Pakkret, Thailand - February 2024 - The President of the Centre for the Development of Skills for the Blind in Pakkred, Nonthaburi, Fr Charles Velardo, SDB, congratulated the four alumni of the Centre who graduated on 7 February 2024 with their master's degrees. All four are preparing to continue their studies in their respective field to obtain their doctorates as well. The Centre for the Development of Skills for the Blind has been run by the Salesians of Don Bosco since 1978, together with a staff of lay people, and in addition to education and job skills, it offers students various sports activities that foster physical development and self-esteem. Most graduates are able to find work immediately and continue to hone their skills for many years.

Mumbai, India – February 2024 - The Provincial of Mumbai Province, Fr Savio Silvera SDB, released the Manual for the First Holy Communion, authored by Fr Gilbert Choondal SDB, at the 27th Indian Catechetical Association Meet hosted at Don Bosco, Matunga on February 21. Amidst 45 Catechetical Scholars from India, Fr Savio presented a copy to Ms Lucy, a catechist actively involved in First Communion Catechesis in the Archdiocese of Bombay. Before the book launch, the author Fr Choondal introduced the book, emphasizing that it stemmed from his experience with first communion catechesis in the Parish, where the focus was primarily on teaching prayers. Recognizing the need for a comprehensive guide, he developed the book to assist catechists and parents in teaching effectively during the first communion catechesis. The Manual, in addition to the traditional first holy communion books, provides insight into the meaning of prayers, teaching children how to pray and meditate, suggesting activities and projects, conducting practical sessions on the sacraments, and offering content for sessions involving parents of the candidates. Fr Choondal described it as a “360-degree Plan for the First Holy Communion with a follow-up plan for Post-Communion Catechesis.” The book is available for purchase through Asian Trading Corporation.

Bidar, India - February 19, 2024 - In a significant step towards inmate rehabilitation, a professional training workshop for male prisoners was inaugurated at Bidar Central Jail on February 19, 2024. This collaborative initiative with the Carmel Seva Trust introduces electrical and plumbing courses for inmates through Don Bosco ITI. Presently, the prison houses approximately 120 inmates, with a notable majority being young individuals. The training is structured in batches of twenty students each, ensuring a focused and effective learning environment. Noteworthy is the cooperation and genuine concern exhibited by the jailer and jail superintendent toward the inmates. Their collaborative efforts underscore a shared commitment to the well-being and development of those within the prison walls. This innovative training program not only addresses the practical needs of the inmates but also reflects a forward-thinking approach to rehabilitation within Bidar Central Jail.

(ANS – Kigali) – Wednesday, 21 February 2024 was a special day for participants in the Team Visit to the Salesian Africa-Madagascar Region, still underway at Gatenga, in Kigali, Rwanda. The day began with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major of the Salesians, in which the assembly prayed for Fr Jésus Benoît Badji, Superior of the Province of North West Africa (AON), whose birthday was celebrated. After two intense and rich work sessions, the day was enlivened by the visit of Cardinal Antoine Kambanda, Archbishop of Kigali.

Salamanca, Spain - February 2024 - In an event that marked a significant moment for the Salesian community and for admirers of the life and work of St. John Bosco, the Aula Magna of the "Mary Help of Christians" institution in Salamanca became the setting for the presentation of the book "Don Bosco and His Dreams" by Fr. Eugenio Alburquerque, SDB. The launch of the book, which took place recently, aligns with the celebration of the bicentenary of Don Bosco's first prophetic dream, the 9-year Dream, which still guides the Salesian mission today. Fr Alburquerque, is a reference point in Salesian spirituality. With a degree in Dogmatic Theology and a doctorate to his credit, he is a key figure in the teaching of moral theology and the direction of important publications such as the magazine 'Misión Joven' and the Spanish Salesian Bulletin. His profound knowledge and passion for Salesianism are reflected in his almost 60 published books, ranging from ethics and moral theology to spirituality and family life, making him an undisputed expert on Saint Francis de Sales. The work 'Don Bosco and His Dreams' stands not only as a tribute to the founder of the Salesian Congregation, but also as a window into Don Bosco's soul, offering a selection of 14 dreams that outlined his vocation and mission. The presentation of the book was a moment of reflection on the importance of dreams in Don Bosco's life, highlighting how these divine visions helped him face challenges, inspired his missionary initiatives, and ultimately transmitted his spirit and spirituality to future generations.

(ANS – Lubumbashi) – During the period rom 3 to 13 February, Radio Don Bosco Lubumbashi, a Salesian radio station active in the south of the Democratic Republic of the Congo – which broadcasts only on the 103.10 MHz FM band – found itself in a situation of serious difficulty. In fact, during the recent rains in early February, its 2,000 kilowatt transmitter was severely damaged by lightning that unfortunately hit its facilities and destroyed the motherboard circuit. The failure was so severe that it had a considerable impact on the signal, making it impossible to transmit for several days.