Many students come from families facing social, economic hardship

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Technical Center in Alafua, Samoa, is expanding educational opportunities for youth who are vulnerable through the construction of new classrooms. The project is supported by the Salesian Mission Office in Australia and a fundraising campaign with local families, former students, and donors, who have contributed 25% of the project budget.

Following site preparation work, which included the removal of an old block of toilets, the project has now entered the construction phase. The project is essential due to the rapid increase in enrollments, which has contributed to growing waiting lists and significant overcrowding affecting the entire school.

Once completed, the new facility will provide additional learning spaces, including a library and a study area, as well as new bathroom facilities and a classroom dedicated to the new air conditioning and refrigeration course.

Don Bosco Technical Center has become one of Samoa’s leading vocational training institutions. Founded by the Salesians in 1988, the school today has close to 500 students, many of whom come from families facing social and economic hardship. The school provides them with practical skills and internationally recognized qualifications, improving their employment prospects both in Samoa and abroad.

A Salesian explained, “Since becoming a coeducational school in 2020, the institution has also expanded opportunities for young women to access technical and vocational education, challenging traditional stereotypes and creating new pathways for Samoan girls. As demand for places continues to grow, the new classrooms will enable the school to accommodate a greater number of young people interested in pursuing technical training.”

A key element of the project is the opportunity it offers current vocational students to gain valuable practical experience by helping with the construction work wherever possible.

Although Samoa has made impressive progress in social development, many rural communities in the country grapple with an unequal distribution of wealth and benefits. Communities in remote parts of the islands are particularly vulnerable, especially in areas most likely to be affected by cyclones or other natural disasters. Gender inequality is apparent as women strive and often fail to find the same work and income opportunities as men. Youth find it increasingly difficult to find livable wage employment in the country.

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Samoa – An important step towards expanding educational opportunities for vulnerable young people

Salesian Missions – Samoa

World Bank – Samoa