The project in Linares promotes the use of renewable technologies

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Agricultural School in Linares, Chile, recently launched an environmental project to equip the school with photovoltaic solar panels in order to promote the use of renewable technologies. The project was made possible with the support of the national company Oenergy Generación Solar Spa and Las Catitas Photovoltaic Park. The project will contribute to conservation and energy efficiency in the region and provide energy to several areas of the school, including for the irrigation of fruit trees.

The Salesian Agricultural School is located in an area of the country that depends heavily on farming to sustain its economy. Many of the families living in the area suffer from the effects of devastating poverty, and the training helps farmers to increase their knowledge in the sector. The school also has a pig breeding unit that was launched in 2017 and provides courses for the production of sausages.

Salesian teachers provide young farmers with a basic education as well as advanced studies in the latest agricultural practices and modern technologies while moving toward efficiency in farming. This includes 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 working farms. 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,” said Father Gus Baek, 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 agricultural, vocational and technical schools in Chile cater to students who have dropped out of school and are seeking a second chance. In many programs, students complete their education while engaging in internships with local employers. This increases the students’ hands-on work experience and chance of gaining livable wage employment after their studies are completed.

“Salesian missionaries working in Chile focus their efforts on providing education and social programs to poor and at-risk youth,” added Fr. Baek. “At Salesian schools, universities and youth centers throughout the country, youth can access an education as well as the skills and resources necessary to find stable employment and improve their standard of living.”

According to the World Bank, Chile has a fairly low poverty rate of less than 10 percent. However, Chile struggles with high rates of income and education inequality. Salesian missionaries working in Chile focus their efforts on providing education and social services to poor and at-risk youth. At Salesian schools, universities and youth centers throughout the country, youth can access an education as well as the skills and resources necessary to break the cycle of poverty.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Chile – Salesian Agricultural School of Linares committed to implementation of a photovoltaic solar system

Salesian Agricultural School

Salesian Missions – Chile

World Bank – Chile