URUGUAY

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Workshops, located in Montevideo, Uruguay, has launched a new photovoltaic microgeneration park and an electric vehicle technician training workshop. Authorities from the government, school staff, teachers and students attended a ceremony to celebrate the start of these two cutting-edge projects.

Father Miguel Suárez, rector of Don Bosco Workshops, highlighted that these projects are beginning as the school celebrates its 130th anniversary. The school is also a part of the Salesian Vocational Centers of America Network, composed of 22 centers.

Fr. Suárez said, “There is talk of changes in the DNA of education that is more rapid and dynamic. At Don Bosco Workshops, we are determined to accept the new challenges.”

He also highlighted that the school is focused on preparing youth for the future and recalled that with the help of the Inter-American Development Bank in 2000, Don Bosco Workshops began a process of skills-based education and training and adapting curricula according to the demands of the labor market.

Don Bosco Workshops has been focused on clean and renewable energy since August 2022. Thanks to foundation funding, the school added 150 photovoltaic panels on the roof, which will cut electricity consumption by more than 35 percent, allowing the funds that are saved to be used for educational innovation and technological upgrading. In addition, new training in the field of electric mobility has started.

Fr. Suárez added, “History has placed us in a labor market that requires skilled labor. We prepare youth for future employment with added soft skills and values. Salesian education has been a valid option for families who send their children to study in Montevideo from all corners of the country.”

Silvia Emaldi, president of the National Administration of State Electric Utilities and Transmission, expressed her gratitude for the contributions that will work for a better Uruguay.

Emaldi said, “As a Salesian past pupil, it is a great thrill to share and to see how many young people and teachers continue to make sure that Salesian work in the country is based on key values, such as study and work, that allow us to have opportunities throughout our lives. I am thrilled that my country’s specialists in the future of work have found in the courses being inaugurated here today, electric mobility and renewable energy, the careers of the future.”

Salesian missionaries offer many programs in Uruguay including shelters, primary and secondary schools, and technical and vocational education centers that help youth prepare for the future and learn the skills to be independent.

Uruguay has managed to decrease its poverty rate by almost half since 2007. Today, the poverty rate is close to 10 percent with the majority of poor residents concentrated in rural towns and villages. In addition to a lack of education and employment opportunities, access to affordable housing is a concern for many poor families. Many do not have the resources to purchase homes or land to build on, and schools are often so far away children cannot attend.

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

ANS – Uruguay – “Talleres Don Bosco” inaugurates two clean and renewable energy generation projects

Salesian Missions – Uruguay

World Bank – Uruguay

The post URUGUAY: Students access cutting-edge clean energy projects first appeared on MissionNewswire.

URUGUAY

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian-run  St. Francis de Sales High School and College, located in Montevideo, Uruguay, is launching a bachelor’s degree in integral ecological education this school term. The objective is to help youth understand environmental impact and their role in helping to preserve the environment.

The course of study was developed in response to Pope Francis’ 2020 Laudato Si’, which has as its theme “Good Christians and Upright Citizens.” Pope Francis underlined the importance of education and training that will help youth shape a lifestyle and foster environmental responsibility. Rector Major Father Ángel Fernández Artime also noted the importance of concrete initiatives in the care of the environment. The first objective is encouraging the environmental commitment of youth.

The curriculum of the bachelor’s degree is structured around care for the person and quality of life, care for others, and care for our planet. The activities proposed will allow the exchange between young students and reality so that they can acquire the necessary skills to take care of their lives and the planet.

St. Francis de Sales has been in operation for 114 years. Four years ago, it developed an initiative known as “Bumerang” aimed at strengthening environmental awareness among students and educators. In addition to workshops to raise awareness, the initiative also focused on waste separation.

“Salesian organizations in more than 130 countries have a focus on the environment,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesians, staff and students are working to create an environment that is safe and caring for all life on the planet while building up a new generation of environmentally committed citizens and leaders.”

Salesian missionaries offer many programs in Uruguay including shelters, primary and secondary schools, and technical and vocational education centers that help youth prepare for the future and learn the skills to be independent.

Uruguay has managed to decrease its poverty rate by almost half since 2007. Today, the poverty rate is close to 10 percent with the majority of poor residents concentrated in rural towns and villages.

Most rural citizens in the country do not have the financial resources or education and training necessary to find and maintain stable employment. Running a profitable business venture or maintaining a small farm with access to the national and international markets is increasingly competitive and remains largely out of reach, especially in households run by women. The majority of rural poor are those most often engaged in non-agricultural activities.

In addition to a lack of education and employment opportunities, access to affordable housing is a concern for many poor families in Uruguay. Many do not have the resources to purchase homes or land to build on, and schools are often so far away children cannot attend.

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

ANS – Uruguay – St. Francis de Sales College and Secondary School inaugurates its “Integral Ecological Baccalaureate”, declared of interest by Environment Ministry

Salesian Missions – Uruguay

World Bank – Uruguay

The post URUGUAY: New degree focuses on environmental impact first appeared on MissionNewswire.

URUGUAY

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian St. Isidore School, located in Las Piedras, Uruguay, launched a Forest of Hope in celebration of its 140 years in operation. A celebratory event kicked off the project at Héctor Ellis Park and was attended by Father Alfonso Bauer, Salesian provincial of Uruguay, departmental authorities, representatives of the Heritage Committee, inspectors for the primary school, and delegations from local, public and private educational institutions.

At the event, students taking the agronomy course explained how they are carrying out the project which they consider a legacy for future generations of school students. They thanked the school’s principal, teachers, staff, students, and past pupils who motivated and supported them in the project’s development.

Father Andrés Boone, principal of St. Isidore School, said, “I didn’t want another plaque on the school wall. I had wanted the current generations of the school to leave something for future generations, for the world of tomorrow and for the city of Las Piedras. I called this dream ‘The Forest’ and later it was called the Forest of Hope. We have also joined the Don Bosco Green Alliance.”

Don Bosco Green Alliance members work to create an environment that is safe and caring for all life on the planet while building up a new generation of environmentally committed citizens and leaders. The organization’s priorities are combating pollution, reducing global warming and eliminating disposable plastics.

Fr. Boone added, “It is necessary to create an awareness of ecological citizenship, which goes beyond teaching. It is about developing ecological habits, attitudes and an ecological lifestyle.”

Event attendees were invited to visit the forest and plant trees wherever they wished. The students at the school will be responsible for the upkeep of the forest and for planting new trees.

Salesian missionaries offer many programs in Uruguay including shelters, primary and secondary schools, and technical and vocational education centers that help youth prepare for the future and learn the skills to be independent.

Uruguay has managed to decrease its poverty rate by almost half since 2007. Today, the poverty rate is close to 10 percent with the majority of poor residents concentrated in rural towns and villages.

Most rural citizens in the country do not have the financial resources or education and training necessary to find and maintain stable employment. Running a profitable business venture or maintaining a small farm with access to the national and international markets is increasingly competitive and remains largely out of reach, especially in households run by women. The majority of rural poor are those most often engaged in non-agricultural activities.

In addition to a lack of education and employment opportunities, access to affordable housing is a concern for many poor families in Uruguay. Many do not have the resources to purchase homes or land to build on, and schools are often so far away children cannot attend.

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

ANS – Uruguay – “Forest of Hope” to celebrate St Isidore school’s 140th anniversary

Salesian Missions – Uruguay

World Bank – Uruguay

The post URUGUAY: Forest project gives legacy for school’s future generations first appeared on MissionNewswire.

URUGUAY

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have opened Casa Valdocco in Montevideo, Uruguay, to provide support 35 children between the ages of 5-12 who need assistance from the state. Casa Valdocco’s main objective is to ensure that children spend as little time as possible in public institutions and instead be in a family-like environment. The project is part of the Network of Salesian Social Works, coordinated by the Trampoline Foundation. It will be managed by a group of lay Salesians accompanied by a staff of 25 who are experts in various disciplines.

An inauguration ceremony was attended by the Salesian staff and administrators, as well as authorities from the Child and Adolescent Institute, Provincial Father Alfonso Bauer, Archbishop of Montevideo Cardinal Daniel Sturla, and Father Marcelo Fontona, the director of the Trampoline Foundation.

Pablo Abdala, president of the Child and Adolescent Institute, said, “We will work with children to ensure that they are protected, cared for, assisted and accompanied in the exercise of their rights with the aim of strengthening their family ties when they have been weakened.”

He added, “The rich tradition of understanding between the Institute and the Salesian Society alone can do many things, but, together, we can do many more, completing the efforts to achieve the promotion of human rights of children, which is a social task of the state and civil society.”

Fr. Bauer noted that the Network of Salesian Social Works had been working on the project as a response to the need for support for these children. He emphasized that the house is called Casa Valdocco, in reference to the first oratory founded by Don Bosco. Fr. Bauer said, “In this house, children will feel loved, accompanied and valued. It is about putting them at the center of all our concerns and providing the necessary support to reintegrate them into society and having faith in their full potential.”

Salesian missionaries offer many programs in Montevideo including shelters, primary and secondary schools, and technical and vocational education centers that help youth prepare for the future and learn the skills to be independent.

Uruguay has managed to decrease its poverty rate by almost half since 2007. Today, the poverty rate is close to 10 percent with the majority of poor residents concentrated in rural towns and villages.

Most rural citizens in the country do not have the financial resources or education and training necessary to find and maintain stable employment. Running a profitable business venture or maintaining a small farm with access to the national and international markets is increasingly competitive and remains largely out of reach, especially in households run by women. The majority of rural poor are those most often engaged in non-agricultural activities.

In addition to a lack of education and employment opportunities, access to affordable housing is a concern for many poor families in Uruguay. Many do not have the resources to purchase homes or land to build on, and schools are often so far away children cannot attend.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Uruguay – “Casa Valdocco” inaugurated: a house open 24 hours a day

Salesian Missions – Uruguay

World Bank – Uruguay

The post URUGUAY: New home for children provides family-like environment first appeared on MissionNewswire.

URUGUAY

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Workshops (Talleres Don Bosco), located in Montevideo, Uruguay, and the National Institute for the Social Inclusion of Adolescents (INISA) signed an agreement to provide education for youth who are about to leave incarceration. The youth will take a mechanics course at Don Bosco Workshops in the hopes of developing employable skills.

“This event connects us to our Salesian mission,” said Father Marcelo Fontona, who signed the agreement on behalf of Don Bosco Workshops. “This gives us joy for the possibility it means for these young people for whom we want to generate other life opportunities.”

Fr. Fontona also noted that Salesians have facilitated a similar project in Salto. Over the past 20 years, Salesians have been providing education for youth who were once incarcerated and want to have job prospects once they re-enter society.

The agreement, also signed by Unión Capital AFAP, will educate 10 youth from INISA centers in a vehicle mechanics for gasoline engines course. There is already a waiting list for this program because many youth believe it’s a viable option for them for employment.

At the signing of the agreement, Dr. Rosanna de Olivera Méndez, president of INISA, said, “I am very happy, and today is a very important day. We are innovating. It is the first time that we have signed this framework agreement with Don Bosco Workshops, which has great prestige. At INISA, we have the mission and commitment to give these adolescents, who have difficult and traumatic life stories, the opportunity to find their vocation.”

She added, “We have a responsibility to leave them a network that includes their health, their family but also formation and the possibility of entering the job market. If we do not give them the opportunity to go out with real training and the opportunity to find decent work, it is difficult for them to support themselves. We know that at Don Bosco Workshops they are trained technically, but also in values, discipline, respect for timetables, and citizenship, because they need support to be good citizens and to be aware that crime is not a valid path, that there is another way.”

Youth crime is on the rise in the country. More than 35 percent of crime committed by adolescents can be traced back to a lack of educational opportunities and employment inequality, according to a study by the Center for the Study of Economic and Social Reality. The report also noted that crime rates among young people in Uruguay have doubled over the past 15 years and the rate of violent assaults has quadrupled.

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

ANS – Uruguay – Freedom-deprived youth to study Mechanics at “Talleres Don Bosco” with INISA

Salesian Missions – Uruguay

Talleres Don Bosco

World Bank – Uruguay

The post URUGUAY: Youth leaving incarceration to receive job training first appeared on MissionNewswire.

URUGUAY

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Institute Pio IX of Villa Colón, located in Montevideo, Uruguay, launched a new dormitory to shelter people without homes during winter nights. It is the first dormitory to be opened as a result of the coordination of the Ministry of Social Development with La Olla de Villa Colón, an initiative of the Salesian Youth Movement of Villa Colón.

The dormitory is providing shelter for many people who do not want to enter other more structured centers. Juan José Malvárez, a Salesian past pupil and official from the National Directorate for Social Protection for the Ministry of Social Development, said, “This is a collaborative initiative with organizations that know the people who live on the street and with whom they have a bond of trust. For this reason, they are ready and willing to spend the night in these dormitories. This relational component makes the difference.”

La Olla de Villa Colón was created five years ago by the Salesian Youth Movement. Every Friday evening from March to December, its members go to meet those who live on the street with food that helps nourish them and also builds bonds. Volunteers with the Salesian Youth Movement listen to them and remind them of their dignity. Gradually over time, volunteers are then able to offer more help.

This year, with the collaboration of Ministry of Social Development, volunteers helped people without homes get vaccinated against COVID-19 and hosted other events to help encourage them to utilize the new dormitory.

“This idea for a new dormitory arose two months ago. We did tests to meet the homeless people all together in one place, to test mutual coexistence, and when we told them about it, they exploded with joy,” said Juan Pablo Paipó, one of the youth working with La Olla de Villa Colón.

The dormitory is located on a large property in a house that was specially renovated with the collaboration of the Salesian community and other benefactors. Its new inhabitants will have beds with new mattresses, pillows and blankets. Each bed will also have a name of the person who occupies it for a more personal touch.

Uruguay has managed to decrease its poverty rate by almost half since 2007. Today, the poverty rate is close to 10 percent with the majority of poor residents concentrated in rural towns and villages.

Most rural citizens in the country do not have the financial resources or education and training necessary to find and maintain stable employment. Running a profitable business venture or maintaining a small farm with access to the national and international markets is increasingly competitive and remains largely out of reach, especially in households run by women. The majority of rural poor are those most often engaged in non-agricultural activities.

In addition to a lack of education and employment opportunities, access to affordable housing is a concern for many poor families in Uruguay. Many do not have the resources to purchase homes or land to build on, and schools are often so far away children cannot attend.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Uruguay – Dormitory for homeless people inaugurated in Salesian institute “Pius IX” in Montevideo

Salesian Missions – Uruguay

Salesian Youth Movement

World Bank – Uruguay

The post URUGUAY: New dormitory launches to provide shelter first appeared on MissionNewswire.

URUGUAY

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco School of Arts and Crafts recently celebrated its 50th anniversary in the Marconi district of Montevideo, Uruguay. The school was founded after the owners of the location decided to donate the land to the Daughters of the Nativity of Mary requesting that they do something to help contribute to the growth of youth in the area. The school was first named the Banneux School of Arts and Crafts.

In the 1980s, Salesian missionaries arrived in the region and began collaborating with the Daughters of the Nativity of Mary, and later, Salesians took over work at the school, linking it to the Tacurú Movement project.

Today the school provides education to close to 200 youth, and it is focused on how to grow the school and enrich programs for its students. Students who graduate are able to go onto one year at the University of Labour of Uruguay and obtain a secondary school diploma. This collaboration between the schools started in 2010, and 50 students access this accreditation every year.

“Don Bosco School of Arts and Crafts collaborates with other organizations in the area to generate mutual enrichment that fosters a culture of peaceful coexistence,” said Beatriz Brites, school coordinator. “There are many good and troubled families who seek the best for their children. I hope they can find dignified work, which is undoubtedly what they need to have the neighborhood grow.”

Uruguay has managed to decrease its poverty rate by almost half since 2007. Today, the poverty rate is close to 10 percent with the majority of poor residents concentrated in rural towns and villages.

Most rural citizens in the country do not have the financial resources or education and training necessary to find and maintain stable employment. Running a profitable business venture or maintaining a small farm with access to the national and international markets is increasingly competitive and remains largely out of reach, especially in households run by women alone. The majority of rural poor are those most often engaged in non-agricultural activities.

In addition to a lack of education and employment opportunities, access to affordable housing is a concern for many poor families in Uruguay. Many do not have the resources to purchase homes or land to build on, and schools are often so far away children cannot attend.

Youth crime is on the rise in the country. More than 35 percent of crime committed by adolescents can be traced back to a lack of educational opportunities and employment inequality, according to a study by the Center for the Study of Economic and Social Reality. The report also noted that crime rates among young people in Uruguay have doubled over the past 15 years and the rate of violent assaults has quadrupled.

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

ANS – Uruguay – “Don Bosco School of Arts & Crafts – Tacurú Movement”: for 50 years a presence of God in Marconi district

Salesian Missions – Uruguay

Talleres Don Bosco

World Bank – Uruguay

The post URUGUAY: School celebrates 50 years of serving students first appeared on MissionNewswire.

URUGUAY

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Youth Center in Salto, Uruguay, celebrated its 25th anniversary on Oct. 1. Since its inception, the center has transformed the lives of vulnerable youth. Today, 97 youth between 12 and 18 take part in activities at the Salesian Youth Center. They are supported by the 19 Salesian staff and volunteers who operate programs and assist youth with educational initiatives to help them learn and grow.

The Salesian Youth Center offers vocational training through woodworking and metal workshops, as well as cooking classes focusing on regional cuisine. There is socio-educational space for group learning activities and a space for recreation and sports where youth can engage with their peers. The center also assists families to help them understand how best to support youth at home to focus and continue their education.

“Salesians have been working with youth in Uruguay for many years, providing educational and social development opportunities to help them break the cycle of poverty and lead productive lives,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “In addition to educating youth, Salesians in Uruguay focus on crime prevention by working to keep youth off the streets and engaged in productive activities. These activities focus on education and skill development giving youth better coping skills so they can be more connected to their communities and deterred from criminal activity.”

Uruguay has managed to decrease its poverty rate by almost half since 2007. Today, the poverty rate is close to 10 percent with the majority of poor residents concentrated in rural towns and villages.

Most rural citizens in the country do not have the financial resources or education and training necessary to find and maintain stable employment. Running a profitable business venture or maintaining a small farm with access to the national and international markets is increasingly competitive and remains largely out of reach, especially in households run by women alone. The majority of rural poor are those most often engaged in non-agricultural activities.

In addition to a lack of education and employment opportunities, access to affordable housing is a concern for many poor families in Uruguay. Many do not have the resources to purchase homes or land to build on, and schools are often so far away children cannot attend.

Youth crime is on the rise in the country. More than 35 percent of crime committed by adolescents can be traced back to a lack of educational opportunities and employment inequality, according to a recent study by the Center for the Study of Economic and Social Reality. The report also noted that crime rates among young people in Uruguay have doubled over the past 15 years and the rate of violent assaults has quadrupled.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Uruguay – 25 years of Youth Center of Don Bosco Social Work in Salto

Salesian Missions – Uruguay

World Bank – Uruguay

The post URUGUAY: Salesian Youth Center in Salto celebrates 25 years of providing youth programs first appeared on MissionNewswire.

URUGUAY

(MissionNewswire) The Mamma Margherita Mother and Child Care Center, which is part of the Domenico Savio Institute in the Ituzaingó neighborhood in Uruguay, had just opened five months prior to the coronavirus pandemic. While regulations won’t allow the Salesian child care center to accommodate children and their families onsite during the quarantine, the team of educators continues to be attentive to their multiple needs.

During normal operations, the center served 108 children (1-2 years old) and their families. In addition to the care and educational programs provided, all were offered food, including breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks, and snacks for children staying eight hours.

The staff at the center has continued to find ways to support these families even at a distance. Coordinator Camila Gil said, “From Monday, March 16 on, following regulations, we stopped taking care of the children in the center and started reaching out to the families by telephone. From these calls, we learned that some parents have lost their jobs or started having health problems. In cases where we have identified the greatest need, we have supported them with food, first by supplying them with the food cooked in the day, and then by delivering baskets of dry food, fruit and vegetables. Through WhatsApp, we also send information on social benefits, prevention measures, and emergency numbers in case of health problems or violence.”

Salesians in Uruguay and around the globe continue to find ways to support children and families in need during this difficult time. Salesians have been working with youth in Uruguay for many years, providing educational and social development opportunities to help them break the cycle of poverty and lead productive lives.

Uruguay has managed to decrease its poverty rate by almost half since 2007. Today, the poverty rate is close to 10 percent with the majority of poor residents concentrated in rural towns and villages.

Most rural citizens in the country do not have the financial resources or education and training necessary to find and maintain stable employment. Running a profitable business venture or maintaining a small farm with access to the national and international markets is increasingly competitive and remains largely out of reach, especially in households run by women alone. The majority of rural poor are those most often engaged in non-agricultural activities.

In addition to a lack of education and employment opportunities, access to affordable housing is a concern for many poor families in Uruguay. Many do not have the resources to purchase homes or land to build on, and schools are often so far away children cannot attend.

Youth crime is on the rise in the country. More than 35 percent of crime committed by adolescents can be traced back to a lack of educational opportunities and employment inequality, according to a recent study by the Center for the Study of Economic and Social Reality. The report also noted that crime rates among young people in Uruguay have doubled over the past 15 years and the rate of violent assaults has quadrupled.

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

ANS – Uruguay – “We’ve built a bond based on trust and closeness”: CAIF in Salesian land in time of Covid-19

Salesian Missions – Uruguay

World Bank – Uruguay

The post URUGUAY: Staff at the Mamma Margherita Mother and Child Care Center continues to reach out and provide resources at a distance during the quarantine first appeared on MissionNewswire.

Most rural citizens in the country do not have the financial resources or education and training necessary to find and maintain stable employment. Running a profitable business venture or maintaining a small farm with access to the national and international markets is increasingly competitive and remains largely out of reach, especially in households run by women alone. The majority of rural poor are those most often engaged in non-agricultural activities.

In addition to a lack of education and employment opportunities, access to affordable housing is a concern for many poor families in Uruguay. Many do not have the resources to purchase homes or land to build on, and schools are often so far away children cannot attend.

Youth crime is on the rise in the country. More than 35 percent of crime committed by adolescents can be traced back to a lack of educational opportunities and employment inequality, according to a recent study by the Center for the Study of Economic and Social Reality. The report also noted that crime rates among young people in Uruguay have doubled over the past 15 years and the rate of violent assaults has quadrupled.

Salesians have been working with youth in Uruguay for many years, providing educational and social development opportunities to help them break the cycle of poverty and lead productive lives. In addition to educating youth, Salesians in Uruguay focus on crime prevention by working to keep youth off the streets and engaged in productive activities. These activities focus on education and skill development giving youth better coping skills so they can be more connected to their communities and deterred from criminal activity.

More than 1,700 youth are engaged in educational activities in 32 Salesian-run youth centers and programs across Uruguay. Additional Salesian programs like Don Bosco Social Work, Santa Monica and Bosco Center work with more than 2,500 youth providing for their basic needs and working to prevent at-risk youth from falling into criminal activity.

The Salesian-run Miguel Magone Project is focused on working with youth who have already committed crimes and are engaged in Uruguay’s criminal justice system in the capital city of Salto in northwestern Uruguay. The project aims to ensure that youth are not abused by the criminal justice system and that programs are in place to provide them with counseling and an education to give them a better start once released from juvenile detention or prison.

“The young people who commit crimes are just the tip of the iceberg of a complex social reality, they are the ‘fuse blowing up’, and are the vulnerable children of a society that suffers from a heavy loss of those values which humanize and help people grow,” said Father Nestor Castell Henderson, provincial of Uruguay, in a recent statement addressing concern over Uruguay’s referendum and discussion to decrease the legal age of criminal responsibility from 18 to 16 years.

“I am convinced that it is a mistake to believe that this situation will be resolved with sanctions, moreover, experience that tells us that increasing sanctions will not only not solve the problem, but rather make it worse,” added Fr. Castell Henderson. “The punishment, and fear of punishments, are not what will educate the young and make them part of society: the prison is not the place for their education.”

Salesians in Uruguay believe that by providing education and workforce development services to youth, along with social development activities, they can will help youth choose a better path than a life on the streets or engaged in criminal activity.

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ANS – Uruguay – “The Prison is not the place for their education” (Fr. Castell) the Miguel Magone Project

Dialogo – Uruguay: Education as a solution to juvenile delinquency

World Bank – Uruguay

Salesian Missions – Uruguay

The post URUGUAY: Salesians Focus on Crime Prevention and More Educational Opportunities for Youth first appeared on MissionNewswire.

Most of these poor, rural citizens do not have the financial resources or education and training necessary to find and maintain stable employment. Running a profitable business venture or maintaining a small farm with access to the national and international markets is increasingly competitive and remains out of reach, especially in households run by women alone. The majority of rural poor are those most often engaged in non-agricultural activities.

In addition to a lack of education and employment opportunities, access to affordable housing is a concern for many poor families in Uruguay. Many do not have the resources to purchase homes or land to build on, and schools are often so far away children cannot attend.

A Salesian initiative called Ñande which means, “one of us” in the Guarani language, brings together technical experts who provide resources and expertise to Salesian programs in Uruguay. As of this month, the initiative has provided 13 houses for families in the Manchego neighborhood of Montevideo. Ñande works in collaboration with the Salesian Province of Uruguay, a Salesian program called the Tacurú Movement, the Municipality of Montevideo and the Ministry of Housing.

The technical experts working with Ñande provided the resources and expertise to find the homes. Students with the Tacurú Movement made up the workforce, fixing up the homes and land, and The Ministry of Housing, Spatial Planning and the Environment with the Municipality of Montevideo financed and coordinated the work.

“This was possible because everybody did everything that could be done to make the plan a reality,” said Diego de Angelis, director of Ñande, during the inauguration of the houses.

The organization aims to continue its work with the goal of providing 28 more homes for families living in the same area.

“The Salesians know this work cannot always be accomplished alone,” says Father Mark Hyde, executive director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesians are working within communities so they see the need first hand and know the local resources available. They then are able to bring everyone together to work towards a common goal. A project like this takes the combined initiative of local residents and businesses, non-government agencies and the government.”

Approximately 18,000 children living in rural areas of Uruguay cannot afford tuition and live too far away from a school to access an education. In these remote regions, students are able to attend Salesian schools for secondary education and agricultural training. School is free of charge and nearly 1,600 students attend. One such school, the Tacurú Movement’s, Don Bosco School of Arts and Crafts, provides training and education as well as offering social service programs.

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ANS – Uruguay – 13 houses for needy families

World Bank – Uruguay

The post URUGUAY: Salesian Collaboration Provides Homes to 13 Poor Families first appeared on MissionNewswire.

The meeting between the Secretary-General and the President of Tunisia, Moncef Marzouki, saw the two men discuss the North African nation’s constitution-making process and women’s empowerment, as well as the President’s efforts to promote economic recovery and regional integration within the Arab Maghreb Union. They also discussed the impact of recent attacks in Tunisia by extremists.

Libya’s democratic transformation process, as well as the security situation in the country following the attack on the US Consulate in Benghazi, was a topic for discussion in the Secretary-General’s meeting with President of the General National Congress of Libya, Mohamed Yousef El-Magariaf.

They also discussed continued cooperation with the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), and they agreed on the importance of the Alliance of Civilizations, especially in light of the recent intolerance and violence. Mr. Ban also underlined the need for a comprehensive review of the status of conflict-related detainees, and both men agreed on the need for human rights and due process to be respected.

Senegal’s long-running conflict in its southern Casamance region, as well as the latest developments regarding the prosecution of former Chadian Head of State Hissennè Habré, were covered in the Secretary-General’s meeting with the African country’s President Macky Sall.

They also exchanged views on the situation in Guinea-Bissau, Mali and the Sahel region, and on ways for the international community to support the region in addressing these crises. In addition, they discussed the importance of international partnerships to try to alleviate the problems resulting from global climate change, as well as drought in the Sahel.

The situation in Mali was also discussed in the Secretary-General’s meeting with the Foreign Affairs Minister of Burkina Faso, Djibrill Yipènè Bassolé. In addition, they discussed the upcoming electoral process in Burkina Faso and exchanged views on the situation in Côte d’Ivoire.

In his meeting with the President of Togo, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, the Secretary-General welcomed the African leader’s efforts to engage in national dialogue with opposition parties and encouraged him to work towards the creation of a more conducive environment for the conduct of legislative elections.

Mr. Ban and the President also discussed Togo’s efforts towards the achievement of the anti-poverty targets known as the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in the areas of education and agriculture. The UN chief underscored the importance of Africa’s constant efforts towards enhanced regional unity, coordination and cooperation for peace and sustainable development – and he urged Togo to continue to play a leading role in this regard.

Meeting with the Vice-President of South Sudan, Riek Machar Teny-Dhurgon, the Secretary-General commended the Government, and its President Salva Kiir in particular, for reaching agreements with the Government of Sudan on post-secession issues at a meeting in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa earlier this week. The two men also discussed the current situation in South Sudan, particularly in the state of Jonglei.

Meeting with Burundi’s First Vice-President, Therence Sinunguruza, the Secretary-General thanked the African country for its contribution to peace in Somalia and welcomed its readiness to participate in peacekeeping efforts.

They also discussed the human rights situation and peace consolidation efforts in Burundi, including the establishment of the truth and reconciliation commission and preparations for the next elections.

In their meeting, the Secretary-General and the Federal Minister for European and International Affairs of the Republic of Austria, Michael Spindelegger, discussed a range of issues of mutual interest, including the Western Balkans, the Alliance of Civilizations and its upcoming Annual Forum to be held in Vienna in February 2013, and efforts to reform the UN Secretariat.

The two men also agreed that it is essential for the international community to pursue mutual understanding, tolerance and cooperation through cross-cultural dialogue.

The situations in Syria and Afghanistan were among the topics discussed in the meeting between the Secretary-General and Sweden’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Carl Bildt.

They agreed on the gravity of the situation in Syria, and the urgent need to find a solution and to address the humanitarian crisis there. Concerning Afghanistan, they discussed the upcoming elections and the importance of ensuring continued and long-term international commitment to support the Afghan people towards national reconciliation and stability.

The Secretary-General exchanged views on developments in the Western Balkans in his meeting with Slovenia’s Prime Minister, Janez Janša. They also discussed issues relating to the principle known as the responsibility to protect, and the involvement and participation of civil society in this context, in addition to discussing the situation in Syria.

Malta’s role as a strong advocate for tackling climate change, as well as its contributions to international efforts to combat piracy, was discussed in the Secretary-General’s meeting with the Mediterranean nation’s Deputy Prime Minister, Dr. Tonio Borg,

They also exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East and North Africa and Malta’s strategic role as “a bridge between North and South,” in addition to discussing the immigration and refugee issue in the Mediterranean region. The Secretary-General commended Malta’s efforts in this regard and recalled the importance of upholding the human rights of those affected.

The President of Albania, Bujar Nishani, emphasized his country’s commitment to UN principles and actions – especially regarding human rights, women’s empowerment and peacekeeping – in his meeting with the Secretary-General.

They discussed developments in Albania and UN-Albanian cooperation, and Mr. Ban thanked Albania for its support in piloting the UN’s Delivering as One initiative. They also exchanged views on progress in the areas of peace and stability in the region.

In the meeting between the Secretary-General and San Marino’s Minister for Foreign and Political Affairs, Antonella Mularoni, the two discussed the political and economic situation in the small landlocked nation and in Europe, with Mr. Ban thanking San Marino for its continuing support to the UN.

The Secretary-General discussed regional cooperation – particularly the need to find a mutually acceptable solution to the region’s water and energy challenges – in a meeting with Turkmenistan’s Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Rashid Meredov.

The two men also recognized the useful role of the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA) and its head.

Uruguay’s presidency of the Geneva-based Human Rights Council and its participation in UN peacekeeping operations were discussed in the Secretary-General’s meeting with the Latin American country’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Luis Almagro. Other topics discussed included the implementation of the Delivering as One programme in Uruguay, the issue of drug control and regional developments.

In the meeting between the Secretary-General and the Crown Prince of Brunei Darussalam, Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the two men discussed issues related to UN-Brunei cooperation and the UN-Association of Southeast Asian Nations Comprehensive Partnership.

Also on Friday, the Deputy Secretary-General, Jan Eliasson, met with Nepal’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Narayan Kaji Shrestha. They exchanged views on Nepal’s peace and constitution-making process and the economic and social situation in the country, including the MDGs.

The Deputy Prime Minister expressed appreciation for the role of the United Nations in Nepal’s peace process, and briefed Mr. Eliasson on current efforts to end the political deadlock and to move forward, including possibly through new elections. The Deputy Secretary-General was encouraged by the new efforts and urged the Nepalese parties to complete the constitution-making process without delay while protecting the gains achieved so far.

The pair also exchanged views on the importance of transitional justice and international standards in the context of Nepal’s peace process, and Mr. Eliasson expressed his appreciation for Nepal’s contribution to United Nations peacekeeping.

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PHOTO: Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

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