INDIA: Youth program receives award
Workforce development program impacts more than 30,000 youth
INDIA
(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Vazhikaatti team from Chennai and Trichy, India, has been recognized by the Tamil Nadu government’s Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare (ADTW) Department for its outstanding contribution providing career guidance to students in Adi Dravidar Welfare hostels and schools. Its efforts have positively impacted the career awareness and aspirations of more than 30,000 students across 38 districts in the state.
Lakshmi Priya, IAS, secretary for the ADTW Department, emphasized the importance of initiatives in uplifting marginalized communities. She said, “The Don Bosco Vazhikaatti team’s work has made a significant difference in the lives of many students. Their guidance has opened up new avenues for these students, enabling them to aspire to greater achievements.”
Through collaborative efforts with the ADTW Department, the Don Bosco Vazhikaatti team helped youth make informed decisions about their future educational and career choices. The team’s initiative is seen as a pivotal step toward enhancing the career prospects of students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Don Bosco Vazhikaatti operates in 50 schools in five districts of Tamil Nadu. In 2019, it launched a new project to provide career counseling and job placement services for poor students. Part of the funding for the start-up of the project came from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco.
Disadvantaged youth in some areas of India are historically poor and illiterate. Most are unaware that they can choose careers and improve their place in society. Many drop out of school to work and help support their families. The project provides guidance to help them discover their aptitude and interests, and explore career options for their successful future. Supportive services through the project also help youth develop a positive self-view, confidence and motivation to succeed.
“Salesian missionaries want youth to have the training and support to gain an education and find stable employment,” said Father Michael Conway, director of Salesian Missions. “Many youth don’t know all that is available to help them succeed. They are unable to see beyond their own circumstances. This project helps to show youth what resources are available and encourages them to tap into their passions.”
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 – Don Bosco Vazhikaatti Chennai and Trichy Empowers 30,000 Students; Receives Award from Tamil Nadu Government
Salesian Missions – India
World Bank – India
