20 Years Serving Lao Youth with Dedication

20 Years Serving Lao Youth with Dedication

(ANS – Vientiane, Laos – November 12, 2024) – Since 2004, more than 1,000 young people from all corners of Laos Peoples Democratic Republic have received good preparation for their lives thanks to Don Bosco Youth Vocational Training Center in Vientiane. Due to the mutual cooperation and trust between the Lao Youth Union and the Salesian Foundation of Thailand, the unique presence of Don Bosco in this country has been developing very well. The Salesian Thai Province has generously funded the whole project.

On November 8-9, Fr. Joseph Phuoc, regional councilor for East Asia-Oceania, made his extraordinary visitation in Laos. He was welcomed by the Salesian community, staff, and students of Don Bosco Youth Vocational Training Center. He met with the staff, gave the “good morning talk” to the students, and gave a “good night talk” to the boarders. He gave words of encouragement to everyone. In addition, he also met with the Salesian sisters, who have opened a vocational training center for young women.

The Salesian work in Laos started on May 24, 2004, under the leadership of Fr. Tito Pedron and Sanya Boonprasert, a past pupil of Don Bosco Technological College in Bangkok. They started by repairing small vehicles. This activity was called Mitr Samphan. It was managed by 5 young Laotians who also were past pupils of Don Bosco in Bangkok. Later, this work was expanded and became the Don Bosco Vocational Training Center at its present location. The house was canonically erected on January 17, 2019.

At present, the Salesian community is led by Fr. Patrick Maccioni, the director, and includes 4 other confreres (3 priests and a brother). The Center has opened up to various skills, such as electrician, automotive repair, motorcycle repair, and welding. In this 1st school semester of 2024, there are 46 young men. Among these are 36 boarders, who include 5 Catholics.

Tthere is not yet any Lao Salesian of Don Bosco. Teachers, instructors, and former students dream about the first Lao Salesian member. They wholeheartedly commit themselves to follow the path of Don Bosco!

Thailand Province Social Communication Office