NEWS PHOTOS
New Delhi, India – March 2025 – Many young Indians, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, lack access to quiet study spaces, updated learning materials, stable internet connections, professional guidance, and financial support to focus on their goals or enroll in costly coaching centers. To address this issue, several Salesian institutions have established dedicated study centers to support students preparing for government job exams and higher education entrance tests, benefiting approximately 500 young people. This initiative is backed by Don Bosco Yuvakendra in Najafgarh, Delhi, Don Bosco Youth Educational Services (DBYES) in Bariatu, Ranchi, and supported by Don Bosco Job Placement Network. The Najafgarh center was inaugurated recently in the presence of Fr. Vijay Soy, Vice Provincial of INN, aiming to provide a structured learning environment for exam preparation. Meanwhile, the Ranchi center was blessed by Fr. Shilanand Kerketta, Provincial Delegate for Youth Ministry, in the presence of young students and community members. Both centers will also offer career guidance and job placement assistance through Don Bosco Job Placement Network, ensuring access to essential resources such as books, internet access, and tutoring to help students maintain a steady preparation for their future careers.
Crucita, Ecuador – March 2025 – The service of leadership within the Salesian Cooperators Association is not merely an organizational duty but a true apostolate that fosters communion, spiritual life, and commitment to the Salesian mission. This guiding spirit shaped the 19th National Formative-Elective Congress, held from March 14 to 16 in Crucita, Manabí. The event was a space for synodality and shared discernment, leading to the election of the new Provincial Council of Salesian Cooperators of Ecuador.
Local council members from across Ecuador participated, sharing a fraternal and Salesian experience. Also present were SSCC Provincial Delegates Fr. Iván Segarra, SDB, and Sr. Judith Mocha, FMA, as well as delegates from various centers, Sr. Jaqueline Peláez (Provincial Economer of the FMA), Deliana Almendras (SSCC World Councilor), and Willy Rojas (Formation Councilor for the Pacific-Caribbean Region). They contributed to the formation, fellowship, and accompaniment of this important event.
The SSCC Provincial Council for the 2025–2028 term was elected as follows:
Verónica Mariño – Provincial Coordinator Rubén Palacios – Formation Counselor Jéssica Sandoval – Council Member Galo Valverde – Secretary Counselor Cristina Izquierdo – Communications Counselor Robinson Romero – Youth and Vocational Ministry Counselor
With this new team, a period of renewal and challenges begins, always strengthened by the support of the Salesian Family, trust in the Holy Spirit, and the guidance of Mary Help of Christians. United in their missionary vocation, the Salesian Cooperators continue to walk alongside young people with hope and dedication.
Kalimpong, India – March 2025 – Don Bosco Vocational Training Center in Kalimpong, Northern Bengal, part of the India-Kolkata Salesian Province, has claimed the championship title at the 7th Auto Fest, held at Don Bosco Technical School in Park Circus from March 17 to 19. Salesian Br. Roshan Ekka, Prinicipal of Don Bosco Kalimpong, highlighted how this prestigious event provided 16 institutions with the opportunity to showcase their students’ talents in the automotive sector. Excelling in various competitions, the Salesian institution secured first place, demonstrating outstanding technical skills, teamwork, and excellence. Founded in 2007, the Kalimpong Vocational Training Center offers courses in automobile maintenance, teacher training, and office management.
Belo Horizonte, Brazil – March 2025 – On March 16, the National Council of Salesian Alumni held its annual in-person meeting in Belo Horizonte (MG). The meeting was attended by the council board members and six young alumni (JEX) from Minas Gerais, São Paulo, and Bahia.
The gathering included moments of formation, planning, and integration among participants. One of the key sessions was a conference led by Fr. Rafael Galvão Barbosa, a Salesian from the São Paulo Province, on “The Art of Accompaniment: Lessons from Don Bosco’s Masters for Today’s Youth Mentors.” The talk emphasized the importance of guiding and mentoring young people within the movement.
The JEX members led the teams in implementing the challenges proposed during the meeting. Participants created a one-minute video for social media, encouraging alumni to engage in the movement. They also developed a four-phase action plan to strengthen young alumni involvement in the Federation.
Beyond the internal activities, the participants enjoyed a cultural tour of Belo Horizonte. The gathering concluded with the celebration of the Holy Mass.