from Vinay Pais
for Daijiworld Media Network – Kundapur (NR)

Kundapur, Mar 12: "The world today is becoming highly competitive. Our future will be secure only if our women-folk are empowered," elucidated parish priest Fr Antony Lobo of Kundapur ward while speaking on the occasion of the women’s day celebrations organized under the auspices of Holy Rosary Women’s Association here recently.

Fr Lobo opined, 'the responsibility of our women is in no way less on that account, for they are the custodians of our future generation, whose conduct and character normally reflect that of their parents, especially their mothers. If this aspect is borne in mind, then gender inequality would vanish by itself,' he added.

Furthermore he stated, 'Mere passing of enactments by our legislators or the parliamentarians for that matter would not help us, unless and until such noble intentions comes from the depths of our hearts. Just as charity begins at home, so also social transformation such as empowerment of women should first take place in our hearths or what we call kitchens,' he added.

Moreover he advised, 'Let our parents first stop discriminating among their children, such as preferring boys to girls. This is a highly repulsive trend and irrelevant in the context of the dynamic changes taking place throughout the globe. Male-dominated world must and should make way for the dawn of gender equality," he concluded.

Principal Fr Prakash Cutinho, chief of Convent Sr Ida, vice-president Basil D’Souza, secretary Diana Almeida, president of women’s association Victoria D’Souza, secretary Vinaya D’Costa and Shaila Almeida were present on the occasion. On the special occasion, five exceptional women were felicitated for their work in their respective fields.

President Victoria D’souza welcomed the gathering. Secretary Vinaya D’Costa read out the report while treasurer Shaila Almeida read out the financial statements of the association. Jacintha Pais compered the programme and Dorin D’Souza proposed the vote of thanks.