This initiative responds to an urgent need for modern and accessible educational infrastructure for children and youth living in vulnerable conditions. It is fully aligned with the Salesians of Don Bosco’s mission in eastern D.R. Congo: to provide educational, human, and spiritual support to disadvantaged young people.
“The construction of this school building would not have been possible without the decisive financial support of the Italian association Costruisci un Sorriso (Build a Smile),” said Fr. Mumba Kati. “For years, this international solidarity organization has been committed to improving the lives of young people in Goma. Once again, they have shown love and compassion for Congolese youth.”
Thanks to their ongoing support, the benefactors of Costruisci un Sorriso (Let’s Build a Smile!) are not only funding the new secondary school building but also supporting the entire Boscolac educational complex, including staff salaries and the sustainability of both educational and social programs.
The ceremony brought together students, parents, teachers, and Salesian community members in a moment of deep gratitude and emotion. Everyone expressed heartfelt thanks to Costruisci un Sorriso, a loyal partner and a driving force behind local development.
In his speech, Fr. Mumba Kati emphasized that this building is not just bricks and cement, but a reflection of our deep commitment to the future of our youth. Thanks to Costruisci un Sorriso, we can all say we are builders of smiles.
This new structure adds to the many other projects that the Italian association supports in Boscolac and the surrounding region:
- a modern and well-equipped primary school
- a vocational training center offering courses in sewing, hairdressing, beauty, masonry, and computing
- a health center and school infirmary, ensuring the well-being of students and support for educational and administrative staff.
The laying of this first stone is not merely symbolic: it marks the beginning of a new era for education in the outskirts of Goma. It is a promise of hope for hundreds of young people dreaming of a better future — a promise made possible by the unwavering commitment of Costruisci un Sorriso.
Source: JAMBO VIJANA, AFC-EST Magazine
