Pics: Abhijith N Kolpe
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (ANK)
Mangaluru, Jul 19: The CASK Centenary Trust distributed scholarships worth over Rs 30 lac to 307 deserving students on Saturday, July 19, at the Centenary Building, St Agnes College.
The CASK Centenary Trust has been awarding scholarships since 2014. These scholarships are granted without any consideration of religion, language, marks, or merit. The only criterion is the economic condition of the applicant—whether the student belongs to a marginalized or distressed family.
Speaking on the occasion, NRI philanthropist Michael D’Souza said, “Education gives you knowledge, confidence, and financial power. Never, ever discontinue your education—no matter what. We may be born poor, but if you die poor, it means you did not make use of the opportunities you had or did not work hard enough. Always love and respect your elders, parents, and teachers. Be determined to become self-sufficient, and remember to give back to those in need when you are able.”
Bishop of Mangalore Diocese, Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, said, “Today, on this occasion, we feel the vibrations of gratitude, love, goodness, generosity, and a shared sense of well-being and acceptance that transcends borders. The children here come from different communities, yet we can see the spirit of humanity in each of them—and that is what I want you to take back home.”
Principal of St Agnes College, Sr Vennissa AC, also spoke on the occasion.
The programme was attended by scholarship awardees, their parents, and the donors and benefactors of the CASK Centenary Trust.
Since 2014, the CASK Centenary Trust has been reaching out to all with empathy, particularly to those in distress and on the margins of society, through initiatives in education, healthcare, shelter support, counselling, and environmental preservation.
The trust aims to be a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change, strengthening communities and improving the lives of those it serves.
The scholarship programme is intended to motivate the beneficiaries to work hard and pursue a quality education that will enable them to stand proudly on their own feet someday, in service to their families, the community, and the nation.
Of the 307 beneficiaries, 162 are girls, and nearly 40 percent are from rural areas. The students represent over 70 different institutions and include school and college students, as well as those pursuing professional courses such as nursing, engineering, and paramedical streams.
Managing Trustee R C Rodrigues and scholarship programme convenor Ullas Rasquinha were also present.
Nayana Fernandes compered the event and welcomed the gathering, while Gulobi Fernandes proposed the vote of thanks.