July 2024 – Saint John of God

GRADUATION AND HANDOVER CEREMONY TO YOUTH WITH DISABILITIES IN T/A TSABANGO

As one way of promoting equal rights and inclusion for persons with disabilities, we provided vocational skills training to 40 youth with disabilities to empower them economically. The training focused on tailoring, which was their vocational choice. Thirty-seven youths graduated, comprising 11 males and 26 females, representing a 92.5% completion rate. Three individuals dropped out due to physical ill health and distance, comprising 2 males and 1 female. The beneficiaries who completed the training have been organized into six working groups, each allocated with start-up tools. This training was possible because of financial support from our partner Christian Blind Mission (CBM).

*The graduates with their Certificates during the graduation’s ceremony*

The graduation took place on July 4, 2024, at Ceyca Hall in the area of T/A Tsabango. Thirty-seven youths with disabilities and other vulnerable individuals received their certificates of attendance in tailoring and design. The certificates were presented by the SJOG Program Manager (Lilongwe Service) Dr. Mwawi Ng’oma and the Senior Chief Representative. About 90 people attended, including parents/guardians of the beneficiaries, Area Development Committee members, a Social Welfare representative, a Lilongwe District Disability Forum representative, a Ward Councillor representative, and the Senior Chief Representative. Start-up tools were also presented to the groups of beneficiaries, including 7 sewing machines, cotton fabric, polyester fabric, sewing threads, tape measures, machine oil, and sewing needles to support the initiation of tailoring shops in their various communities.

*SJOG Programs Manager (Lilongwe Service) Dr Mwawi Ng’oma giving a certificate to one of the graduating students.*

*Project Coordinator Mr Kauteka delivering a speech during the graduation ceremony*.

Brothers of Saint John of God and Inauguration at St. Augustine Community House in Lilongwe Area 43

**Above:** Archibishop George Tambala reading scripture during the Inauguration of St Augustine House.

On June 12, 2024, the St. Augustine Community House in Lilongwe held a special event to welcome four new brothers of Saint John of God. The celebration included heartfelt speeches, spiritual blessings, and the grand opening of the new community house. Entertainment during the inauguration ceremony was provided by a choir.

In addition the event was a great filled with deep respect and a strong sense of community.Brothers Louis Kuyokwa OH, Paul Mwale OH, Cornelius OH, and Thomas OH will now be living at the Saint Augustine Community House.

*Part of the audience during the inauguration of St Augustine House.*

**Above:** Provincial of Saint John of God Br. Donatus Forkan providing constitution to Prior Delegate of St Augustine Community House Br. Louis Kuyokwa

The celebration was attended by Archbishop George Tambala of Lilongwe Archdiocese and the Provincial of Saint John of God Hospitaller Services, Brother Donatus Forkan OH.