Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (EC)
Udupi, Oct 11: Udupi Social Venture Philanthropic Foundation (SVPF) on Sunday October 11 distributed scholarships to talented students of economically weaker families in a ceremony held at Hotel Durga International here. This was SVPF's 100th event.
With Blessed Mother Theresa as its inspiration, the USVP Foundation has been into social service from the past ten years, providing career guidance, scholarships, health camps, tailoring and embroidery classes to girls and women in and around Udupi.
The foundation has been recognized as an NGO since 2009 and has been receiving not only financial support but a huge amount of appreciation for its invaluable service.
Jerry Vincent Dais, proprietor, Mandavi Builders and Developers, Udupi inaugurated the event by lighting the lamp.
Addressing the gathering, Jerry Dais expressed his joy saying, "I feel fortunate to provide scholarships to Christian youths. Through education, economy of a nation grows stronger, so does the standard of living. There are two types of people; one who do not accept failure and do nothing, and second, those who persist by rising up even though they fall.
"Life is like a book of 100 pages. We might fail once but we do get opportunities to fill in the rest of the 99 pages," he added.
He asked the beneficiaries to support USVP once they reach their goals.
He asked the students to support and love their parents in their old age. "Only with parents blessings can we be successful in life. I will always help this foundation in every way," he added.
In his introductory speech, John B Monteiro said, “Our lives must be like a ship with a proper direction that always reaches its destination."
Stressing on the importance of being self-employed and creating employment opportunities for others, he said, "Grabbing up opportunities around you is called business. One must make correct use of these opportunities and resources."
He also quoted ‘A true entrepreneur is a doer’. He also suggested one could handle any business despite his profession, and encouraged the beneficiaries to try and become self-employed.
Speaking on the occasion, Fr Denis D'Sa said, "Youth are the future of our nation. One is recognized by his/her attitude. Hence, one needs to possess the right attitude in the society."
He also promised his support to the USVP in the coming days.
Rishal Smitha D’Mello and Prema thanked the Foundation on this occasion on behalf of all the students. Donald Saldanha welcomed the gathering while James D’souza proposed the vote of thanks. Sheila Fernandes compered the entire programme.
As many as 100 deserving students, comprising those pursuing professional courses, undergraduation and pre-university were given scholarships in cheques during the programme.
The programme was presided over by Fr Denis D’sa, PRO, diocese of Udupi. Fr William Martis, secretary, Sauharda committee, diocese of Udupi, John B Monteiro, president, Rachana, Catholic Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Mangaluru, Donald Saldanha, president, USVP Foundation, James D’souza, secretary, USVP Foundation were present on the dais.