by Fr Ajay D'Monte for BISMumbai

Carrying on with the goal of empowering youngsters and guiding them towards having a bright future ahead of themselves, the Salesian communities and youth of Ahmednagar along with the Salesians of Don Bosco Waluj celebrated the inauguration of Don Bosco Avsar Job Placement Centre on November 24, 2024. The Don Bosco Avsar Job Placement Centre aims to bridge the gap between unemployment and opportunity, addressing a critical need in the region.

Fr Vishwas Pereira and Br Vincent Nigrel led the official blessing and unveiling of the Centre, accompanied by the active participation of youth from the parishes. Their presence underscored the profound importance of this facility for the younger generation, whose potential and aspirations lie at the heart of this initiative.

In his keynote address, Fr George D’Abreo articulated the mission and vision of Don Bosco Avsar. He emphasized its pivotal role in addressing the mounting challenges of unemployment among both skilled and unskilled youth in Ahmednagar and nearby districts in Maharashtra. Fr D’Abreo expressed heartfelt optimism that the Centre would become a beacon of hope, fostering empowerment and economic independence through skill development, placement opportunities, and targeted networking.

"Don Bosco Avsar will not merely serve as a facility but as a bridge—a means to connect job-seeking youth with employers," Fr D’Abrao remarked. "It will serve as a hub for job fairs, training workshops, and career guidance, equipping the youth to thrive in an increasingly competitive job market."

The event was an embodiment of unity and shared purpose. All the priests from Ahmednagar, along with the faithful and youth from the three contributing parishes, came together to celebrate this momentous occasion. Their collective presence signified the importance of community-driven initiatives in transforming lives and creating opportunities for growth.

A particularly memorable moment during the event was the recognition of Br Vincent Nigrel, who is celebrating his Golden Jubilee of religious profession this year. His involvement in inaugurating the Centre added a deeply personal and meaningful dimension to the event. The congregation's heartfelt acknowledgment of his lifelong dedication further enhanced the day’s significance.

Through the Don Bosco Avsar Job Placement Centre, the Salesians aim to offer tailored training programs, placement support and job fairs that would provide the youth with the tools they need to succeed. Looking ahead, Don Bosco Avsar envisions creating a ripple effect of positive change. By fostering economic independence, the Centre will contribute to the growth and well-being of the entire community. Its mission is not merely to place individuals in jobs but to empower them with the skills and confidence needed to build sustainable and fulfilling careers.