Udupi
Catholic Sabha Udupi Pradesh and the John D’Silva Foundation, Mumbai, honoured meritorious students and academic achievers during the Prathibha Puraskar programme held at Anugraha Pastoral Centre, Kakkunje, on Sunday.
Inaugurating the programme, Most Rev. Dr. Leslie Clifford D’Souza, Bishop of the Diocese of Udupi, advised students to never forget their native place and parents, regardless of the success they achieve through education and professional careers.
The Bishop said parents and teachers play a crucial role in shaping the educational journey of children. He encouraged students from rural areas to make full use of available opportunities and work towards academic excellence. In today’s competitive environment, he said, achieving good ranks is important for pursuing higher education and building successful careers.
Dr. Leslie Clifford D’Souza emphasised that one’s hometown represents the roots of identity and that successful individuals have a responsibility to contribute to the development of their native places. He added that education becomes meaningful only when combined with human values, gratitude and social responsibility.
Chief guest Dr. Jacinta D’Souza, Joint Director of the Karnataka Department of Women and Child Development, said parents should allow children to choose careers based on their interests and abilities. She advised parents against imposing their own choices and encouraged them to support children in pursuing their ambitions.
John D’Silva, Chairman of the John D’Silva Foundation, advised students to give greater importance to competitive examinations in the present digital era to improve career opportunities.
During the programme, five students who cleared the Chartered Accountancy (CA) examination, seven Ph.D. graduates and top-performing SSLC and PUC students from 52 churches under the Diocese of Udupi were honoured with cash awards and certificates.
The programme was presided over by Melwin Aranha, President of Catholic Sabha Udupi Pradesh. Several office-bearers and dignitaries, including Gladys D’Silva, Ronald Almeida, Urban Lewis, Walter Cyril Pinto, Valerian Fernandes, Alvin Quadras, Santosh Cornelio, Louis D’Souza, Sonu Sequeira and Theodore Mendonsa, were present.
The event began with a welcome address by programme convener Dr. Gerald Pinto. Juliet D’Souza delivered the vote of thanks, while Alani Danti compered the programme.
