(ANS – Quito) – The Salesian Polytechnic University (UPS), together with the Salesian Social Network of America (RASS), has presented a Guide to Social-Emotional Development for Educators in Salesian Social Works. This publication is the result of a research process promoted by the Salesian Social Network of America (RASS), in collaboration with the Psychology team of the Salesian Polytechnic University – Ecuador and the Salesian Project Ecuador (PSE). The initiative aims to better understand the current realities of children and adolescents in vulnerable contexts and to strengthen comprehensive accompaniment practices.

This gathering marked a milestone in coordinated efforts among academia, Salesian Youth Ministry, and Salesian social works, demonstrating how knowledge generation can be placed at the service of educational and pastoral processes on the ground, in keeping with the Salesian mission and charism. The event was attended by representatives of the Ecuador Provincial Council, RASS, UPS authorities and faculty, and the CINAJ research group.

During the presentation, Fr. Juan Cárdenas, rector of UPS, explained that the guide is the outcome of the research project Youth, Violence, and the Culture of Peace: Participation and Social Skills of Young People in Vulnerable Contexts, carried out through a joint effort between UPS and the RASS office. He noted that the document is not merely a conceptual or theoretical study, but rather reflects the voices of participants in the Salesian Project Ecuador and other related initiatives. He also emphasized that the guide is rooted in the Salesian educational model, particularly from the perspective of amorevolezza, or loving-kindness. “We are remaining faithful to our commitment to place our educational model in dialogue with these new realities, these new approaches, and these emerging needs,” he said.

Fr. Rafael Bejarano, General Councilor for Youth Ministry, then addressed the gathering, highlighting the “sacrament of Salesian presence” as an experience of welcome that fosters relationships of trust between young people and the adults responsible for their care. This process, he explained, strengthens young people’s personalities through various strategies and institutions, promoting alliances between the young person and the educator, between the educator and the family, between the young person and the workplace, between Salesian institutions and international development cooperation, and between young people and society as a whole. The ultimate goal, he said, is to transform a culture marked by darkness and negative narratives into a culture of life and resurrection.

Claudia Portela, a member of the RASS management team, underscored the importance of creating synergies with institutions such as UPS in Ecuador and the Salesian Project Ecuador. She noted that the guide is a valuable resource for educators working in social programs, with the goal of making these environments safe spaces for children and adolescents. She added that, regardless of their location on the continent, the ability to read, adapt, and apply the guide in diverse contexts will help educators better understand reality, analyze it, reflect on it, and take concrete actions that contribute to the restoration of the rights of those they serve.

The program continued in the Cándido Rada Auditorium, where Fr. Rafael Bejarano reflected on the fundamental principles of the Oratory Criterion, inviting participants to renew their commitment to a pastoral approach that is close, welcoming, and meaningful for young people.

Cristian Calderón
UPS Communications

Source: Salesianos.org.ec