VENEZUELA: Agronomy school increases youth skills, provides needed food
Salesian Agronomic Technical School builds capacity in rural areas
VENEZUELA
(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Agronomic Technical School in Barinas, Venezuela*, provides close to 100 students between the ages of 15-17 with an agricultural and livestock education. While attending school, youth have access to nutrition and health care, as well as recreational and extracurricular activities. They find a welcoming space and a family atmosphere where they have the support of adults and can connect with their peers.
This year the school has re-activated the production of milk and other agricultural products thanks to the Salesian Mission Office based in Madrid. Rafael Garrido, head of the organization’s Latin America projects, said, “This project guarantees the sustainability of the Barinas school, reactivates the productive sector and at the same time strengthens the technical capacities of young people in vulnerable situations in rural areas. This also allows students, teachers, staff and the community to have healthy and nutritious food.”
Currently in Venezuela, basic products are difficult to find, and more than 50% of the population lives in poverty. Project funding is also improving infrastructure, purchasing seeds and livestock, and strengthening educational and teaching activities.
Éibar, a graduate who is a teacher and manager of his own farm, recalled, “All students shared experiences and culture, regardless of race or economic status. When we left school we were technically prepared to work the land better.”
In Venezuela, 34% of youth are not in school due to conditions of poverty. Venezuela is also currently suffering from a serious educational crisis where many teachers are not working and schools are only open two to three days a week. Salesians have been in Barinas for more than 80 years and have provided a quality education to thousands of youth.
A Salesian explained, “Education is fundamental. At the Salesian Agronomic Technical School students are in an atmosphere of trust and great respect. Teachers are also supported. They receive their salary as well as food and transportation.”
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Sources:
ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)
Salesian Missions – Venezuela
UNHCR – Venezuela situation
*Any goods, services or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.
