HUMAN RIGHTS DAY: Salesian Missions highlights educational and social programs for youth
Salesians around the globe work to ensure all youth know their rights
(MissionNewswire) Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, joins humanitarian organizations and the international community in honoring Human Rights Day, celebrated each year on Dec. 10. Human Rights Day commemorates the day in 1948 when the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights has been translated into more than 500 languages. This milestone document proclaimed the inalienable rights that everyone is inherently entitled to as a human being — regardless of race, religion, sex, language, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth, or other status.
The United Nations noted, “Human rights can empower individuals and communities to forge a better tomorrow. By embracing and trusting the full power of human rights as the path to the world we want, we can become more peaceful, equal and sustainable.”
Salesian missionaries in more than 130 countries around the globe work to ensure that all youth know their rights, are able to fully participate in their communities and have their voices heard. They do this through access to education, health care and social programs.
Father Michael Conway, director of Salesian Missions, explained, “Salesian missionaries on the forefront in communities, ensuring youth have access to the education and supports needed to understand their rights and feel empowered to express them. Whether it’s combating child labor, assisting homeless youth or building schools where children previously had no access to education, Salesian missionaries educate and meet the basic needs of children in some of the poorest places on the planet.”
In honor of Human Rights Day, Salesian Missions highlights unique programs that are helping poor youth receive an education and find a path out of poverty, bringing them hope for the future.
DR CONGO
Salesian missionaries in the Democratic Republic of the Congo*, led by Father Carlos Balezi Kabumba, recently concluded a series of educational sessions aimed at raising awareness of the rights of women and minors. The training was held for children at the Salesian House in Gahinja and for girls from the Maison Marguerite Center.
At the end of the course, participants received certificates of completion. Salesians thanked the Salesian Mission Office in Bonn, Germany, for financial support and its commitment to the protection of the rights of women and children in this conflict-torn region.
Pascal Bauma, project manager, noted, “This initiative has been useful to assess the situation of many children living on the street, especially in the city of Goma. Many young people, due to difficult family situations, are forced to take to the streets. This problem is also aggravated by the influx of people displaced by the war in and around Goma.” Over the last years, Salesians have been dedicated to caring for displaced children, who are living at Salesian houses in the region.
INDIA
Don Bosco Center for Social Action Yadgir and Don Bosco Makkalalaya Mysore in India have been honored by Karnataka district authorities for their outstanding efforts in championing child rights.
The Don Bosco Center for Social Action, under Director Father Francis Shabu, has been at the forefront of safeguarding child rights and promoting education in vulnerable communities. To mark the occasion, the center organized a rally with over 1,400 participants. It was held in collaboration with government departments, spreading a powerful message against child labor and highlighting every child’s right to education.
Don Bosco Makkalalaya, headed by Father Jim Jose, also received a special award for its work with children at risk. The organization also led a rally involving more than 300 participants, joining the Labor Department to advocate for children’s rights and highlight the urgency of ending child labor.
A Salesian noted, “These recognitions underscore the deep commitment of the Salesians of Don Bosco to the cause of children, especially the most vulnerable and marginalized. At the core of these initiatives is BREADS Bangalore, the planning and development office of the Salesian Province, which continues to offer strong support, strategic direction, and resources ― empowering its partner centers to build safer, more just futures for children across Karnataka.”
LEBANON
Salesian missionaries have been able to provide emergency assistance for people impacted by the war in Lebanon* thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions. The “Emergency assistance for Fidar and Hossoun communities and refugees in Beirut” project is ensuring that families living in these communities have the basic essentials and the psychological support they need.
With donor funding, Salesians were able to provide medical assistance, psychosocial support, food supplies, fuel vouchers and warm clothes. Families were chosen from those involved with local Salesian centers and schools, including Don Bosco Technique, Don Bosco Hossoun oratories, and Angels of Peace School.
A Salesian noted, “Through coordinated efforts, our team provided immediate relief and laid the foundation for resilience and hope during an incredibly challenging period. Moreover, the project had a comprehensive and profound impact, as it combined educational support, psychological care and social activities to address the multifaceted needs of the various communities served by the Salesians.”
RWANDA
Don Bosco Muhazi Technical and Vocational School in Rwanda had the funding to support 260 students thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions. The funding provided food assistance and essential supplies. Fifty of these students, who live off school grounds, received hygiene kits, food supplies and rent support.
A Salesian noted, “This aid was especially crucial for students from remote areas who struggle to meet their basic needs while pursuing technical education. It enabled them to focus more effectively on their studies. School staff and students alike have expressed increased morale and hope with testimonies indicating that the aid has stabilized their living conditions temporarily. In the longer term, this support fosters resilience, reduces dropout rates, and promotes a conducive learning environment, helping students build a better future for themselves and their communities.”
Don Bosco Muhazi educates 261 youth aged 16-23. In the district 22.0% of people these ages previously attended school and have left for some reason, 75.2% are currently attending school and 2.8% have never attended secondary school.
Vumiriya Uwihoreye, a student benefiting from the program, said, “We are very happy. Many of us live in difficult circumstances, but seeing donors like this shows that there are many kind-hearted people interested in helping those with limited resources succeed.”
###
Sources:
DR CONGO: Women, minors learn rights
INDIA: Don Bosco organizations recognized for championing child rights
*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.
