(ANS - Rome) - The third meeting of the Vocational Training Group of the Salesians in Europe took place on 21-22 January. The Office for Schools and Professional Training Centres started this group in 2012 with two objectives: to revitalize, improve and expand the coordination of the Technical-Vocational Centres in Europe, through meeting and common reflection; and to deepen relationships between the Salesians of Europe and business companies.

On Thursday 21 January, thirty Provincial Delegates for Technical-Professional Centres met under the leadership of Fr Miguel Angel Garcia. The purpose was to find a way to enhance the Salesian experiences that best promotes the inclusion of students in the working world. They shared thirty good practices developed in the Provinces of Europe to combat youth unemployment. Among those present were Fr Joseph Aikarchalil, Executive Director of the National Office of "Don Bosco Tech Society" and Fr George Tharaniyil, from "Don Bosco Tech Africa".

On the Friday, the Vocational Training Group of the Salesians in Europe met, in the presence of the Rector Major, with some of the leading European companies, who are partners of the Salesian Vocational Training Centres. The theme for the day was: "Salesian Vocational training and business companies: a model relationship in the fight against youth unemployment in Europe."

For many years the Salesian Centres have had a network of collaboration with leading companies in the area, to allow for a real exchange between school and work. The theme proposed, on youth unemployment, is one that is now at the centre of innumerable social and educational debates, and for the Salesians it has raised a question on which they continue to reflect: is it possible for almost an entire generation of young people to feel excluded from the society to which they belong?                 

The days were an opportunity to further strengthen relations with many European companies willing to collaborate with the Salesian Centres. The meeting highlighted the employment prospects for students and refocussed attention on the need to offer students formation and training that are fully aligned with the needs of business and society.

Published 25/1/2015