Someone once wrote that the Congo "is living under the curse of its natural wealth." And again: "it is a country cursed by its riches." To name but a few of these riches: "unlimited water from the second longest river in the world, a mild climate, rich and fertile land with an abundance of copper, gold, diamonds, cobalt, uranium, coltan and oil - commodities that should make it one of the richest countries in the world."
The Salesians in Uvira, in South Kivu province, are working with many children and young people who are innocent victims of the violation of their rights. Many of them have never had the opportunity to go to school and are therefore particularly vulnerable. There are many children and vulnerable young people: former child soldiers, street children, children accused of witchcraft, abused women and single mothers. They are young people who do not know their rights and do not have a future.
The Salesians know that education is the best instrument to bring about a more just, humane and developed society. For this reason they have launched a three-year course of remedial education and academic upgrading, accompanied by training to learn a trade.
This project is a resource for the future. It promotes the education of 30 children and 40 young people. It is an extensive project, which will include school transport, the purchase of desks, provision of school supplies for teachers and students, the salaries for teachers, production of tools, and the organization of recreational, sports and cultural activities. It is a project that could become a symbol of solidarity.
Source: Misiones Salesianas
