News and Pics by Vitori Karkala (GA)

Karwar, May 29: The long awaited dream of introducing Konkani in schools as optional subject is soon to be realized.  The Konkani Prachar Samiti established by Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy had met Bishop Aloysius Paul D'Souza of Mangalore and Fr Wilson D'Souza, secretary of Catholic Board in this regard who had extended their full support for the ambitious project.

Now going a step ahead Konkani Prachar Samiti president Eric Ozario, along with members Narayana Kharvi and Vitori Karkala met Bishop William D'Mello of Karwar on Friday May 26 to seek his support to introduce Konkani in 5 schools run by the diocese.  They also met vicar general Msgr Simon Tellis.

Eric Ozario briefed about the entire project and sought support from Bishop to introduce Konkani in schools.  For long, after Mangalore, the diocese of Karwar has been regarded as one of the strongholds of Konkani.  So the Konkani Prachar Samiti has planned to introduce Konkani in 5 schools run by the Catholic Board of Karwar diocese.

Responding to the request Bishop William D'Mello said that he would wholeheartedly back the project.  "Today English has made inroads even in the remote rural areas.  But there is still love for Konkani in the diocese.  Most of the people still speak Konkani in their houses to converse with the family members. But while having a close look at the present situation I feel that this love may gradually die down unless we take some steps to promote it at the root level.  In this regard I stand by you and extend my support for your project," he promised.

He also instructed the delegation to meet Catholic Board secretary Fr Francis Fernandes in order to take further steps.