Pics by: Raghavendra
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Aug 9: The 9th annual scholarship distribution programme organised by MCCQ Charitable Trust was held at Ave Maria Hall, Mother of Sorrows Church, Udupi, on Sunday, August 9.
Fr Praveen Leo Lasrado, secretary of the Catholic Board of Education, Mangaluru diocese, led the invocation and blessing.
Welcoming the gathering, former MCCQ president Naveen D'Souza said the organisation’s journey began in Qatar in 1992 with the aim of bringing the Konkani community together.
“MCCQ has been organising various programmes, including Soad International and Baila dance competitions, along with several social initiatives. The MCCQ Charitable Trust was established in 2018 and currently has 23 trustees. So far, the trust has provided scholarships worth Rs 19.5 lac to students, while Rs 18.5 lac has been distributed through its medical aid programme,” he said.
He noted that the economic situation in the Gulf has not remained as favourable as in earlier years, but the trustees have continued their support for students. He urged the scholarship recipients to extend similar assistance to others in the future and requested prayers for the members and trustees of MCCQ.
Addressing the gathering, Fr Praveen Leo Lasrado said the younger generation has the potential to bring positive changes to society and urged students to work towards peace and justice.
“Those receiving scholarships today have been selected from among many students and should consider themselves fortunate. They should be grateful to MCCQ, their parents and the Almighty. The helping hands receiving support today should, in turn, extend help to society in the future,” he said.
Fr Vincent Robert Crasta, secretary of the Catholic Education Society, Udupi diocese, said the coastal districts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi have a strong educational environment, with several universities and institutions.
However, he pointed out that many corporate educational institutions primarily cater to privileged sections, while Christian educational institutions in both dioceses have continued to serve students from all sections of society without discrimination.
“Over the years, Christian educational institutions have rendered remarkable service to society. When we give, we receive,” he said.
Presiding over the programme, bishop emeritus of Udupi diocese Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo appreciated MCCQ for its continued educational assistance to students.
“Education helps enlighten lives. MCCQ is rendering a noble service by supporting students. Always aim higher. Perseverance is an important quality that helps us achieve our dreams. Dream big, and with perseverance, success will follow,” he said.
He also appreciated the MCCQ members and trustees for contributing to the cause over the years by making sacrifices from their own earnings.
Founder trustee Jacintha Mendonca read out the names of the scholarship recipients, while Shruthi Patricia D'Souza compered the programme. Prakash Noronha proposed the vote of thanks.
MCCQ trustees, advisors and members were present on the occasion.