Salesian missionaries provide a range of educational and social programs

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Fatumaca Elementary and Junior High School in Timor-Leste has grown its enrollment from 393 students to 579 and required more space. The school was able to construct a new classroom complex thanks to funding from Salesian Missions Australia and the O’Brien Foundation Australia, as well as from Salesians in Portugal and Timor-Leste.

The design of the complex allows for multiple uses, both during the school day and after hours. Father Alarico, project coordinator, said, “I would like to express my gratitude to the donors. The multi-purpose building with its generously proportioned classroom space will be ideal for the well-being of students and teachers.”

Students who gain a foundational education through the Don Bosco Fatumaca Elementary and Junior High School can advance on to Don Bosco Technical School Fatumaca, which provides vocational education that helps youth prepare for the future. Students have the opportunity to specialize in building construction, mechanical work, electrical installation and electronic communications. Partnerships with local radio and television stations provide hands-on work experience opportunities for the electronics students.

“Salesian missionaries provide a range of educational and social programs in Timor-Leste, ensuring youth have the services they need for a healthy, productive life,” said Father Michael Conway, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Youth are also able to access a range of programs including health services, nutrition, education and general support services.”

Timor-Leste is home to 1.4 million people and has close to 42% of its population living in poverty with over one-third of the population regularly experiencing food shortages. The country suffers from high unemployment, limited employment opportunities in the formal sector and job creation in the private sector that falls far short of demand.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions Australia

Australian Salesian Missions Overseas Aid Fund

Salesian Missions Australia News June 2024

Salesian Missions – Timor-Leste

World Bank – Timor-Leste