The abilities are theirs; we help them develop them.

By THA SC

Pakkred, Thailand, 19 March 2024 -- The Skills Development Center for the Blind, Pakkred, Nonthaburi, held its graduation ceremony for the blind trainees from the Center on 13 March. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Mrs. Saowanee Suwannacheep, the President of the Foundation for the Blind of Thailand. She gave certificates to the 154 blind students who completed the various courses as follows: Basic Professional Massage Course - 17 persons; 80 hours Foot Massage for Health Course - 40 persons; 255 hours Thai Massage for Health Course - 37 persons; 330 hours as Aide to Traditional Thai Medicine Course - 38 hours; 800 hours in Traditional Thai Massage - 16 persons; and 1,500 hours in Thai Massage for Health - 6 persons.

The Center has been under the care of the Salesians of Don Bosco since 1978. At present, Fr Charles Velardo and Bro. Joseph Suwan Jutasonpakorn is supervising this Center together with 25 lay staff. The 36 visually impaired trainees undergo the three-year course. The Center offers a comprehensive curriculum that goes beyond teaching a trade. In addition to gaining an education and learning valuable job skills, the students participate in activities such as judo, goalball, bicycle riding, and competitive running, all of which foster physical development and self-confidence. Most graduates are able to find work immediately and continue to hone their skills for many years.

The Salesian contribution to the visually disabled in Thailand is a very real and important response to the disadvantaged youth in society.

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