Media Release

Mangaluru, Jan 8: Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, bishop of Mangalore inaugurated the four-month online diploma certificate programme in counselling and psychology designed for Prison Ministry India volunteers on January 5 at St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) Mangaluru. This is a collaborative venture between St Aloysius University, Mangaluru and Prison Ministry India National Office in Carmelaram, Bengaluru.

Prof Edmund Frank, course coordinator, welcomed and introduced the dignitaries. Dr Francis Kodiyan, MCBS national coordinator and co-founder, Prison Ministry India (PMI) explained the significance of this course and said that a diploma in counselling and psychology was becoming absolutely necessary for PMI volunteers.

In his inaugural address, Dr Peter Paul Saldanha congratulated St Aloysius University and Prison Ministry India for this useful programme designed for Prison Ministry volunteers all over India.

Dr Ronald Nazareth, registrar in his address gave a very encouraging message and said that the University is always receptive to such useful outreach programmes and promises all support.

Dr Praveen Martis SJ, vice chancellor in his presidential address spoke about his personal experience in working with prison inmates at the Tihar Jail and said that this was the fourth such diploma programme conducted with affiliation from St Aloysius University for prison inmates and volunteers. Dr Rosa Nimmy Mathew co-coordinator and resource person and Dr Saritha D’Souza graced the occasion.

Sr Amala, national secretary PMI proposed the vote of thanks.