The Provincial Development Office (PDO) Director, Fr. Raphael Airoboman, SDB, recently visited St. Jude Science and Technical College, Tse-Mker, Benue State, where he witnessed firsthand the steady transformation within the Salesian mission.
The visit provided an opportunity to assess ongoing development projects, interact with members of the community, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the school, which currently serves about 1,300 students. Although the students were on holiday, the campus remained lively as children from neighbouring communities participated in the school’s annual summer camp.
Reflecting on his visit, Fr. Raphael described it as both joyful and inspiring.
His visit also highlighted the remarkable progress achieved in recent years through the generous support of donor partners.
When the Salesians first assumed responsibility for the school, the community faced significant challenges. Basic facilities such as toilets, clean water, electricity, and adequate hostel accommodation were either unavailable or insufficient, creating a difficult learning environment for both students and staff.
Today, that story is gradually changing.
With the support of Salesian Missions, New Rochelle, the school has benefited from the construction of modern toilet facilities, the provision of 100 bunk beds, and renovations to sections of the student hostels, significantly improving living conditions for students.
Through the support of Salesian Missions Madrid, a borehole has also been constructed, providing reliable access to clean water for the school and surrounding community.
Other ongoing and completed interventions include the construction of the community chapel, the partial completion of the school’s perimeter fence, the installation of a solar power system to provide reliable electricity, the provision of computers to strengthen learning, and scholarships awarded to deserving students.
Beyond the physical infrastructure, Fr. Raphael was encouraged by the positive atmosphere within the community. During his visit, he noted that the Salesians currently on holiday were well settled, with many expressing interest in continuing their philosophy studies at Tse-Mker should the opportunity arise.
Despite these encouraging developments, important needs remain. The school continues to require additional training equipment, improved infrastructure, expanded hostel facilities, and the completion of ongoing construction projects to provide an even better learning environment for its students.
For the Salesians of Don Bosco, investing in young people goes beyond constructing buildings. It means creating spaces where they can learn, grow in character, deepen their faith, and prepare for meaningful futures.
Fr. Raphael expressed profound gratitude to the benefactors whose generosity continues to make these developments possible.
“These achievements are visible signs of God’s providence working through the generosity of our partners and friends. We remain deeply grateful for their trust and continued support.”
As development continues at St. Jude Science and Technical College, Tse-Mker, the Province remains committed to providing quality technical education and holistic formation for young people, particularly those in underserved communities.
We thank all our benefactors and partners for walking this journey with us. Your generosity is helping to build not only classrooms and facilities, but also brighter futures for hundreds of young people. Together, we can continue to transform lives through education, faith, and opportunity.