Daijiworld Media Network—Bantwal (CN)

Bantwal, Mar 10: ‘Samanvaya’, Mangalore, inaugurated its 10th free tailoring-cum-embroidery course for women in Madame village, Siddakatte, in memory of late Fr Bernard D’Souza.  The course is of nine months duration.
 
Latha, a renowned social worker under Sahodaya Bethany Seva Kendra, welcomed all and this was followed by a prayer song sung by the new students.  Stanley Noronha and wife, Kuwait, were the chief guests of the day who wished the students success and a prosperous future.  They were felicitated with shawls and garlands.

Dr Ronald Cutinha, director, Samanvaya, reiterated the importance of women being self-reliant in the present world. He said that unlike in the past, the women should make all efforts to improve their economic status by becoming financially independent without dependency on men.

Dr Pius Fidelis Pinto, managing trustee, Samanvaya, remembered the late Fr D’Souza and spoke of his concern for the poor and the downtrodden, especially women. He said that Samanvaya is carrying on his mission of helping the helpless and this 10th  free tailoring course within the short span of  four years is a matter of pride for Samanvaya and to all those who have availed of this facility.

Sr Prema Gonsalves, co-ordinator, Sahodaya Bethany Seva Kendra, and Sr Mabel D’Souza, women’s co-ordinator, also spoke on the importance of women empowerment. Local resident Varija’s thoughtful gesture in giving rent-free space for conducting the tailoring course was appreciated by one and all.

Baby, Kukkipady gram panchayat member, was also a guest on the dais. Leena Castelino, secretary, Sneha Mahila Mandala, took the initiative for this free tailoring course in the village.
 
Latha conducted the entire programme and Savita proposed the vote of thanks.  Also seated on the dais were. Prema, tailoring teacher, and Jacintha Pinto of Samanvaya. There were about 50 people present at the event. About 25 students have enrolled for the  classes.