Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (NP)

Udupi, Oct 11: The inauguration ceremony of the Michael D’Souza Educare Endowment Fund was held in Udupi, marking a significant milestone in providing financial support to deserving students in the region.

Since its establishment, the Michael D’Souza Educare Endowment Fund has been a beacon of hope for students facing financial challenges. Between 2013 and 2023, a total of 1,157 students benefited from the fund, receiving financial assistance amounting to Rs 5,60,39,500. This year, 12 new students received funding of Rs 8,70,400, while 37 renewal students were awarded a total of Rs 32,35,000. The beneficiaries include 18 students pursuing engineering, 10 in allied health sciences, eight in nursing, seven in graduation programs, three in postgraduate studies, two in MBBS, and one in a master’s in pharmacy. The next event under this initiative will be held on January 19, 2025, at Anugraha Pastoral Centre.

Michael D’Souza, the visionary behind the trust, shared his thoughts on the importance of education in transforming lives. “Education can change the financial destiny of a person,” he remarked. He expressed his desire to help Christian students facing financial difficulties in pursuing their education. “My intention is that no Christian student should be deprived of education due to financial constraints,” he said. He also encouraged students to remain connected to their roots, advising them never to forget their parents, mother tongue, and native place. “It is not wrong to go abroad and work, but you should never forget where you come from,” he added. Reflecting on his own experience, he shared that although he has business interests abroad, his commitment to his native community remains strong. He urged students to remember that hard work is the only path to success and emphasized the importance of building a strong, supportive community. “The Udupi community should be an ideal community in India,” he said. Concluding his speech, he thanked God for blessing him with enough resources to share with others.

Fr Valerian D’Souza, advisor to the Michael D’Souza Trust, paid tribute to the late Sir Ratan Tata, whose philanthropy has been widely recognized across the nation. Drawing a parallel, he said, “Today, Michael D’Souza is the Ratan Tata of Mangalore.” He spoke about the small group that came together with the idea of supporting students who excel academically but face financial hurdles. He highlighted that the endowment fund operates through a systematic process of selecting students, ensuring that deserving candidates receive the financial aid they need. He also noted that the blessings Michael D’Souza has received in life are a result of his generosity toward others, allowing him to grow both personally and professionally.

Bishop of the Diocese of Udupi, Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, also addressed the gathering. Reflecting on the establishment of the Udupi Diocese, he mentioned how the community had envisioned a future where no one from the Christian community would face financial difficulties, whether in terms of housing, income, or health. He acknowledged the significance of the student fund, explaining that the diocese currently provides scholarships to 600 students with the help of donors from abroad. However, he pointed out that funding for higher education is often difficult to secure due to the large amounts required. “This Educare Trust, which began in Mangalore, recognized the need to extend its support to students from Udupi as well,” he stated. He praised the efforts of the trust, which has provided over Rs 5 crore in financial assistance to students, with only Rs 10 lakh left to disburse. “The money these students receive helps them achieve their goals, and they return the favor once they are successful,” he said, lauding Michael D’Souza for being a pillar of support for the diocese. Bishop Lobo expressed his gratitude to Michael D’Souza, saying, “While we may not be able to give him anything in return, we offer our prayers for him in church every day.” He also urged students to remain focused on their goals and avoid distractions that could hinder their progress.

Vicar general of Udupi Diocese, Msgr Ferdinand Gonsalves, quoting Nelson Mandela, said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” He further emphasized that Michael D’Souza has been instrumental in shaping the future of students from the Mangalore and Udupi dioceses by ensuring that they have access to education, irrespective of their financial backgrounds.

The Michael D’Souza Educare Endowment Fund has emerged as a crucial lifeline for students in the Udupi and Mangalore dioceses, helping them overcome financial barriers and pursue their educational dreams. With its systematic approach to selecting deserving students and its commitment to supporting higher education, the trust continues to make a profound impact on the lives of many. The trust’s efforts not only provide financial aid but also foster a sense of responsibility among students to give back to their community once they have achieved success in their careers.

Msgr Ferdinand Gonsalves welcomed the gathering, Janet Barbosa gave the vote of thanks, and Fr Reginald Pinto compered the event.

The event was graced by distinguished guests, including the founder of the Trust, Michael D’Souza, Bishop of the Diocese of Udupi, Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, vicar general of Udupi Diocese, Msgr Ferdinand Gonsalves, advisor to the Michael D’Souza Trust, Fr Valerian D’Souza, Flavia D’Souza, wife of Michael D’Souza, along with other trustees and dignitaries.