Pics: Abhijith N Kolpe
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (ANK)
Mangaluru, Aug 11: Konkani Cultural Organization (KCO) Trust, in association with Samanvaya, Mangaluru, disbursed educational scholarships in a ceremony held at Centenary Memorial hall, Jeppu here on Sunday, August 11.
Principal of St Aloysius College Fr Praveen Martis inaugurated the programme.
As many as 45 students received scholarships worth Rs seven lac and four NGOs received financial assistance from KCO.
Addressing the gathering, principal of St Aloysius College Fr Praveen Martis said, "I congratulate Konkani Cultural organization for distributing scholarships to the students and financial assistance to the NGOs. Next year KCO is celebrating 25 years of its service. During these 25 years, they have helped deserving families. I urge the students to contribute to the society when they earn and have a rotation to give back to those in society, who are in need of the same.”
Founder president KCO Leo Rodrigues said, "Students need to get inspired from KCO in doing social service and have that spirit of doing good to others. That thought should come to your mind.”
President KCO Valerian Almeida said, "KCO was formed in the year 1995 and in 2004 we formed as the trust and started distributing scholarships to the students and financial assistance to the NGOs. Every year we conduct fund raising event and people working abroad contribute, as they know KCO has touched the life of the poor and marginalized in giving scholarships and medical aid.”
Valerian further said, “KCO came into existence in 1995 as a small organization. From 2004 onwards, KCO started disbursing financial assistance to students and NGOs with the objective of helping the needy. So far, over 1000 students have availed benefits from KCO. KCO coordinates with Samanvaya in Mangaluru to identify the students and NGOs who need financial assistance.”
President KCO Valerian Almeida and KCO assistant secretary Lizel Pinto rendered the vote of thanks. Director of Samanvaya, Fr Ronald Cutinho compered the event.
Former President of KCO Micheal D’Silva, former general secretary Leena D’Souza, member Jaison Correa and others were present.