Event recognizes work of founder Father Emilio Gambirasio 

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian-run Father Emilio Gambirasio Psychological Center celebrated its 60th anniversary, highlighting its service to youth, adults and families in Ecuador. The celebration brought together authorities from the Salesian Polytechnic University and the Salesian Province of Ecuador, as well as professionals from the center, partner institutions and members of the academic community.

The event was a moment of remembrance and gratitude toward the work started by Fr. Gambirasio, a Salesian pioneer focusing on psychology and education in Ecuador. His vision was to consider psychological assistance a right and not a luxury.

During her speech, María José Boada, director of the center, recalled Fr. Gambirasio’s profound conviction that “psychological help is a fundamental necessity for the full development of people.” She also pointed out that the center is an innovative space in vocational guidance and psychometrics, thanks to Father José Espinoza and a team of professionals.

Father Juan Cárdenas, rector of the Salesian Polytechnic University, emphasized the center’s contribution as a strategic ally of the academic world. He called it a “living laboratory where theory dialogues with practice and where academic training grows in relevance and depth.”

Further, Fr. Cárdenas noted that the center has made it possible to develop psychological intervention projects in different areas of the country and support highly sought-after degree courses such as psychology and clinical psychology. He also stressed that the experience of the Quito center inspired the recent opening of a new center in Cuenca.

As part of the 60th anniversary celebrations, the Municipality of the Metropolitan District of Quito awarded the center a recognition for its history, social impact and contribution to the emotional well-being of its citizens.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Ecuador – ‘Fr Emilio Gambirasio’ Psychological Centre: 60 years dedicated to transforming lives

Salesian Missions – Ecuador

UNICEF – Ecuador