Bro. Muller, you arrived in Rwanda after visiting Uganda. What are you looking at in Rwanda?
I came to Rwanda to personally follow the progress, including economic ones, of some projects. In this Province they are truly many and all focused on the development and growth of young people. It is important to understand how they are carried out, to know who takes care of them and to understand if the economic resources are invested correctly.
What was your impression, to know the young people of this country?
I can say that I'm very happy. I met the young people, first in Uganda and then in Rwanda, and we spoke openly. They were extremely sincere in telling me what they think is good and what, instead, could be improved, without however complaining. Furthermore, they said they were happy to have opportunities to continue their studies in Salesian schools and vocational training centers. The number of students in our centers is growing more and more and this is a sign that they feel good here and appreciate our projects.
Did you have the opportunity to visit the projects in Gatenga? What do you think about them?
I have to say I was familiar with this project, I had to do some studies on it and I was impressed, especially with regard to the field of agriculture. Vegetables and greens are grown, young people learn how to do it, without having to import them. In this way, they also learn a job, but that's not all. They learn values such as peace and trust, understand the importance of hard work, and are encouraged to do something positive for the environment as well.
Has the pandemic affected the Salesian missions from a financial point of view?
Unfortunately, due to Covid-19 many people are losing their jobs and there are more and more poor people. This can clearly have an economic impact on the Salesian missions in the next two or three years: those who regularly donated sums of money may no longer do so, because they may need that money for themselves and their families. In light of this, we will focus more on consolidating existing projects.
What is your message to the young people of the AGL Vice Province?
You have to believe in your own capacity and your intelligence. I also want to say this: use your time in Salesian houses and schools not only to learn, but also to build friendships and to think, together, for a better future.
