Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Port Moresby (Fides Service) - Catholic schools are a valuable resource for the country. As places of great professional competence, didactic ability and morality they are fundamental for the formation of the young generations in Papua New Guinea. With this motivation British High Commissioner in Papua New Guinea David Gordon Macleod presented an award for prestigious service of education to Don Bosco Technological Institute renowned. The High Commissioner handed a cheque for about 2,200 dollars to Salesian Fr. Roger Miranda, director of the Institute to support the projects of the large complex.
Italian Salesian missionary in Papua New Guinea Fr Valeriano Barbero and Salesian coadjutor Mr. Jesus Garcia bursar of Don Bosco Technological Institute were present at the ceremony. The school staff were congratulated by civil authorities and general public and school children present.
Don Bosco Technological Institute in Port Moresby is a pilot experience in the field of secondary technical training supported by many benefactors local and foreign. The British High Commission, which handles diplomatic relations between the UK and Papua New Guinea and promotes trade and investment opportunities, also supports professional training of young people in view of the country’s development and progress.
Papua New Guinea has trouble with unemployed violent youth. The Salesians, experts in youth education and training, recently marked the 25th anniversary of the arrival of the first Don Bosco priests in Papua New Guinea. Salesian oratories, schools and technical training centres save many young people from a life squandered on the streets, in drug abuse or organised crime.
The population of Papua New Guinea, about 5 million, is 97% Christian (Protestant 58%, Catholic 33% Anglican 5% and 3% traditional beliefs, and70% of all the schools in the country are church run. (Agenzia Fides 23/03/2006 Righe: 28 Parole: 287)
