In Rome, Italy, the President of the Republic, Daniel Chapo, highlighted the importance of collaboration between the Mozambican state and religious organizations, recognizing their fundamental role in promoting solidarity, social inclusion and human development..

The Head of State was speaking on Sunday (27), during an audience on the sidelines of Pope Francis' funeral ceremonies, with the Reverend Father Ezio Lorenzo Bono, a figure recognized for his outstanding contribution to the educational and social development of Inhambane province.

The meeting, marked by an atmosphere of cordiality and mutual recognition, served as an opportunity for the President to salute the work carried out by Father Ezio over decades of mission in Mozambique, with special emphasis on his time at the Holy Family Catholic Mission.

During the audience, Chapo praised the cleric's innovative vision and spirit of dedication, which were considered decisive for the creation and implementation of the Universidade Sagrada Família - a pioneering initiative that, at the time, revolutionized access to higher education in Inhambane.

The Universidade Sagrada Família, the fruit of Father Ezio's dedication, was later integrated into the Universidade Save (UNISAVE), becoming the university extension of the city of Maxixe, maintaining to this day the spirit of academic excellence and the promotion of knowledge that guided its foundation.

The President of the Republic took the opportunity to reiterate the government's commitment to valuing and supporting initiatives that promote knowledge, the training of qualified staff and the strengthening of local communities.

"We recognize and value the role of religious institutions and figures like Father Ezio in the process of national development, especially in the education sector, which is the basis for Mozambique's sustainable progress," said Chapo.

For his part, Father Ezio Lorenzo Bono expressed his deep gratitude for the recognition and reiterated his love for Mozambique, a land where, according to him, he has found a second home. Bono also reaffirmed his willingness to continue collaborating in social and educational projects aimed at improving the quality of life of Mozambicans, particularly young people.

(Photo DR)