austraLasia #1897
Pakistan: A
light in the shadows…
LAHORE: 7th July 2007 -- Unfortunately
Pakistan hits headlines these days for a new case of religious
extremism: the fight that a 3,000 strong force of radical students is
putting up against the Army Rangers and City Police Force in the very
heart of the capital, Islamabad. The situation becomes worrisome
as thousands of other students mobilize from other cities to
run in support of those fighting the legitimate Government… and in
the middle of this chaos lots of good news for the Don Bosco Family...
Last
June 22nd a team of 4 Government Inspectors visited Don Bosco Technical
and Youth Centre, Lahore, to
renew or otherwise the Technical Centre's registration under the
Punjab Board of Technical Education. The Inspection was tough initially
but soon a friendly, almost family-like atmosphere took over. The
Inspection finalized by letting the Centre's administration read the
“confidential” Report that
was to be passed to the competent authorities, approving the extension
of the Centre's affiliation. It was a moment of joy for all those who
have made
the journey from its beginning, 7 years ago, to this moment when even
Permament Registration in 1 year's time now looks almost certain.
Thanks to the pioneer and inspiration, Fr. Hans
Dopheide; to the
new confreres,
Fr. Monix and Fr. Jude, who travelled the whole night
from the North
of the country, where they studied the local language for a few months,
to support the team with their expertise and technical knowledge;
thanks to the instructors who work hard every day to offer best
possible training to the Centre's students, thanks to all those who
continue to
support DBTC financially and spiritually as well.
After 3 years of intensive work the Master Plan was
finally approved to grant Basic Education in Don Bosco to all drop-outs
who will arrive. It is a 3 years ambitious plan that will see 4
new huge workshops built, latest educational equipment imported from
Germany and Italy, upgrade of the staff, transformation of existing
shops in the Basic Education facility… A real dream for Pakistani
youth.
On 9 June last, 54 young technicians from very
poor families
received their Certificates after 2 years of intensive training.
It is
this kind of presence that offers much hope amongst violence.
_________________
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