Media Release

Mysuru, Oct 10: The Social Change Agents' Forum (SCAF) Convention 2026, organised by the Ursuline Franciscan Educational Society (UFES), Mangaluru began at St Joseph Institutions, Hunsur on Friday, October 9, under the theme ‘Drive the change, build the future'. Bringing together 150 SCAF students from various schools under UFES from 3 states of southern parts of India, the three-day convention aims to inspire young people to become responsible agents of social transformation.

The convention commenced with a public awareness march through the streets of Hunsur town. Still tableaus on prevention of drug addiction and prohibition of child marriage, drew the attention of the public. The people of the town were made of the aware of the importance of keeping their surroundings clean and developing civic sense through a street play on waste management. The initiative highlighted pressing social concerns and encouraged collective responsibility in building a better society.

The inaugural stage programme was held at St Joseph Institutions ground. Inaugurating the convention, Dr Francis Serrao, bishop of Mysuru, emphasised the urgent need to create a new society founded on unity, harmony and mutual concern. He observed that meaningful social transformation requires a change in the prevailing ideological mindset. Appreciating the vision of UFES to build a new society by fostering humanity among the younger generation, he wished the convention success in achieving its objectives.

Manasa M, commissioner of Hunsur Municipality, addressed the students and spoke about the need for change, urging them to become individuals who actively contribute to the transformation of society. She encouraged the young participants to recognise their responsibility in addressing social challenges and to translate their convictions into meaningful action.

Manjunath J, Tahsildar of Hunsur, the guest of honour, highlighted the importance of nurturing a selfless attitude within the education system. He called for an educational approach that enables students to look beyond their personal interests and respond compassionately to the needs of others.

Sr Milly Fernandes, president of UFES, called upon the students to take the initiative in bringing about change and to face the challenges of society with courage. She encouraged them to become proactive change-makers who lead by example and work towards a more humane and inclusive society.

Sr Rita Vas, vice-president of UFES, proposed the vote of thanks. Sr Philomena Noronha the secretary of UFES, Sr Juliana Pinto and Sr Lydia Serrao were present on the dais. Govindegowda and Raghu compered the programme.

The convention will continue on October 10 and 11 with motivational sessions and inspiring stories of young change-makers from different parts of Karnataka. These sessions are intended to broaden the students’ perspectives, strengthen their commitment to social responsibility and equip them to respond creatively to the challenges facing society.

With its focus on awareness, compassion and action, SCAF Convention 2026 seeks to empower young people to move beyond being spectators of social change and become its active architects. The message of the convention remains clear: drive the change today to build a better future for tomorrow.