Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
New Delhi (Fides) - Take education to children in villages where there are no schools and the illiteracy rate is very high: this is the objective of a project launched in the western Indian state of Goa by a community of Salesians in Konkan as part of celebrations to mark the centenary of the arrival of the first Sons of John Bosco in India. This ‘school on wheels’ programme, the first of its kind in Goa has the support and backing of Goa state government.
The ‘school on wheels’ consists of a bus fitted with a classroom and basic didactic equipment. Lessons range through all grades for children of five to fourteen years. The school bus, according to the Salesian news bulletin ANS travels from village to village. At every stop about 20 pupils attend a lesson of two hours. Children who take the whole course of lessons receive a government certificate which will allow them to enrol for higher education in secondary schools at some distance away.
The programme aims to guarantee every child the right to access to instruction. Numerous Catholic religious institutions in India are involved in all-round education which also teaches values. For the Church this is a way to contribute towards building a nation which is open, tolerant, peaceful, respectful of human rights of all citizens and of minorities. Catholic schools further social and cultural development and promote fundamental values.
Education and care of the marginalised peoples will be one of the themes for reflection when the Catholic Bishops of India meet for a general assembly next month in Bangalore (Karnataka state) 8 to 15 February. The chosen focus for 2006 highlights two areas of activity which distinguish the service offered by India’s Christians, Catholics in particular, to all citizens, Christians and non Christians. (PA) (Agenzia fides 30/1/2006 righe 23 parole 235)
