Don Bosco Gatenga sets to Mark 50 Years of Empowering Rwanda’s Youth

Don Bosco Gatenga: Preparations for the 50th Anniversary Celebration Are Progressing Well

The Don Bosco Gatenga Youth Centre, widely known for providing vocational and practical skills training to young people from different backgrounds, is currently preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary.

The management says the jubilee will be an opportunity to reflect on a journey that has transformed the lives of many and given hope to the future of Rwanda’s youth.

The Director of the Salesian Community in Gatenga, Father Gaspard Nteziryayo, explained that preparations for the celebration are at an advanced stage, with the event scheduled to take place on May 31, 2026.

The centre was founded in 1976 by three priests, one brother, and several young men who were joining the Salesian congregation.

Immediately after its establishment, the founders launched programs aimed at supporting youth through vocational training in carpentry, welding, construction, and electricity.

Father Nteziryayo said their initial goal was to equip young people with practical skills that would help them become self-reliant and create employment opportunities after completing their studies.

Over the years, the institution expanded its departments and introduced additional programs such as secretarial studies, tailoring, cooking, agriculture, and livestock farming.

Today, the institution has reached an impressive level of development. Its vocational school has gained strong recognition, with some students completing their studies there before continuing to university — something the administration considers a major sign of progress.

Beyond providing education, the centre has become a foundation for development for many people. Some graduates have created their own businesses, while others have secured quality employment in different sectors.

Father Nteziryayo also highlighted the contribution of one of the former leaders of the Don Bosco Gatenga, Carlos Teran (1995–2002), commonly known as Carlos, who became known for promoting youth talent development. He founded a well-known acrobatics school and also launched the “Orchestre IMENA” choir, which helped many young people develop their talents.

He further explained that many children were rescued from street life and supported through music and other talents that helped restore their confidence and hope for the future.

He said:
“When we see young people who had lost hope rise again because of the talents or skills they discovered here, we feel that our mission has been accomplished.”

The jubilee celebrations will begin with a thanksgiving Mass, followed by various sports activities, messages from Church and government leaders, and other entertainment activities planned for participants.

Father Gaspard Nteziryayo called upon former students, friends of the Salesians, and all Rwandans to join them in celebrating 50 years of a journey that has been a source of knowledge, hope, and development for many young people.