Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi
Sany Digital Studio, Kalmady

Udupi, Sep 10: John D’Silva Foundation, Mumbai, John Farm, Kuntalpady, Karkala and Catholic Sabha Udupi Pradesh on Monday September 9 jointly organized a scholarship distribution programme at Don Bosco Hall.

George Pinto, deputy commissioner for excise, Udupi district inaugurated the programme by lighting the lamp.

Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, bishop of Udupi diocese presided over the programme. John D’Silva, chairman of John D’Silva Foundation, Mumbai, Gladys D’Silva, Fr Fred Mascarenhas, dean of Udupi deanery, Fr Ferdinand Gonsalves, spiritual director of Catholic Sabha Udupi Pradesh, Ellory Kiran Crasta, president, Catholic Sabha Udupi Pradesh, Mary D’souza, secretary, Elsy D’Souza, programme convener, and Walter Pinto, former president, Catholic Sabha Mangalore diocese were present on the dais.

In his presidential address, the bishop asked the students who received scholarships to give back their debt to society by helping other students once they start earning. He also stressed on the need to uphold human values and urged them to take up more government job and take up civil services.

George Pinto echoed the bishop's words and said that the Christian community, though it has achieved a lot in various fields, should make its presence felt in politics and government services too.

As many as 53 students who secured high marks in the SSLC examinations in 2012 - 13 were honoured with cash prizes, medals and certificates. Among them, 48 students were those pursuing state syllabus and five CBSE syllabus. While the 48 students were selected from each parish of Udupi diocese, the five were selected from each of the deaneries. Their parents were also felicitated on the occasion.

Catholic Sabha Udupi Pradesh president Ellory Kiran Crasta welcomed the gathering, while secretary Mary D’Souza proposed the vote of thanks. Shalia Fernandes, Udupi and Eugene Lasardo from Kalmady compered the programme.