Students benefit from reliable transportation at school

(MissionNewswire) Bosco Carpentry School in Kazembe, Zambia, purchased a new car thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The school provides courses in carpentry and brick laying. The school has plans to expand to teach electrician skills and metal fabrication, transforming its facilities into a skills training center for 120 students.

A Salesian explained, “The car will be used by the carpentry school. Having reliable transportation is important for our school staff to be able to effectively do their jobs. We are grateful for the donor support from Salesian Missions.”

Many students will benefit from the school having reliable transportation. One of the students at the school is Sylvester. Just a few years ago he was living on the streets of Kabwe. He came to Don Bosco Makululu, a center for boys. Despite his complicated history and challenges with earlier education, Sylvester is in his second year at the carpentry school and progressing toward final exams in December.

Salesians in Zambia provide a range of social development programs and education to aid youth who are poor and at risk so they can have a healthy productive life. Early education helps youth gain a foundation to allow them to later advance to skills training for employment. Basic needs are met along the way ensuring youth focus on their education.

Poverty is widespread in Zambia with 64% of the total population living below the poverty line. For those living in rural areas, the poverty rate rises to 80%, according to UNICEF. Over the past three decades, incomes in Zambia have fallen steadily, and people do not have enough money to meet basic needs such as shelter, nutritious food and medical care.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Zambia

UNICEF – Zambia