ltd and has worked in the industry successfully for 10 years.

Life wasn’t always that easy for him. Loipio explained, “I dropped out of high school, lived the life of a drug addict for three years and had an attitude problem. Then to make ends meet, I resorted to selling betel nut. As the days rolled on, I often wondered, ‘What will I do with my life?’ One day I was encouraged by Father Jess Escala, the former principal at Don Bosco Technical School, to enroll in the school, so I did. At Don Bosco, I received what I needed to succeed including punctuality, counseling and time management. Don Bosco was the light at the end of my tunnel to become an outstanding citizen, a successful and professional skills person and a role model in my community.”

With the skills he acquired at Don Bosco Technical School, Loipio went on to obtain his tradesman certificate at Port Moresby Technical College, certificate III in machine fitting in mechanical trade at the Australian Pacific Technical Coalition, and an advanced diploma–I.V.Q Level 3 in oil and gas maintenance at Kumul Petroleum Academy, South Pacific Employment Institution.

“One of my greatest accomplishments has been as president of the Australia Pacific Technical Coalition Alumni PNG from 2017-18. During my time there, I met educated professionals in the technical and vocational training and educator sector,” said Liopio. “These are the people who have inspired me to become someone in life. I am grateful to all of them. I am also one of the pioneers of Kumul Petroleum Academy/South Pacific Employment Institution as well as part of the fourth graduating class from the ExxonMobil training program. With my leadership qualities, I am presently working as a mechanical technician team leader with Comlek Electrical Engineering Ltd, an Australian-based company.”

Loipio added, “Without Don Bosco, I would not have been able to accomplish these things. I am eternally grateful to Don Bosco for believing in me when I didn’t believe in myself.”

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

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

Salesian missionaries in the country provide primary and secondary education as well as technical skills training to prepare youth for the workforce. Missionaries also help to ensure that basic needs like shelter, food and water are met so students are able to focus on their studies.

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

ANS – Papua New Guinea – Don Bosco still changes lives of youngsters

Salesian Missions – Papua New Guinea

World Bank – Papua New Guinea Poverty

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in Papua New Guinea provide primary and secondary education as well as technical skills training to prepare youth for the workforce. Missionaries also help to ensure that basic needs like shelter, food and water are met so students are able to focus on their studies.

At Don Bosco Technical Secondary School in Rapolo, a populated area in East New Britain, Salesian missionaries are grateful for the efforts and commitment of lay people who serve poor youth and their families. Every weekend, lay volunteers lead Catechism classes for the young children attending the newly established parish.

Every Sunday, lay volunteers also visit different communities and offer basic checkups on blood pressure and sugar levels for the people of the villages. This helps people to focus on their health so that they may live long and healthy lives.

Other lay volunteers dedicate themselves to working directly with youth in classrooms and courtyards. They offer children assistance and provide them supportive adults to listen, interact with them and be good role models.

This year, Stephen Stafstrom, who is 21 years old and from Florida, and Matthew Nguyen, also 21 years old and from Texas, are part of the Salesian Missions Lay Missioner program working in Papua New Guinea’s capital city of Port Moresby.

Salesian Lay Missioners make a one- to three-year commitment and are assigned to a Salesian mission, typically a school, youth center or parish, in one of the 132 countries where Salesian missionaries are active around the globe. Missioners spend time teaching, guiding and counseling children and their families, as well as learning about different cultures and communities. They become part of a close-knit team of Salesian missionaries, volunteers and lay staff working together to bring hope to poor youth and their families.

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

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

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ANS – Papua New Guinea – The universal call to the Mission

Salesian Missions – Papua New Guinea

World Bank – Papua New Guinea Poverty

The post PAPUA NEW GUINEA: Salesian lay missionaries volunteer in Rapolo community providing education and support to local youth first appeared on MissionNewswire.

The West Papuan community has more than 2,000 people who are living in five camps across Port Moresby. They had been promised resettlement to allocated state land by the previous government, but have yet to be resettled. With this uncertainty, leaders from the camps approached the Catholic Bishops Conference for help in reducing some of the ongoing challenges at the camps such as food security, clean water, education, land and housing.

Caritas launched its support by providing educational scholarships to 20 West Papuan youth so that they can attend courses at the Don Bosco Technical School, Gabutu. The short four-month courses give disadvantaged young men and women an opportunity to attain basic certificates in computing, administration, electrical and motor mechanics.

Thomas Wangai, one of the scholarship recipients, will soon to be studying metal fabrication and welding. He spoke of the hardships he faced and said the scholarship was a turning point in his life. He noted, “I am honored to receive this scholarship. I faced many negative situations, but I never lost faith. I am grateful to God that He has heard my prayer.”

Hans Wonsiwor, representative of the Nine-Mile West Papua community, also expressed how much the scholarships meant. “I’m proud of the partnership between Caritas and the Don Bosco Technical School. I thank them both in providing this wonderful scholarship program to assist the West Papuan Community.”

Salesian missionaries in Papua New Guinea provide primary and secondary education as well as technical skills training to prepare youth for the workforce. Missionaries also help to ensure that basic needs like shelter, food and water are met so students are able to focus on their studies.

“’They welcomed angels’ is our Mission theme for 2019. In keeping with the theme, we are happy to welcome the West Papuan refugees and offer them education at Don Bosco Technical School in Gabutu. The program will develop their skills, and most importantly, help them find a decent job,” says Kenneth Gonzales, deputy principal for technical affairs at the Don Bosco Technical School.

Caritas Australia’s Program Quality and Support Coordinator in Papua New Guinea, Marie Mondu, emphasized the need for empowerment and a sense of purpose to be imparted to the refugees. She says, “Refugees in Papua New Guinea today need our help, particularly our brothers and sisters from West Papua. This program provides them with the tools necessary and the opportunity to rebuild their lives.”

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

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

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

ANS – Papua New Guinea – Second Chance Scholarship for West Papuan Refugees

World Bank – Papua New Guinea Poverty

Salesian Missions – Papua New Guinea

The post PAPUA NEW GUINEA: Caritas and Don Bosco Technical School partner to provide scholarships to refugees from West Papua first appeared on MissionNewswire.

Youth shared their views on climate change, stressing the importance of raising awareness of the issue among their peers and highlighting what can be done to reduce their environmental impact. The event, which was broadcasted by the local NBC TV station, was organized in collaboration with the Social Communication Office of the Episcopal Conference of Papua New Guinea-Solomon Islands, led by Salesian Father Ambrose Pereira.

“In Salesian programs around the globe, youth are focused on environmental causes, helping to make their communities and the world around them a better place to live,” says Father Mark Hyde, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesian programs focus on providing youth an education and meeting their basic needs, but also go far beyond that, helping youth develop leadership skills and giving them a platform to discuss the issues they care about most.”

In addition to the work in Papua New Guinea, Salesian missionaries facilitate the Don Bosco Green Alliance which is an international collective of youth from Salesian institutions and organizations that contribute to global environmental action, thought and policy. The alliance focuses on creating an environment that is safe and caring for all life on the planet while raising up a new generation of environmentally committed citizens and leaders.

Salesian missionaries in Papua New Guinea provide primary and secondary education as well as technical skills training to prepare youth for the workforce. Missionaries also help to ensure that basic needs like shelter, food and water are met so students are able to focus on their studies.

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

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

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

ANS – Papua New Guinea – Salesian students talk about climate change on the radio

World Bank – Papua New Guinea Poverty

The post PAPUA NEW GUINEA: Salesian students from Don Bosco Technical School participate in interactive broadcast program talking about climate change first appeared on MissionNewswire.

Salesian Lay Missioners make a one to three-year commitment and are assigned to a Salesian mission, typically a school, youth center or parish, in one of the 132 countries where Salesian missionaries are active around the globe. Missioners spend time teaching, guiding and counseling children and their families as well as learning about different cultures and communities. They become part of a close-knit team of Salesian missionaries, volunteers and lay staff working together to bring hope to poor youth and their families.

This year, Stephen Stafstrom who is 21 years old and from Florida, and Matthew Nguyen, also 21 years old and from Texas, are part of the Salesian Lay Missioner program working in Papua New Guinea’s capital city of Port Moresby. Both are committed to carrying out God’s message through volunteerism and answering the call to give to youth in need.

Stafstrom says, “I graduated last May 2018 from the University of Central Florida. All my life I have been surrounded with witnesses of ‘yes’ to God’s call in their lives. From my mother’s example as a youth minister at my parish to the name of my parish itself “Annunciation,” the theme of choosing God’s will for your life has always been apparent; I have tried to live my life accordingly.”

Nguyen who graduated from St. Matthews University in 2017 notes, “My parents immigrated to America during the Vietnam War when they were very young, and consequently, I was raised in America, learning English and assimilating into the culture. I speak no Vietnamese and many times would have to learn a little Vietnamese here and there to communicate with some of my peers. This taught me what it means to be unable to communicate efficiently with others, yet I have also learned the joy of being able to communicate at all.”

Salesian missionaries in Papua New Guinea provide primary and secondary education as well as technical skills training to prepare youth for the workforce. Missionaries also help to ensure that basic needs like shelter, food and water are met so students are able to focus on their studies.

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

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

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

ANS – Papua New Guinea – Salesian Lay Missioners: A Renewed Adventure with the PGS Vice Province

Salesian Lay Missioners

World Bank – Papua New Guinea Poverty

The post PAPUA NEW GUINEA: Salesian Missions Lay Missioners begin their work in Salesian programs in Port Moresby first appeared on MissionNewswire.

In April 2016, the Supreme Court of Papua New Guinea declared that a detention center for asylum seekers on the island of Manus, established by the Australian government through an agreement with the government of Papua New Guinea, was illegal and unconstitutional.

Today, some 400 refugees are still waiting to be resettled, subjecting them to a series of human rights violations and social jeopardy. In an attempt to find a solution to the current situation, Salesian Father Ambrose Pereira, secretary of the Communication and Youth Commission of the Episcopal Conference of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, launched the roundtable discussion.

“On December 15, 2017, I met the first two refugees who had been taken away from the Isle of Manus and sent to the Bomana penitentiary,” explained Fr. Pereira. “Last year was characterized by constant interaction with refugees from Sri Lanka, Iran, Iraq, Syria and many other countries. Fortunately, some have been resettled, but most of them are still in Papua New Guinea.”

The roundtable, entitled “Manus Refuges,” brought together the government, the Church, students, refugees and Papuan citizens for an open discussion. Monsignor Bernard Unaballi, bishop of Bougainville, strongly committed himself to finding a definitive solution and suggested the Christmas period for a deadline. Despite this, no agreement was reached and the refugees spent their sixth Christmas in terrible conditions.

“I have waited with hope, but the promised meetings with the Prime Minister and the Australian High Commissioner never materialized,” explained Fr. Pereira. “The offices are now closed and everyone has returned home for the holidays while beyond 400 refugees struggle to gain access to essential health and services.”

Salesian missionaries in Papua New Guinea provide primary and secondary education as well as technical skills training to prepare youth for the workforce. Missionaries also help to ensure that basic needs like shelter, food and water are met so students are able to focus on their studies. The Don Bosco Technical School in Gabutu, an area within the city of Port Moresby, is providing close to 1,000 students a chance to gain the skills needed for employment. Some students have already graduated and are now employed at the school. Martin Dai, the current principal, was one of the first 120 students who graduated from the Don Bosco Technical School in 1988.

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

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

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

ANS – Papua New Guinea – Christmas with Manus refugees: “The People who walk in darkness shall see a great Light”

World Bank – Papua New Guinea Poverty

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Recently, Martin shared the story of one of his former students. He says, “My wife Rebecca was on her way back from work when she saw a 19-year-old young man waiting at the bus stop. Everyone who knew him told her that he was looking to steal and take people’s bags away. But Rebecca decided to approach him, and it all started with a simple greeting. The young man opened up to her, offering to accompany her from the bus stop to home. Sometimes he offered to help her by carrying her bags. Rebecca took a risk. She trusted him because the boy had a good heart.”

Rebecca introduced him to Martin and explained that she believed him to be honest, trustworthy and protective of women. She asked if her husband could help him and suggested that if he wanted to, he could enroll in the training course for the development of job-oriented skills at the school.

Martin met the young man, who asked to be called Usky, to learn more about him. Usky did not know his mother and father and mainly lived at the bus stop. He accepted Martin’s offer to gain an education at the Don Bosco Technical School. He started as a welder. Teachers found him to be an honest and responsible young man and a hard worker. The school became a home for him and after he graduated, he found work as a clerk. Today, Usky is a full-time employee at the Don Bosco Technical School in Gabutu. He, like Martin, is able to give back to the school that gave him so much.

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

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

Salesian missionaries in the country provide primary and secondary education as well as technical skills training to prepare youth for the workforce. Missionaries also help to ensure that basic needs like shelter, food and water are met so students are able to focus on their studies.

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

ANS – Papua New Guinea – Usky’s touching story

World Bank – Papua New Guinea Poverty

The post PAPUA NEW GUINEA: Don Bosco Technical School provides young students in poverty an opportunity for education and long-term employment first appeared on MissionNewswire.

The Salesian mission of Araimiri was launched in 1980 by Father Valeriano Barbero, Father Rolando Fernandez and Salesian coadjutor Joseph Kramar. Currently, the school educates 250 students. Secondary education provides youth the foundation for later vocational and technical education youth need to find and retain stable employment. Education helps youth break the cycle of poverty and become contributing members of their communities.

UN-Water estimates that worldwide there are more than 663 million people living without a safe water supply close to their home and must spend countless hours queuing or trekking to distant sources to look for water and cope with the health impacts of using contaminated water. For those who have no access to clean water, water-related disease is common with more than 840,000 people dying each year from water-related diseases.

Women and children often bear the primary responsibility for water collection in the majority of households globally and spend 140 million hours a day collecting water. Children in these communities are forced to walk for hours to collect drinking water—water that often proves contaminated and seriously sickens those who consume it. Many others are unable to attend school regularly because they must spend time searching for distant wells.

In response to this crisis, Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, has made building wells and supplying fresh, clean water a top priority for every community in every country in which Salesian missionaries work.

“Having access to clean water and proper sanitation brings a sense of dignity to the children and families we serve in our programs,” says Father Mark Hyde, executive director of Salesian Missions. “Improving water and sanitation facilities also ensures that teachers and students are working and learning in an environment that promotes proper hygiene and has safe drinking water, reducing the number of waterborne illnesses that can affect those in our schools and keeping them away from important study time.”

Having access to basic needs like water and sanitation in schools and within local communities is important in a country where 28 percent of the population lives below the poverty line. Close to 50 percent of adults are illiterate and 25 percent of children are unable to attend school. Part of the problem with getting to school, work and hospitals has to do with Papua New Guinea’s infrastructure. In rural areas, where nearly 88 percent of the population resides, there are few roads or means of transportation to get to schools or places of employment.

Salesian missionaries in the country provide primary and secondary education as well as technical skills training to prepare youth for the workforce. Missionaries also help to ensure that basic needs like shelter, food and water are met so students are able to focus on their studies.

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Salesian Missions

World Bank – Papua New Guinea Poverty

The post PAPUA NEW GUINEA: Salesian Missions provides eight new water tanks giving students access to clean water first appeared on MissionNewswire.

Sr. Trinh also communicates with their families back home and arranges for payment of penalties. In addition, she gathers all the necessary documents and tickets for them to fly back home to Vietnam. Sr. Trinh is a Vietnamese Salesian Sister working in a girls’ skills training institute in Sideia Island, diocese of Alotau.

“It is very disturbing that these young Vietnamese fishermen might be victims of human trafficking,” says Bishop Rolando Santos of Diocese of Alotau-Sideia. “It is a serious abuse on the rights and dignity of these young men to be sent out by their recruiters to fish in illegal waters without a proper license and without any guarantee of protection or security. Once caught, they are almost totally forgotten and abandoned. The rights of these young men need to be respected and a better employment worthy of their dignity be afforded to them. There is an urgent humanitarian need to put a stop to this.”

Sr. Trinh was already able to successfully process the repatriation of 87 Vietnamese fishermen. About 18 more will soon follow and be able to rejoin their families back home, thanks to the courage of Sr. Trinh and the support given by her Salesian community.

“The governor of Milne Bay Province has expressed his deep gratitude to Sr. Trinh for the help she has given in facilitating the case of the Vietnamese detainees. The diocese is proud of her and her charity is truly heroic,” adds Bishop Santos.

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

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ANS – Papua New Guinea – A heroic sister helps her fellow countrymen: a Vietnamese FMA in Sideia Island

World Bank – Papua New Guinea Poverty

The post PAPUA NEW GUINEA: Salesian Sister Helps Incarcerated Vietnamese Fishermen to be Freed and Repatriated to their Home Country first appeared on MissionNewswire.

The school’s two founders, Sr. Sara Park and Sr. Florentina Cho, settled in Kimbe in early Dec. 2016. They rented a hall from a local Catholic parish and started their humble new school with two make-up classrooms. The official start was on Feb. 6, 2017, when the Salesian sisters finalized the registration of the first students, graduates of the eighth grade, and held the first school year opening ceremony.

Another group girls, graduates of grade 10, requested that they be able to continue their education as well and join the school. The Caritas Sisters accepted them, and they started Grade 11 with more than 100 new students. Right now, 115 girls are studying at the secondary technical school. The students are learning the technical skills needed to either advance into higher learning or gain employment.

“Salesian programs are so successful in part because they remain flexible and diversified to meet the needs of their students,” says Father Mark Hyde, executive director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Being an integral part of the communities in which they work, Salesian sisters are aware of how important providing access to education is for girl and have created programs to directly address those needs.”

Providing education for girls and young women is particularly important in Papua New Guinea, where girls also have substantially less access to basic education and healthcare than their male counterparts. Violations of women’s rights are also nearly systemic throughout the country, with nearly two-thirds of women having experienced violence.

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

Sourcs

ANS – Papua New Guinea – Caritas Sisters open a new Secondary Technical School

World Bank – Papua New Guinea Poverty

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As Larcom studied youth at the Salesian-run school, he found that access to education played a much greater role in reducing the propensity for payback killings than harsh criminal penalties. He also noted the positive impact the Salesians had on education and on their local community.

Larcom says of his host Fr. John Cabrido, a missionary at Vunabosco, “Not only did Fr. John Cabrido give me a warm invitation to visit, within a couple of weeks he had organized a two month itinerary for my fieldwork, including hosts, guides, translators and transport.” Larcom’s research is timely as youth crime is something the country continues to address.

Criminal behavior among youth in Papua New Guinea and across the South Pacific has been on the rise. In March 2009, the Government of Papua New Guinea, in partnership with UNICEF, hosted a sub-regional meeting focused on juvenile justice issues, including finding ways to strengthen the links between the justice and child welfare systems.

Delegates at the meeting noted that many youth were detained for petty crimes with incarceration serving both as a punishment and as a rehabilitation tool. A UN Secretary-General’s Global Study on Violence Against Children in 2005, revealed that incarceration resulted in youth being vulnerable to further violence, abuse and other legal rights violations.

Larcom’s research results show that education rather than traditional detention plays a greater role in reducing crime and recidivism in youth offenders. At Salesian schools and technical institutes in Papua New Guinea youth have access to education where otherwise they may not. Secondary and technical education in the country is reserved for very few but at the Vunabosco Agro-Technical Secondary School as many youth as possible are admitted, regardless of academic ability.

Education provides the means for youth to better their lives and their circumstances. Students at the Vunabosco Agro-Technical Secondary School gain skills they will have for a lifetime and are better prepared to serve their communities when they go home – passing their education forward.

Larcom noted, “One of the former students of Bougainville, who I met, returned to his village and built a hydroelectric generator out of scrap, which provides regular electricity to the whole village.”

It is this type of education, Larcom found, that deters criminal behavior while preparing youth for a productive future, creating opportunities where otherwise there would be none.

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ANS:  Papua New Guinea – Discovering the Salesian Missions

UNICEF: Pacific region turning spotlight on achieving justice for children

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