Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (ANK)
Mangaluru, Aug 13: In a noble gesture to help deserving students and organizations working to uplift the society, Konkani Cultural Organization (KCO) Trust in association with Samanvaya, Mangaluru disbursed educational scholarships and financial assistance to NGOs in a ceremony held at Centenary Memorial hall, Jeppu here on Sunday August 13.
Addressing the gathering, bishop of Mangaluru Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza said, "I have known KCO founder Leo Rodrigues for long. He has always come forward to extend a helping hand to the needy and has never hesitated when it comes to helping people. May god bless KCO members, NGOs and students in their future endeavours.
"KCO has been doing charity from several years without any barrier of religion or caste. Our community itself inspires us to do good for the people without looking at anyone’s religion, caste or creed. Students are the future and they have certain responsibilities. This time around the KCO has doubled the scholarship amount. I want students to benefit from the assistance given by KCO, and in the same way, help others in future."
Founder president of KCO, Leo Rodrigues said, "KCO came into existence in 1995 as a small organization. From 2004 onwards, we started disbursing financial assistance to students and NGOs with the objective of helping the needy. So far, 1000 students have availed benefits from us. We coordinate with the Samanvaya in Mangaluru to identify the students and NGOs who need financial assistance.
"This time around, we have doubled the scholarship amount. I urge students to utilize the money for better education and become responsible citizens. After becoming independent, look after your parents and also help others who are in need," he added.
As many as 61 students received educational scholarships, while six NGOs were given financial assistance. The NGOs were White Doves, Prashanth Nivas, Jeeva Nidhi, Saanidhya, Sneha Sadan and Jeevadhan.
President of Konkani Cultural Organization Dolphy Vaz welcomed the gathering. Director of Samanvaya Ronald Cuntinho compered the programme. KCO treasurer Valerian Fernandes proposed the vote of thanks.
KCO vice-president Franklin D'Cunha, trustee Micheal D'Silva, Jerry D'Mello and others were present.