Within its first year of operation, the “Club AJAN Jeune pour le Changement” (AJAN Youth Club for Change) at the College of Alfajiri in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has demonstrated significant success in supporting and mentoring youth through various initiatives aligned with AJAN’s model of comprehensive development and accompaniment of young people. This was facilitated through leadership changes, with the new Jesuit regent, Kasong Albert, assuming the role of Coordinator for extracurricular activities at College Alfajiri in collaboration with other leaders of the school club. To strengthen the partnership with the AJAN secretariat, the new coordinator and AJAN had an online meeting on November 18th, 2025.

During this virtual briefing, Fr. Ismael, the Director of AJAN emphasized the organization’s mission and priorities regarding youth development. He stated that integral formation is essential for the personal growth of the youth and their contributions to their communities. The unique character of the AJAN school youth group or club is grounded in Ignatian pedagogical principles, the Jesuits Universal Preference, which includes accompanying the youth for a hope-filled future. This approach prioritizes youth education and demands attention to their integral formation for social change.

He emphasized prioritizing youth education, which is crucial. He stated, “As a school club, the holistic formation of the youth is essential to every society. Aside from the moral assistance from parents, focusing on education, working collaboratively with Jesuit companions, and school staff and teachers is essential to improve the Youth club.”

Furthermore, Fr. Matambura highlighted the need for the “Club AJAN jeunes pour le Changement” radio programs to actively encourage both school authorities and parents to invest in students’ integral formation and to provide moral support for the club. To ensure the youth club’s radio program sustainability, collaboration with the local Church leaders and community radio leaders is another potential avenue. Their involvement could facilitate the organization of youth formation programs and elevate the club’s profile through their esteemed support.

This meeting was a pivotal moment for improving the AJAN school youth club at Collège Alfajiri, with a focus on youth formation. It also aimed to shift the mindset of the AJAN secretariat and the new leadership toward innovative ways to contribute to society by developing morally sound agents of social change dedicated to positively impacting others’ lives.

By, Agi Peter Onah SJ.,

AJAN Liaison Officer.