Córdoba, Argentina - May 2024 - The Youth Pastoral Team of the Salesian Province of North Argentina (ARN) met at the Provincial House to update the Salesian Provincial Pastoral Educational Project (PEPSI). The program included training provided by the Provincial Planning and Development Office, which used the Theory of Change to guide the PEPSI update. Work continues to provide meaningful support for young people in our Salesian homes.

Tunis, Tunisia - May 2024 - Fr Alain Beylot, Rector of the Salesian Presence in Kénitra, Morocco, and a number of teachers from the Primary School and College stayed in Tunis from 28th April to 3rd May for an educational exchange with Salesian schools in Tunis. The theme was: "The Preventive System at the Heart of teaching in Salesian schools in the Maghreb". Sub-themes included the teaching of languages (Arabic, French, English) and sciences (mathematics, life and earth sciences, etc.) and education in respect and brotherhood. Visits to Salesian schools and tourist sites enriched the visitors' stay.

Kigali, Rwanda - May 2024 - The Salesians of Rwanda through the "Job Service Office" (JSO) and financial support of "Don Bosco Tech Africa", recently convened a press conference to promote the enrolment of young people in vocational & technical training programmes in the Salesian Vocational Training Centres (VET) upskilled to modern technologies in the world of work. Fr Cesar Habanabakize, Delegate for Youth Pastoral Care of the Africa Great Lakes Vice Province (AGL), recounted the history of vocational education in the Salesian world in the vision of Don Bosco, emphasizing the need to equip young people with practical skills that will make them competitive in the evolving job market. Fr Turabanye Jean Pierre, Director of the "Don Bosco Gatenga TSS", elaborated on the current state of VETs in Rwanda and on the trades available to students. During the press conference, Dominique Uwarugira, coordinator of the "P-JSO", stressed the importance of strengthening Salesian VETs through Employment Service Offices to facilitate the transition of students from training to employment. Ms Uzamureba Clementine, in charge of gender issues, focused on promoting gender inclusion in VET programmes to ensure equal opportunities for males and females. Mr. Cyiza Vedaste from the Rwanda VET Council shared valuable information on the current status and future prospects of VET education in the country. Journalists had the opportunity to interact with the speakers, asking questions about the challenges and exploring possible solutions.

Lubumbashi, D.R. of Congo - May 2024 - On May 1st, the "City of Youth" Salesian House in the Central African Province (AFC) warmly welcomed over 7,000 youngsters for the conclusion of the 49th edition of the "Salesian Games" spanning 4 weekends in April. It saw the participation of 30 schools, 16 parishes, and 12 oratories, totaling 194 teams. Youngsters from various Salesian institutions, of Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, public schools, and diocesan parishes, engaged in various disciplines such as football, basketball, baseball, volleyball, handball, acrobatics, Judo, Karate, Boxing, dancing, cheerleading, and modeling (for the women's category only). The series held in April, culminated in semi-finals on April 30th, coinciding with National Education Day in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), followed by thrilling finals held on May 1st. Fr. Guillermo Basañes, Provincial of AFC, and the Provincial of FMAs - Sr. Clarisse Ngoy, graced the event with their presence. Fr. Paulin Longwa (SYM) and Fr. Jonas Yav (delegate – Youth Ministry), collaborated with Fr. Severin Mbwita, young Salesians & FMAs in formation, besides numerous lay collaborators to organize the event.

Shillong, India – May 2024 – Under heavy rain, St. Joseph Parish Church in Laitkor, which had recently undergone extensive renovation, was blessed on Sunday, 5 May. The ceremony was presided over by Bishop Ferdinand Dkhar, Bishop of Jowai, accompanied by a multitude of members of the clergy and the faithful. Also present for the occasion were the parish priest, Fr Sylvester Synrem, the former Superior of the Salesian Province of Shillong, India, Fr Paul O. Lyngkot and the Provincial Economer, Fr James Thyrniang. The latter were given the task of cutting the ribbon, which was followed by the solemn blessing by Bishop Dkhar. The day finally ended with a lively cultural programme, which showcased the rich diversity and talents of the parish community.

Kinshasa, D.R. Congo - May 2024 - The "Mary Help of Christians" Vice Province of Africa Congo Congo (ACC) inaugurated its 3rd Provincial Chapter on May 2nd at the "Théophile Verbist" Centre in Mbudi. Following a ceremony invoking the Holy Spirit led by Fr. Titus Mwamba, the Moderator of the Chapter, Fr. Aurélien Mukangwa, the Superior and President of the Chapter of the ACC Vice Province, delivered the opening address. Subsequently, the secretary of the ACC Vice Province read out congratulatory messages from Fr. Alphonse Owoudou, Councillor for the Africa-Madagascar Region; Fr. Guillermo Basañes, Provincial of AFC; Fr. Manolo Jímenez, the former Superior of ACC, as well as from various groups of the Salesian Family, and finally, from the youth of the SYM.