Pakkred, Thailand – March 2024 - The Pakkred Skills Development Centre for the Blind, Nonthaburi, run by Salesians since 1978, held a degree-giving ceremony for 154 students. The ceremony, which took place on 13 March, was attended by Mrs. Saowanee Suwannacheep, president of the Foundation for the Blind of Thailand, who delivered the certificates to the students who completed the various courses offered by the Centre. Currently Fr Charles Velardo and Salesian Brother Joseph Suwan Jutasonpakorn are supervising this Centre together with 25 lay employees. The Centre offers a comprehensive curriculum that goes beyond teaching a trade. In addition to acquiring an education and learning valuable work skills, students participate in sports activities that promote physical development and self-confidence. Most graduates manage to find work immediately and continue to hone their skills for many years. The Salesian contribution to the visually impaired in Thailand is a very real and important response to disadvantaged young people in society.