Pics: Meryick D'Silva
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (JS)

Mangaluru, Apr 20: A mural carrying a meaning message to society and a Reflection Park housing the mural were inaugurated at School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya here on Monday April 20.

The students of School of Roshni Nilaya, in a unique initiative, underwent a critical learning programme using creative peaceful resistance (CPR) approach, by connecting with local domestic workers and learning about insights and visions for change. These visions were translated into a full color mural - the first of many to be installed in a Reflection Park built on the Roshni Nilaya campus.

The initiative was taken after Roshni Nilaya was chosen for Fulbright Specialist grant from the United States Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, which is on an assignment to work with Roshni Nilaya. The programme awards grants to qualified US faculty and professionals, in select disciplines to engage in short-term collaborative two-to-six week projects at eligible institutions in over 140 countries worldwide. Project requests are submitted by non-US institutions and focus on strengthening and supporting institutions development needs. This critical service learning project uses a unique approach to inform, engage, and transform communities.

The inaugural ceremony at the campus on Monday also included a performance on the creative peaceful resistance approach by students.

Dr Sophia Fernandes, principal of School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya welcomed the gathering and the event was formally inaugurated by lighting the lamp by Dr Jacintha D'Souza and other dignitaries.

Dr Lorna Gonsalves, Fulbright specialist from the United States, who initiated the critical service learning project with the students, in her introductory speech said, "It was a pleasure working with everyone involved in the project. I thank everyone for their support and cooperation throughout the project."

Addressing the students, she said, "The future of this nation lies in your hands. Make the best use of the opportunities available."

Dr Jacintha D'souza inaugurated the Reflection Park and unveiled the mural.

Inspirational hymn, poem, mime, tableau and song were performed depicting the plight of domestic workers. Atrocities against domestic workers were demonstrated through the creative peaceful resistance approach. A videotape of this event will be shared with a global audience under the Fulbright programme.