The Udupi Diocese marked a significant milestone with the inauguration of the Mr Michael D’Souza and Family Educare Endowment (Revolving) Fund at the Anugraha Pastoral Center, Kakkunje on October 10, 2024: . This momentous event was organized by the Samapda of the Udupi Diocese and was graced by Most Rev. Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, Bishop of Udupi, along with prominent figures such as Monsignor Ferdinand Gonsalves, Vicar General, Udupi Diocese and Rev. Fr Valerian D’Souza, Educare Committee Advisor.
The ceremony began with a warm welcome from Monsignor Gonsalves, who introduced the distinguished guests and set the tone for the event, emphasizing the importance of education in transforming lives. A highlight of the occasion was when Mr Michael D’Souza and his wife, Mrs Flavia D’Souza, distributed interest-free loans to 49 deserving students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. These loans, amounting to Rs. 41,05,500, form part of the larger impact of the Educare Endowment Fund, which has provided over Rs. 56 million in financial aid to 1,157 students over the past twelve years.
Bishop Gerald Lobo, in his address, underscored the moral duty to support those in need, especially as one achieves success. He encouraged the students to dedicate themselves to their studies, nurture a focused mindset, and persist in their academic journeys. He commended the D’Souza family’s philanthropic spirit, describing their contributions as a model for community support.
Mr Michael D’Souza, reflecting on the power of education, reiterated his belief that education can change an individual's economic status. He expressed his family's commitment to ensuring that no student is deprived of educational opportunities due to financial constraints.
The event also featured contributions from Rev. Fr Valerian D’Souza, Director of the Educare Endowment Fund, who spoke about the collaborative efforts driving the initiative. The program concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Janet Barboza, and the event was expertly compered by Director Rev. Fr Reginald Pinto.
The inauguration of the Michael D’Souza & Family Educare Endowment Fund stands as a beacon of hope for many students in the Udupi Diocese, embodying a communal commitment to education and social responsibility that promises to uplift future generations.
