Media Release
Mangaluru, Aug 19: The Konkani Cultural Organisation (KCO) has once again demonstrated its commitment to making a meaningful difference in the community by investing in deserving students. The KCO Trust disbursed educational scholarships at a ceremony held at the MCC Bank Hall, Founder’s Branch, Light House Hill Road, Mangaluru.
The event was graced by chief guest Anil Lobo, chairman, MCC Bank Ltd; Clevy Leo Rodrigues, president, KCO Trust and managing director of Amigo Automobile Services LLC, Abu Dhabi; Fr Vincent Thoras, director of Our Lady of Good Health Church, Mission Center, Gulbarga diocese; Franklin D’Cunha, treasurer of KCO; Michael D’Silva and Gerald D’Mello, KCO trustees; well-wishers of KCO; and recipients of scholarships along with their family members.
Michael D’Silva warmly welcomed the gathering and expressed his appreciation to everyone for being part of the occasion. The proceedings of the event were conducted by Leslie Rego, a well-wisher of KCO and a renowned master of ceremonies in Mangaluru. He introduced the guests on the dais and briefly outlined the journey of KCO and its commitment to promoting culture while supporting those in need. The event commenced with an invocation seeking God’s blessings and the ceremonial lighting of the traditional lamp. Floral tributes were presented to the dignitaries.
Since its inception in 1995, KCO, under the motto ‘Preserving Culture, Improving Lives’, has contributed towards various charitable activities, including the disbursement of scholarships. This year’s disbursement totalled Rs 11.5 lac for 67 meritorious and needy students from the Mangaluru, Udupi, Karwar, Gulbarga and Bidar regions.
KCO supports deserving and needy students aspiring to continue their education after SSLC and PUC and pursue their careers. Every year, KCO receives applications from students through various sources. After a meticulous selection process, eligible students are invited to the disbursement programme, and scholarship cheques are distributed to them directly in the presence of distinguished guests, KCO members and the parents of the beneficiaries.
On this occasion, chief guest Anil Lobo delivered an inspiring message to the students. He urged them not only to focus on their studies and achieve excellent results but also to engage actively in community activities and join youth organisations. This would help develop their personalities and cultivate leadership qualities, he said.
He stressed the need for students to communicate with people around them and resolve any problems they may face by confiding in their parents and siblings. He emphasised that developing problem-solving skills is a mark of distinction. He encouraged students to utilise their talents, be courageous and progress. He requested students to place their trust in their parents, always remain grateful and kind to them, and support them and society. He also commended KCO members for their kindness and generosity. Recalling the 30th anniversary celebrations of KCO, he said that KCO had won the hearts of the audience at the event.
Fr Vincent Thoras also imparted a motivating message to the students by giving the valuable illustration of a pepper creeper that produces valuable crops, but to do so, it has to cling to the support of a stronger tree. The pepper creeper teaches us that we also need support to reach greater heights and achieve our full potential to bear the fruits of success. “Today, you have received this support from KCO. It is the responsibility of the students to provide such support and continue the good work in the future,” he told the students.
Leo Rodrigues, in his address to the gathering, thanked the KCO sponsors for their generosity and invaluable support, which made it possible for KCO to carry out its charitable activities. He wished them good health and success.
He requested the scholarship recipients to maintain contact with KCO and update the organisation on their academic progress and achievements. He encouraged the students to contribute at least a small portion of their earnings to society once they start earning so that the spirit of supporting and empowering future students can continue to bring positive change to the community.
He also appreciated the efforts of the KCO scholarship disbursement committee members and the treasurer for efficiently administering the scholarship process. He thanked Anil Lobo for generously providing the venue for the event and wished blessings upon the students and their families.
KCO’s community support extends beyond educational scholarships; it also provides medical aid. It is noteworthy that, as part of its Pearl Jubilee celebrations, KCO supported the construction of two houses at Kayyar, Christ the King Church, and formally handed them over to two needy families earlier this year, providing them with the security and dignity of a safe home. The organisation has also laid the foundation for a third house at Narampady.
These initiatives reflect KCO’s broader commitment to empowering the community. Through its generous activities, KCO continues to translate its social responsibility into efforts that create a lasting impact.
The event concluded with Leslie Rego delivering a heartfelt vote of thanks and appreciating the collective efforts that led to the success of the event.