A notable guest was Brother Cesare Bullo SDB, a veteran Italian missionary who has dedicated almost 50 years to serving in Ethiopia. His presence held special significance, as the Salesian Congregation prepares to launch its 50th-anniversary celebration of its arrival in Ethiopia. The Salesian presence in Ethiopia began in 1975, with the first community established in Makalle, comprising Fr. Patrick Morrin (Ireland), Br. Joseph Reza (USA), and Br. Cesare Bullo (Italy). This pioneering effort was dubbed the "New Frontier" by then Rector Major Don Luigi Ricceri recalling the 100th anniversary of the first missionary expedition to Patagonia by Don Bosco himself. This attention to the “New Frontier” was followed by the ‘Africa Project’ initiated by Don Egidio Vigano'.
The on-going jubilee celebration, which commenced two years ago, is themed "Gratitude for the past, Fortitude for the present, and Certitude for the future." This triennial celebration acknowledges the Salesian Congregation's remarkable journey, while embracing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The graduation ceremony serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of the students, faculty, and staff, who persevered through unimaginable hardship. The Salesian Community's commitment to education and empowerment has been a beacon of hope in the region. As a matter of fact, even during the hardest of times of war in the region, the four salesian communities of the Tigray region always stood with the people and for the people, offering the assistance and the aid that was much needed during that time. As the Salesian Congregation embarks on this milestone anniversary, it reaffirms its dedication to serving the people of Ethiopia, fostering education, skills development, and holistic growth.
