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(ANS – Vientiane) – Since 2004, more than 1000 young people from all corners of Laos PDR (Peoples Democratic Republic) have received good preparation for their lives thanks to Don Bosco Youth Vocational Training Center in Vientiane. Due to the mutual cooperation and trust between the Lao Youth Union and the Salesian Foundation of Thailand, the unique presence of Don Bosco in this country has been developing very well. The THA province (Thailand-Cambodia-Laos) of the Salesians has generously funded the whole project.
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – November 2024 – The Don Bosco Osterbay Vocational Training Centre organised a Career Fair on 6 November, a large job fair that brought together students and professionals to explore interesting job proposals. It was an opportunity to network with industry leaders and learn about the latest advances in new technologies. After the official opening of the event, with a prayer by Fr Deogratias Massawe, the Director of the Centre, Fr Augustine Sellam spoke, greeting those present and inviting everyone to actively participate. The theme of the event was: "Unlock your future", which emphasisesempowerment, self-discovery and preparation for the professional world, through a smooth transition from training to rewarding careers. During the event the students presented five projects, entirely designed and developed by them. Tooku Garments Tanzania Ltd and Toyota Tanzania Ltd, who deal with the export of fabrics and mechanics of motor vehicles, presented the technologies they use. It was a very important day for young people, who were able to learn and discover their future in the world of technology.
Cayambe, Ecuador – November 2024 - Mass was celebrated at the St John Bosco Church in Cayambe, with the sending of seven young international volunteers who will carry out missions in Bolivia and Peru. This ceremony was part of a joint process with the National Meeting of Missionary Groups, an event that gave the volunteers the opportunity to share their personal testimony. During these meetings the young people explained how they fell in love with mission, stressing that mission is not only an act of giving, but also of receiving and learning. In addition, they encouraged other young people to listen and respond to the Lord's call. The celebration of the Eucharist was presided over by Fr Marcelo Farfán, Superior of the Salesian Province of Ecuador (ECU), who during his homily stressed three fundamental principles for missionaries: "obedience to God, generosity in what I am and in what I have and trust", stressing that "the more generous they are, the more they will receive; this is how God works." The Provincial also pointed out that these seven young people are part of the first joint groups that send international missionary volunteers, thus paving the way for future missions to other continents.
Los Teques, Venezuela – November 2024 - From 7 to 9 November, the San José de Los Teques High School hosted the first Salesian student meeting, an event that brought together 620 young people from colleges, schools and vocational training centres in different regions of the Salesian Province of Venezuela. The event stood out for its focus on sport as the centre of the experience, complemented by cultural evenings that celebrated the values and traditions of each participating region. The young people appreciated the activities that fostered fraternity and friendship, as well as time for prayer and the Eucharist, which allowed them to get in touch with God, with themselves and with their classmates. The event was organised by the Provincial Commission for Salesian Schools, with special thanks to the San José High School team, led by Salesian Brother José Liborio Escalano. It offered a safe and welcoming environment, transforming the place into a real home, school, oratory and parish. The meeting was also attended by all the school leaders and a group of Salesians who accompanied the young people in this sporting and spiritual experience. During these days the participants had experiences of gratitude, joy and celebration, including games, dances and recreational activities. The event was not only an opportunity to strengthen the Salesian community, but also for thanking God for the 130 years since the arrival of the Salesians in Venezuela, thus reaffirming their commitment to the education and integral development of young people.