COLOMBIA: Students gain skills in environmental protection

Salesians conduct waste management training project for youth
(MissionNewswire) The “FESOR Don Bosco” waste management training project for youth in Bogotá, Colombia, officially concluded with an event to share the results achieved by the project. Feedback was gathered to continue strengthening educational and environmental initiatives focused on the protection of the environment.
During the official closing ceremony, Salesians highlighted the opportunities created by this initiative, including the enhancement of training for youth, as well as the students’ personal growth and awareness in the field of environmental protection.
A Salesian noted, “With optimism and enthusiasm, we foresee the development of a future second phase of the project, which will allow us to continue on this path — equipping new generations with better tools to care for the planet and promoting real opportunities for sustainable employment in a country where environmental issues are becoming increasingly important.”
The event took place at the Don Bosco Obrero Center, which served as the pilot site for the Integrated Waste Management Module for Electrical and Electronic Equipment and a replica of the Solid Waste Management Module. It included organizations that supported the project including the Economic Cooperation and Development Office of the Swiss Embassy, the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development, and the United Nations Development Programme.
Also present were representatives of national organizations that are leaders in post-consumer strategies and electronic waste management. A special mention went to EcoPartner, one of the main sponsors of the project, which supported the Salesian center throughout all stages of planning, implementation, and monitoring.
Just over 34% of Colombians are living below the poverty line. Although Colombia is among the world’s emerging economies, more than three out of 10 Colombians still live in poor conditions. Colombia is also the world’s seventh most inequitable country. By providing education, workforce development services and social programs across Colombia, Salesian missionaries are working to empower youth and given them a chance at a better life.
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Sources:
ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)
ANS – Colombia – Conclusion of the “FESOR Don Bosco” Project: Youth Trained to Care for the Planet
Salesian Missions – Colombia
World Bank – Colombia