Report and Pics by Denis D'Silva (GA)

Mangalore, Feb 3: The best way for the minority communities to enter into mainstream of the society is to equip themselves with education.  Education is the prime parametre to judge the development of any generation, culture or community," said MIFT founder president M G Hegde.

He was speaking after inaugurating "Balu-Belagisi", an awareness programme on education held at DKZP School at Kasaba Bengre here recently.  The programme was organized by Sparsha Counselling Centre which is being promoted and guided by Konkani Yuva Awaz.

M G Hegde called on the parents to put in their efforts in educating their children.  "The need of the day is not just education but education with morals and values which helps in building a healthy and great country.  People should aim for higher studies so that drop-out rates decreases in the schools," he added.

Some of the talented students were felicitated and presented with prizes on the occasion.  General secretary of Sparsha Counselling Centre Denis D'Silva, school headmistress Juliet B Pinto, school education committee Sadik and Bina were the chief guests.

School teacher Albina welcomed the gathering while Sunita proposed the vote of thanks.  Priya compered the programme.

MSW students Clara, Renita, Jyothi, Shilpa, Shakir, Selvyn, Arun, Subhani, Ganesh, Hilary, Junus, Shekharappa, Sharif and Divya were also present on the occasion.