About the Salesian Family

Salesian Family

Salesians are a group of Catholic men and women who have dedicated their lives to helping the young. Founded by St. John Bosco in the 19th century, the Salesian Family today numbers in the hundreds of thousands and is present in 128 nations worldwide.

The Anglophone West Africa (AFW) Province focuses on Youth Resource Development through education and evangelization, working across four countries to empower young people to reach their full potential.

The Salesian presence across Ghana, Nigeria, Liberia, and Sierra Leone represents a vibrant commitment to youth development through education and evangelization. Drawing on the charism of St. John Bosco, communities in these nations operate schools, training centers, and oratories that serve young people regardless of background. The focus remains on holistic formation, combining academic learning with spiritual growth and practical skills. From technical institutes to primary and secondary schools, Salesian institutions create safe spaces where disadvantaged youth can discover their potential. This network of educational and pastoral outreach forms the backbone of the province's mission, reaching into both urban centers and remote rural communities with equal dedication.

Vocational training stands at the heart of the Salesian approach to breaking cycles of poverty. Across the Anglophone West Africa Province, young people gain hands-on skills in fields such as solar technology, laboratory sciences, information technology, and various trades. These programs are designed not merely to teach techniques but to build confidence, discipline, and a sense of purpose. Graduates emerge ready to contribute meaningfully to their local economies and communities. The training centers also emphasize character formation, ensuring that technical competence is paired with ethical grounding. This comprehensive model of youth resource development empowers young people to become self-reliant and responsible leaders in their societies.

The spirit of Don Bosco's Preventive System guides every aspect of Salesian work in the province, fostering environments built on reason, religion, and kindness. Youth pastoral activities include retreats, volunteer service opportunities, missionary experiences, and community celebrations that strengthen faith and fellowship. The province also supports child protection initiatives and women's development programs, recognizing that strong families and communities are essential for healthy youth growth. Through parish ministries, oratory programs, and school chaplaincies, Salesians walk alongside young people during critical stages of their development. This ongoing accompaniment creates lasting relationships that extend well beyond formal education, forming a supportive Salesian family network across West Africa.