KCO Abu Dhabi Distributes Educational Scholarship and Financial Support to NGOs
Mangaluru: Abu Dhabi’s premier socio-cultural organization KCO Abu Dhabi organized the distribution of educational scholarships programme to the economically backward college students at the Centenary Memorial Hall, St Joseph’s Seminary, Jeppu, here on August 13.
The programme began with an invocation. The president of KCO Dolphy Vas welcomed the gathering. The programme was inaugurated by the Bishop of Mangaluru Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza by lighting the traditional lamp along with other dignitaries on the dais.
In his introductory remarks, the founder president and managing trustee of KCO Leo Rodrigues said, “From past 14 years, in the month of August, through KCO we have been supporting the deserving and needy students who aspire to continue their education after SSLC and PUC to pursue their career. KCO has partnered with Samanvaya, an NGO which receives applications from such students through various sources and scrutinizes them. This year we received only 61 applications since parents can afford to educate their children up to PUC. After PUC some parents find it difficult to pay the fees. In this regard, we the members of KCO contribute our mite to support the needy students back home to pursue their education.”
Leo Rodrigues further said, “This year we have increased the amount for Scholarships. I request the students to take up the responsibility and help their parents. Do not get addicted to drugs or bad habits. Students should also speak the truth, some students have filled the applications for the scholarship showing unrealistic income of their parents. You are not submitting your income to the government. KCO members are contributing towards a good cause, they are contributing money to educate the poor and needy students so that they too can get good education. Those who receive financial help after they complete their education should lend a helping hand to the needy students. We need to inculcate the habit of helping others. Parents should teach their children to take responsibility. Those who have received the scholarship should use the funds for their education and not misuse it. Youth are the future of the country and the future of the country is in your hands. Pray for KCO members for their generosity, because since 2004, KCO has been supporting this cause and more than 1000 students have benefited.”
Bishop Dr Aloysius D’Souza distributed the Scholarship to 61 students on the occasion. Cheques were distributed to the following NGO’s: 1. White Doves, 2. Jeevadaan, 3. Sneha Sadana, 4. Prashanth Nivas, 5. Sanidhya and, 6. Jeevanidhi.
Addressing the gathering Bishop Aloysius said, “I would like to congratulate the KCO for their initiative to help the poor and the needy students financially to pursue their education. KCO is following what Jesus said. We are Christians and Jesus has asked us to help one another. It is a call from God and KCO is following it. KCO members contribute their hard earned money to educate their poor brethren in their home town by distributing scholarships. Those who have received help from KCO should remember to help others after they complete their education and get a job. Be responsible, study well, get good marks and make your family and KCO proud.”
KCO Treasurer Valerian D’Almeida delivered the vote of thanks. Director of Samanvaya Fr Ronald Cutinha compered the programme. Michael D’Silva, Jerry D’Mello, Benet D’Mello, KCO vice president Franklin D’Cunha, Laveena Rodrigues and others were also present.