(ANS – Honiara) – The Salesian community of Henderson, near the city of Honiara, began 2012 focusing on formation: of the volunteers, of the staff and students as well. There were various events during January.

In preparation for the start of lessons in the new year, “Don Bosco Technical Institute” (DBTI) planned series of formation and information activities. The first group brought together were the young volunteers from Australia, who will working with the Salesians in the education of the young people during the next two years. Their comments express their enthusiasm: “I am very excited to be back in the Solomons, where I will spend the next two years at Don Bosco Technical Institute, Henderson.  I will be the English, Communications, Media and Drama teacher and look forward to assisting in the school productions” Penny Chilton says.

Peter Cheers will be giving courses in carpentry, joinery and building: “I have this amazing new opportunity to come to the Solomon Islands to share my experience, trade and life skills in the development of the young people at the Don Bosco Technical Institute. Although probably one of the more challenging roles I have adopted I know that it will also be one of the most rewarding.”

Ralph Kluge will be teaching mechanics: “I noticed that many more youth around the world needed support, especially those who lived in very isolated places... I am very excited to be here and to be able to be a part of this amazing country and look forward to many life changing experiences”.

Afterwards there was a training week for the staff between 23 and 27 January. The main focus was the analysis and sharing of the mission and the aims of the Institute, to ensure that the staff work together in the professional and human formation of the young people. With a mixture of songs, prayers, discussions and socialising the teachers created an atmosphere of trust in  each others and the common aims for the new year were established. Thanks to the talks by Fr Ambrose Pereira, the Rector, and other Salesians the key elements of the Preventive System and the message of the Strenna for 2012 were considered.

Finally the students were to have the benefit of their training day. On Saturday 29 January the new students and their parents were given a detailed introduction to the Institute, its courses and the principles of Salesian education. “There are many jobs and positions available in the Solomon Islands for those who are qualified, dedicated and hardworking” Fr Pereira told the youngsters to encourage them to give of their best in the selection exams.

Published 01/02/2012