Graduates now taking part in on-the-job training

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Tech, located in the village of Rongajan in the state of Assam, India, held graduation for 25 youth. Originating from conflict-ridden areas, many of these students had previously dealt with homelessness, family loss and substance abuse. Through the free training initiative, youth found hope through developing job skills, specializing in food and beverage service in the hospitality industry.

With the leadership of Brother Sunny Joseph, the director of Don Bosco Tech, and dedicated staff, students gained basic computer skills, English language skills and soft skills in the two-and-a-half-month program. They also attended industrial training at The Wild Dhansiri Borgos in Golaghat, which provided first-hand insight into hotel operations. A 19-day practical training at Bonvilla Retreat and Iora The Retreat Hotel in Kaziranga further honed their skills.

By the end of the training, 15 students secured training positions as food service associates, housekeeping associates and front office associates at Vedik Resort in Gujarat. They are receiving a stipend along with food and accommodation for six months of on-the-job training. Another five students secured employment at Tamara Resort in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, and the remaining five candidates will gain employment at local placements at Borgos Hotel Kaziranga and The Wild Dhansiri Borgos, each offering compensation with food and accommodations.

A Salesian missionary said, “These trainees’ personal struggles with substance abuse serve as a testament to their resilience as they now embark on promising and dignified career paths.”

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.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Don Bosco South Asia

Don Bosco South Asia – Training at Don Bosco Triumphs in Transformative Career Journeys

Don Bosco Tech Rongajan

Salesian Missions – India

World Bank – India