Located in Tonj, Warrap State of South Sudan, Don Bosco Mission has been a beacon of hope amid significant socio-economic challenges. Established and led by Salesian missionaries, the mission operates primary and secondary schools, vibrant oratories, youth centers, a leprosy clinic, and the John Lee Memorial Hospital—adding maternity and surgical wards—serving both the town and surrounding rural areas. In times of crisis, such as conflict or health emergencies, the mission has reached thousands of internally displaced families, offering essential services—food, medicine, shelter, water, sanitation, and psychosocial care. The centre also runs influential programs: a renowned youth brass band started by Fr. John Lee, agricultural partnerships, and regular sports tournaments including football, basketball, and volleyball during major celebrations.
Volunteers at Tonj immerse themselves in an inspiring Salesian family, supporting in diverse roles ranging from medical and clinic assistance, outreach to leprosy-affected families, and health education to tutoring in schools, youth ministry, vocational workshops, and community rebuilding projects. They live alongside Brothers, Sisters, and local staff—sharing daily meals, prayer, and communal life—gaining firsthand experience of cross-cultural exchange, resilience amid adversity, and the transformative power of accompaniment. Ideal for those passionate about healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and humanitarian work, this placement offers a profound opportunity to impact lives meaningfully while growing spiritually and personally.
The mission started from 2008 with a single KG classes and a woman promotion centre. Then it grown every year with the number of pupils and classes. We just completed construction of a High school which can accommodate more than 400 students. We have a Primary with 8 classrooms and 400 students.
Tonj mission is an educational centre which educate the poor children, youth, girls and women to be good Christians and honest citizens. This is a home, a playground and a church for everyone. We give chance to everyone to be themselves, to promote and help them develop their skills to the full. We are the mediators to bring them close to God.
We are running different projects in order to help the women in the area and near by. They have a garden where they can plan vegetables and selling it daily. Support the farmers with groundnut seeds for cultivating. Support the parents to pay the school fees for their children by do the cultivating.
At the schools as English teachers for Primary and High school. At the Oratory to assist the oratorians . Can be catechists to prepare students for the sacraments. Can serve in the school as a pseud-school nurse, as there are many students who get sick with malaria, seasonal flu, fever, falls/scrapes, etc.
Teaching English Teaching Music Catechism Basic first aid
Teacher training degree/ certificate
Working in the school. Playing different music instruments Catechism
The lay missioners will work in Primary and High schools as English teachers.
The lay missioners will work in Primary and High schools as English teachers.
Attend daily Eucharist Youth ministry in the parish Assistant at the oratory Catechist for different courses in preparation for them to receive the sacraments.
The weather is hot and humid. Easy to get Malaria, Typhoid.
Live with Religious
Room
Daily Eucharist
Bathroom
Launder
Washing clothes by hand.
Access to ATM
Rice, potatoes, pasta, … Beef, chicken (some times) Vegetables (every day).
A small hospital run by the Missionaries sisters of Mary Help of Christian.