Rooted in the vision of Don Bosco, we continue the mission.
“Education is a matter of the heart.”
-St. John ‘Don’ Bosco
The Salesian Journey
1859
In 1859, St. John Bosco began his mission in Turin, Italy, working with young people who were poor, abandoned, and vulnerable.
Through Education, care, and deep commitment to love and dignity, he created a new way of supporting young people – one that focused on prevention, guidance, and opportunity rather than punishment.
1896-1950s
Growth of the Salesian Mission.
Following the beginnings in Italy, the Salesian mission rapidly expanded across Europe and beyond. By the early 20th century, Salesian communities were being established in new countries, responding to the needs of young people in different cultural and social contexts.
Schools, vocational training centers and youth programmes were developed to support education, skills training and personal development, especially for vulnerable and working class youth.
1960s-1980s
Expansion into Africa and New Frontiers.
During the 1960s and 1980s, the Salesian mission expanded significantly into Africa snd other developing regions. Responding to the growing social and educational needs, Salesian communities established schools, youth centers and vocational training programmes across the continent.
This period marked a deepening of the commitment to serve disadvantaged young peole, particularly in communities affected by poverty, unemployment and limited acess to education.
Today & Tommorrow
A living Mission for Young People.
Today, the Salesian mission continues across more than 130 countries, serving young people through education, skill development and care.
In Southern Africa, this mission is lived out through SPDO AFM, which supports programs that empower vulnerable children and youth opportunities for learning, growth and dignity in South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini.
Looking ahead, we remain committed to expanding access to quality education, vocational training and community development initiatives that respond to the evolving needs of young people.
The Salesians Planning and Development Office
About SPDO.
The Salesian planning and Development Office AFM (SPDO AFM) supports the mission of the Salesians of Don Bosco in Southern Africa by strengthening programmes that respond to the needs of vulnerable young people and communities.
We work across South Africa, Eswatini, and Lesotho, focusing on education, skilled development, community support, and care based interventions that create opportunities for young people to thrive.
Through collaboration with schools, vocational training centers and local communities, we help transform lives by building pathways to dignity, employment and hope.
What We Do
why Young People & Education Matter.
Across Southern Africa, many young people face barriers to education, skill development, and opportunities for growth. At SPDO, we believe that investing in young people is the most powerful wat to break cucles of poverty and create lasting changein communities.
“In every young person, a point of goodness is accessible. It is the primary duty of the educator to discover that sensitive chord of the heart to draw out the best in the young person.”
-Don Bosco.
Education Opens Doors
Education gives young people the foundation to build a better future and contribute meaningfully to society.
Skills Create Opportunity
Practical skills training leads to employment, entrepreneurship, and independence.
Empowered Youths Transform Communities
When young people are supported, entire communities benefit and grow stronger.
Join us. Make a difference.
Join Us, be part of the journey. Support, partner, volunteer, or simply help spread the word.
Together, we transform lives.
