By THA SC

Chonburi, Thailand, 7 December 2018 -- Under the initiative of the Salesian Commission for Education, the Salesian Province of Thailand has organised the Eighth Salesian Scout Jamboree, held at the Vajiravudh International Scout Camp, Chonburi, Thailand from 3-7 December 2018. The Salesian Scout Jamboree is actually held every three years, and this year it was co-hosted by Saint Dominic School and Don Bosco Technological College Bangkok. There were around 1450 scouts who attended from different parts of the country where the five Salesian schools are located. Many teachers, staff, and volunteers made up the number of around 302 people who facilitated the camp and each in their own way took care of the scouts, both boys and girls. The opening ceremony was celebrated in the evening of Tuesday 4 December 2018, led by Fr John Bosco Dheparat Pitisant SDB, the Salesian Provincial of Thailand – Cambodia- Laos.

Scout activities can be recognised as one of the most significant factors in promoting every dimension of human life (physical, spiritual, intellectual, emotional, and social). This recognition also leads to the appreciation of integrating moral and ethical values within education. The Salesian Scout Jamboree therefore, is certainly the place where our young people can learn from skill challenges, and are able to sincerely express themselves and share their talents in the cheerful spirit of Don Bosco.

The theme of this year’s Scout Jamboree was “Let’s walk together with Don Bosco,” which indicated their desire to encounter the values of Don Bosco’s life through scout activities. Apart from the insights of the Don Bosco activities, there were also opportunities for them to appreciate the beauty of the local natural environment and to learn the value of caring for the planet.

The last night of the camp, Wednesday 6 December 2018, was celebrated by the highly anticipated ‘campfire night.’ This was a fabulous time for the scouts to share their personalities and joy. Each school performed an item on the night which reflected the local culture, customs, lifestyles and identity of their area in Thailand. The evening was a beautiful sign of “unity in diversity,” and a fitting closing ceremony for the camp.

We pray that all the young people who participated in this gathering are able to remember the skills and values learnt during their time together, and to utilise them to build up their communities back home. May the spirit of Don Bosco continue to inspire all the participants, that they, like Don Bosco, may guide and accompany others with joy and optimism.

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