Media Release
Mangaluru, Jul 7: In a heartwarming initiative under the banner Carmel Ignite, the Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte, distributed scholarships to over 160 deserving and underprivileged students on Sunday, July 6. The event, held in the Shrine premises, was marked by hope, inspiration, and encouragement for young minds.
Michael D’Souza, NRI and philanthropist, and Geetha Judith Saldanha, popularly known as Geetha teacher, were the chief guests for the event.
Welcoming the gathering, Fr Stephan Pereira, OCD, shrine director, remarked, “The Infant Jesus Shrine has always been a beacon of hope - not only for those who come in search of spiritual solace but also for the socio-economically disadvantaged. Through various outreach programs, the shrine strives to uplift lives through education, healthcare, and housing assistance.”
He also highlighted the social apostolate of the Carmelite Fathers in rural mission areas such as Hoovina Hadagalli (Ballari), Kadaganchi (Kalaburagi), and Jagalur (Davanagere).
In his keynote address, Michael D’Souza lauded the noble gesture of the shrine and motivated the students: “Education is the greatest gift. Once a person is educated, their entire life is enlightened. No matter one’s economic background, everyone must strive for excellence. Let us never forget our father and mother, mother tongue, and motherland. We may be born poor, but we need not remain in poverty if we make use of the opportunities available. True joy lies in giving generously.”
Geetha Judith Saldanha, headmistress and former cluster resource person, shared her inspirational journey of reviving the once-declining Bolar Senior Primary West School in Mangaluru. When she assumed charge, the school had only six students. Undeterred, she began visiting nearby slums and personally encouraged parents - many of whom worked in fish factories - to send their children to school. Her tireless efforts bore fruit: within just four days, enrolment surged to over 200 students, breathing new life into the 111-year-old institution.
Speaking on the occasion, Saldanha affirmed, “Every child has a bright future. Education is the path that will lead them there.”
She also shared her personal story of resilience. Coming from a financially challenged background, she recalled how, as a young girl, she supported her own education by delivering newspapers door-to-door each morning before school. Her testimony stood as a powerful reminder of what determination, hard work, and education can achieve.
In a gesture of support and solidarity, the Infant Jesus Shrine has adopted Bolar Senior Primary West School this year, providing essential resources such as school bags, notebooks, uniforms, and storage cupboards to support the students and enhance the learning environment.
Fr Melwin D'Cunha, OCD, superior of St Joseph’s Monastery, extended his best wishes to the students and expressed heartfelt gratitude to all the donors and benefactors who made the scholarship programme possible.
The programme was compered by Melveera Rodrigues, and the event concluded with blessings and words of encouragement for the young scholars to aim high and shine bright.