427 students from Don Bosco Ngangi participate in school election process

(MissionNewswire) Students attending Don Bosco Ngangi in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, had an opportunity to take part in the democratic process with a school election. The 427 students voted for which student would represent them in the 2021-2022 school year.

The four candidates had an opportunity to present their platforms to the student body and answer questions. This was overseen by Father Augustin Mupoyi, prefect of studies. The school’s director of studies also did a presentation for the students about the importance of elections and stressed how important it was that students participate and are informed. After the candidates made their pitches, the vote was held and Prosper Nfundiko Kabalama was elected.

“This was a great example for students how their voices matter in the election process,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Many of the students attending Don Bosco Ngangi come from conditions of poverty and are at-risk of violence and other abuses. This is an important lesson for them where they could actively participate in the election process and see the outcome of their choice. It was empowering for students who often don’t have a voice.”

Don Bosco Ngangi is working to transform the lives of youth who are at high risk of becoming victims of communal violence. In addition to the life skills and technical and vocational skills training youth receive, Don Bosco Ngangi also provides a suitable environment for forming good Christians and honest, upright citizens.

Despite its vast material wealth, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has long been a very poor nation. Half of the country’s population lives below the poverty line living on less than $1 a day, especially those in rural communities. Because of ongoing strife and violence within the country, more than 8.5 million people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance. More than 4.1 million Congolese are now displaced with 620,000 seeking refuge in neighboring countries. More than 7.5 million people do not have enough food to eat.

Salesian missionaries have been working in the Democratic Republic of the Congo for more than 100 years ensuring that the most vulnerable children are not forgotten. Salesian primary and secondary schools and programs lay the foundation for early learning while Salesian trade, vocational and agricultural programs offer many youth the opportunity for a stable and productive future.

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Sources:

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

ANS – D.R. Congo – The students of “Don Bosco Ngangi” learn to exercise democracy

Don Bosco Ngangi Center

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.