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CODP’s Educare Endowment Fund empowers students with over Rs 16 crore

In a significant boost for education, the Micheal D’Souza and Family Educare Endowment Fund disbursement programme took place at CODP on Thursday, October 17. For over 11 years, Educare has been a lifeline for 3,272 needy students across the Mangalore and Udupi dioceses.

This year’s disbursement was remarkable, with the first installment of Rs 74,42,000 awarded to 84 students on September 16, followed by a substantial second installment of Rs 86,60,000 to 103 students on October 17.

Michael D’Souza and his family, alongside Educare Fund Committee members Evelin Benis, Richard Alvares, and John D’Souza, were honoured for their pivotal roles in this initiative.

Chief guest Michael D’Souza recognised the contributions of panelists Robert D’Souza, Oswald Rodrigues, Dora Rodrigues, and Evelin Benis. Additionally, staff member Reena D Costa received accolades from Flavia D’Souza for her unwavering commitment to the programme.

Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha lauded the D’Souzas for their generous support, facilitated by the Bishop himself. He highlighted the importance of the Educare loan programme, stating, “This initiative provides crucial interest-free loans to deserving students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, empowering them to achieve their academic dreams.”

Housing, healthcare, and education are fundamental human needs, yet many people in society remain deprived of these essentials. Access to quality education and advanced skills is crucial for securing good jobs and career advancement. In this context, the Educare initiative was launched under CODP in 2013. Although over 3,000 students have benefited from the programme, this is the first opportunity to meet the students directly.

Michael D’Souza, a non-resident entrepreneur and advocate for Educare, shared his message with the students: “Wherever life takes you, never forget your parents, your mother tongue, and your homeland. When you achieve success, cultivate the ability to help others in need—that is the greatest gratitude you can offer.”

He emphasised that the lessons and blessings from our mothers are invaluable, stating, “Recognising the struggles of others and responding with empathy is the mark of a true human being.”

Michael D’Souza embodies this trait, having learned it from his mother. His commitment to addressing societal needs —especially in education, housing, and healthcare — serves as a tremendous inspiration.

Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha, head of the Diocese of Mangalore, also praised the initiative, highlighting its significant impact on the community.

Launched in 2013, the Educare programme operates on a revolving loan fund model, ensuring that funds lent must be repaid within 18 months post-graduation. Timely repayments are essential to sustain this vital initiative and enable future students to benefit.

The event commenced with a warm welcome from CODP secretary Vincent D’Souza, and was expertly compered by Fr Lawrence Cuntinha, assistant director of CODP, making the occasion both informative and inspiring.