Pics: Ramesh Pandith
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SB)
Mangaluru, Aug 11: "If today's generation is willing to involve itself in social service, within days our society will shine with a new phase of reform. Today there are facilities to engage in social service without much hurdles and questions. People today need to evaluate the present situation of society and accordingly bring reforms," said social activist Harekala Hajabba.
He was addressing the students of Milagres College at the inaugural ceremony of the College outreach programme 'Sahayoga' on Friday, August 11.
"For thirty years, I had been walking across this college with a basket of oranges. Today the management gave me an opportunity to enter inside and address you. I think this is a great honour for me. If you find something missing in your life, you need to work for it. Once I felt I was missing education in my life. I thus constructed a school in my village. Later people started to recognize me. Today you have the capacity to reform society because you have education," he added.
Corrine Rasqinha of White Doves, an NGO, said, "I have faced many challenges and hurdles while rendering social service. Many times my health itself did not allow me to engage in social work. But I overcame these hurdles because of courage and determination.
"If you are trying to bring joy to others especially the suppressed and the depressed, God will never allow sadness in your life. You will be blessed for the service rendered to mankind and society will recognize you for that. Social service gives meaning to our life. Good things always end with positive results and happiness. We should touch the lives of people with the intention of service and charity," she concluded.
Fr Michel Santumayoor in his introductory and welcome speech said, "Today we have two great personalities with us. They are the role models for social workers. Without expecting anything in return, they are rendering their service to society. I congratulate the students for being part of this programme ‘Sahayoga’. The mentality to do something for society is highly appreciable."
Harekala Hajabba and Corrine Rasqinha were felicitated on the occasion.
Mamatha N R and Nayana K, coordinators of ‘Sahayoga’ along with student coordinator Harshita were present on the dais.