On Monday, Bishop Leslie Clifford D'Souza inaugurated the Umed 2026 guidance workshop at the Avemaria hall of Udupi Shokamata Church, marking the release of Rs 1.65 crore in educational assistance for 172 eligible students of the Udupi Diocese.
The bishop reminded the gathering that divine presence often appears in the form of people extending a helping hand during hardship. He praised Michael D'Souza for his humanitarian spirit, noting how his contributions have strengthened the diocese.
V. Denes Desai, the senior priest of the Shokamata Church, echoed the sentiment, stating that sharing God‑given blessings with others aligns us with divine grace.
CA Lionel Aranha, advisor to MDS Charities, presented a concise overview of the trust's support activities over the past 13 years. Under the Edukare programme, from 2013 to 2025, a total of 3,838 students received aid across the region—3,098 from Mangalore Diocese and 740 from Udupi Diocese. In addition to the current Rs 1.65 crore allocation, the charity has disbursed Rs 79 lakh for housing assistance in Udupi and Rs 14.80 lakh under the third‑child sponsorship scheme for qualifying families.
The event also announced the formation of an alumni network under the motto “One life touches another”. The network aims to provide career guidance, job assistance and mentorship, fostering long‑term ties between past beneficiaries and future aspirants.
Several student beneficiaries shared personal testimonies, expressing gratitude for the financial support that enables them to pursue professional and higher education. The bishop urged them to repay the community by helping others, thereby creating a positive social imprint.
Aranha concluded by assuring that MDS Charities remains ready to extend support and guidance to every deserving student in the Udupi Diocese.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Vartha Bharati Udupi