Salesian Vocational Training Center Genoa launches new course for 18 migrants

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Vocational Training Center in Genoa, Italy, has launched a new mechanics’ motor vehicle repair course. The 500-hour training course, divided equally between classroom education and internships in companies, will help young migrants gain access to the skills for employment.

Thanks to funding from the Italian National Recovery and Resilience Plan, the training program will educate 18 migrants who are under age 25 and from Sub-Saharan Africa. They are currently housed in facilities managed by the Genoese White Cross. The goal is for them to learn how to repair motor vehicle thermal engines.

Walter Carrubba, president of the Genoese White Cross, said, “I think it is an excellent experience for these young people, both in terms of training and for their future work. I am sure we will be able to repeat the training course several times. We thank the National Salesian Works Center – Professional Refresher Training, the Genoa Solidale Committee and all those who have committed themselves to getting this project off the ground.”

“Since the time of Don Bosco, the priority and objective of Salesians is to train our young people from an intellectual, professional and human point of view,” said Father Maurizio Lollobrigida, head of the course. “With young people from other countries who must be integrated into the social fabric, the best form is work, which restores dignity and gives them the opportunity to emancipate themselves.”

While addressing the students at a launch event, the prefect of Genoa stressed, “You have to be very careful and committed because what you are given at the end of this course is a great opportunity that can also lead to a job opportunity. I recommend maximum commitment, I wish you my best wishes for a good course and I hope you can put it to good use.”

Luca Bonfiglio, from Genova Solidale, also expressed satisfaction with the project at the launch event. He said, “Today the first mechatronics course starts. It is the first step to try to help young people gain an education. Other courses will follow to ensure that the youth, almost all guests of the Genoese Extraordinary Reception Centers, can take a further step towards training and integration. We are also working directly with OpenJob, to ensure youth are able to work after graduation, provided they are in compliance with the documents.”

This is one project among many in Italy helping to train and integrate young migrants into their new country. In addition, Salesian programs across Italy help youth who are unable to attend school and others who drop out to work at the few jobs available to them. A growing number of children work as laborers on farms and others have turned to the sex trade to help support their families. Those in poverty often live without adequate shelter, hot water, regular meals and health care.

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Sources:

ANS – Italy – 18 young migrants in the Salesians course to become mechanics: “A great opportunity”

Salesian Missions – Italy

World Bank – Italy