Belthangady, Aug 9:
The Capuchin Krishik Seva Kendra (CKSK), supported by the Kuwait
Canara Welfare Association (KCWA), organized the ninth year Suvidya
Interest-Free Educational Loan Disbursement Programme at Vimukti,
Beltangady, on Sunday, August 9.
The Suvidya scheme aims to support economically disadvantaged youth
in the Diocese of Mangaluru in pursuing higher education by
providing interest-free educational loans.
The programme commenced with a prayer. The dignitaries present on
the dais included KCWA nominated committee member Johnson Almeida,
KCWA auditor Kevin D Souza, ICYM Diocese of Mangaluru director Fr
Praveen D Souza, CKSK-Vimukti director Fr Vinod Mascarenhas, and
CKSK-Vimukti assistant director Fr Rohan Lobo.
Fr Rohan Lobo presented an overview of the Suvidya initiative from
2018 to 2026, highlighting its journey and contribution towards
helping deserving students pursue higher education.
The programme was symbolically inaugurated by placing flowers on the
book of the Constitution of India.
Addressing the gathering, Johnson Almeida explained the remarkable
journey of KCWA and gratefully remembered all those who have
contributed to its growth and success over the years. He encouraged
the students to pursue their education with dedication and
determination, work hard to achieve their goals, and use their
knowledge and talents for the betterment of society.
KCWA auditor Kevin D Souza appreciated the meticulous efforts of the
Capuchins in monitoring and managing the funds. He highlighted the
aims and objectives of KCWA and spoke about its significant
contribution to humanitarian activities. He also recalled the
various initiatives undertaken by KCWA for the welfare and
development of society.
Fr Praveen D Souza, Director of ICYM, Diocese of Mangaluru,
addressed the youth and stressed the importance of education in
shaping their future. He encouraged the students to actively
participate in the mission of the Church and society and to dedicate
themselves to humanitarian service with compassion, commitment and a
spirit of selflessness.
The beneficiaries were symbolically presented with cheques during
the programme. A total of Rs 13,14,000 was disbursed among 27
students under the Suvidya 2026 scheme.
Fr Vinod Mascarenhas, Director of CKSK, expressed his gratitude to
KCWA for its continued support and dedicated service in helping
youth pursue higher education in the Diocese of Mangaluru. He
appreciated the previous beneficiaries for repaying their loans on
time, thereby enabling new students to benefit from the Suvidya
interest-free loan facility.
He urged the new beneficiaries to maintain the same spirit of
responsibility and ensure that the scheme continues to benefit
deserving students in the years to come. He also cautioned the youth
against social evils, particularly substance abuse and bad company.
As part of the programme, Fr Vinod also delivered an informative
session on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO)
Act. He sensitized the students on the importance of awareness,
personal safety, responsible behaviour and protecting children and
young people from abuse and exploitation.
To mark the occasion, a memento was presented to the KCWA members by
Fr Vinod Mascarenhas in appreciation of their continued support and
collaboration.
Cynthia compered the programme, while Jenvira proposed the vote of
thanks.














