Author: Doris

MAZZARELLO SKILLS TRAINING CENTRE: STITCH AND SUSTAIN

By Sr. Godelieve Ruvugo Kayobera Mazzarello Skills Training Centre has obtained the TEVETA Fund to train 40 students in Tailoring. Mazzarello Skills Training Centre Administrator Sr. Godelieve Ruvugo Kayobera says in accordance with the 8th National Development Plan and17 Sustainable Development Goals, TEVETA has committed itself to reach out to as many students as possible in skills training and developing, which contributes to the development of Zambian citizens. She adds that the funds help students to overcome the challenges of paying school fees and buying sewing materials. Sr. Godelieve explains that the skill training Centre was established in response to the problems of poverty and lack of education of the young girls in Mansa. In light of the problems of poverty and lack of education, the Salesian Sisters of Don Bosco opened Mazzarello Skills Training Centre in 2005, in order to empower with skills all those who needed to be trained so that they could become self-reliant and provide for the needs of their families. Sr. Godelieve  She adds that reaching out to the poor and abandoned young girls is in according with their charism of education and evangelization of young people, especially those who are poor and abandoned. The Salesian Sisters became aware of the number of girls and women who needed a space for training because they dropped out from schools after they failed to pass Grade 7 or Grade 9 exams. Some of them who are married or single mothers bring their children to Don Bosco community school expressed their need of going back to school and finding means to raise up their children. Sr. Godelieve She says for the past years, Mazzarello Skills Training Centre has offered skills of sewing, typing, cooking even carpentry, for short term and long term. She adds that the mission of the institution is based on the awareness that “Education is the key to success. Mazzarello Skills Training Centre is committed to empowering the students with skills in fashion design and textile technology so that they overcome poverty and gender inequalities as well as participate to the development of the country through income generating activities. We are certain that our students once empowered with skills, vested as good Christians and honest citizens they will be able to promote activities for sustainable development. Sr. Godelieve The Salesian Sisters of Don Bosco officially called Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA) came to Zambia in 1984.  They have established their presence in Lusaka, Mazabuka, Mansa, Luwingu and Kasama.

FIRST AND FINAL PROFESSION

By Sr. Abigail Mwaka The Handmaids of the Blessed Virgin Mary of the Archdiocese of Lusaka recently celebrated a significant event. Two devoted Religious women, Novice Mutambwa Adorable Senti and Sr. Agness Bwalya Zulu, expressed their lifelong commitment to the service of humanity, particularly women and children, by making their first and perpetual vows respectively. The ceremony was held at Mary Immaculate parish in Lusaka and mass was presided over by the Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Lusaka Fr. Andrew Simpasa SJ. The inspiring homily was delivered by Fr. Gilbert Banda SJ who used the occasion to remind the congregants about the importance of listening and reasoning before reacting to any situation. Fr. Banda drew lessons from the life of Peter, a disciple of Jesus Christ, who was known for his impulsive responses to his master Jesus. He further encouraged the congregants to channel any destructive energy into love, following in the footsteps of St. Paul who is known for his persecution of God’s people and his initial rejection of God and later transformed that same energy into spreading the word of God and showing love to His people. Meanwhile, in the same week leading up to the profession day, the Congregation of the Handmaids of the Blessed Virgin Mary received 5 Novices and 10 Postulants on 27th July 2024. Behold the Handmaid of the Lord Luke1:26-38.

The Inspiring Story of Ethane Musonda at Dagama Special School

By Sr. Aretha Ngoma External forces may hinder us, but staying focused on our dreams is key. Dagama Special School transforms dreams of physically challenged pupils into a reality. This is a story of an 8 year old boy Ethane Musonda from Kawama compound in Kitwe who was born with a condition called Arthrogryposis which entails congenital deformity and less development to some limbs. In his case the arms were not developed. Ethane’s mother, Ethel Musonda, had lost hope of her child ever going to school because of his condition. I thought my child would never go to school because I thought no school would accept him because of his undeveloped arms. Ethel. But her hope was renewed when one of the sympathizers advised her to take Ethane to Dagama special school in Luanshya. After one of the sympathizers told me about the school, I visited the school and enquired if my child could be enrolled. They said yes and that’s how my child started school at Dagama. Ethel Meanwhile, Ethane says with him being at Dagama special school, he can now achieve his dreams. Despite his limitations with his hands, Ethane is now able to write and play like any other child. Indeed, disability is not inability.

MALAIKA: HOPE FOR A SICKLE CELL CHILD

Marriage, a sacred union instituted by God for procreation, often brings the joy of parenthood. Yet, families in Malaika Village and beyond, face the harsh reality when their newborns are diagnosed with severe health conditions like sickle cell anemia. Sadly, many are unaware of their child’s condition until medical aid is sought. Follow the heartwarming journey of hope for children with sickle cell anemia in Malaika Village.