Recycling contest instills social responsibility

(MissionNewswire) Students in 7th grade at the Salesian Agricultural School in Catemu, Chile, recently won first place in a bottle cap recycling contest to contribute to the care of the environment. The school’s initiative also instilled the importance of social responsibility by contributing to waste reduction.

The students collected the most bottle caps during the recycling campaign with a total of 25 sacks, which is 11 more than last year. The collected items were delivered to the Clownrisas Aconcagua Foundation.

A Salesian said, “This achievement highlights the commitment of the educational community of the Agricultural School of Catemu with the preservation of the environment and the formation of responsible citizens. We congratulate all the students of the 7th grade for their dedication and enthusiasm in this noble cause. Let’s continue working together for a greener and more sustainable future.”

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

According to the World Bank, Chile has a fairly low poverty rate of less than 10%. 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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Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Green Alliance

Don Bosco Green Alliance – Salesianos Catemu in Chile collects beverage caps for a sustainable future!

Salesian Agricultural School

Salesian Missions – Chile

World Bank – Chile