Salesian students gain expertise in growing market of electric vehicles

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Mondo, a Salesian organization in Germany, has launched new e-mobility training at Salesian vocational schools in India. The goal is to tackle environmental and air pollution as well as high youth unemployment by providing training on electric vehicles.

Young automotive mechanic trainees in Mumbai had access to short e-mobility courses that are teaching how electric vehicles work, are maintained and are refurbished. This initiative is supported by BMZ Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development in Germany.

A Salesian explained, “With this new training and knowledge, Salesian students are sought-after experts in a growing market. Youth, who are on the fringes of society and have hardly had a chance to live a self-determined life, are becoming shining pioneers for a sustainable future for themselves, their families and ultimately for the whole world.”

India has the world’s fourth largest economy but more than 22% of the country lives in poverty. About 31% of the world’s multidimensionally poor children live in India, according to a report by the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative.

India’s youth face a lack of educational opportunities due to issues of caste, class and gender. Almost 44% of the workforce is illiterate and less than 10% of the working-age population has completed a secondary education. In addition, many secondary school graduates do not have the knowledge and skills to compete in today’s changing job market.

Salesian programs across India are primarily focused on education. Salesian primary and secondary education in the country helps youth prepare for later technical, vocational or university study. Other programs help to support poor youth and their families by meeting the basic needs of shelter, proper nutrition and medical care.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Green Alliance

Don Bosco Green Alliance – India: With full power towards a sustainable future

Don Bosco Mondo

Salesian Missions – India

World Bank – India