by Ancy D'Souza Paladka

Mumbai: Newly bought commercial space for the office use of Vasai Konkani Welfare Association (VKWA) was inaugurated recently by Albert W D'Souza, chairman of Aldel education trust. The office is located at the heart of the city of Vasai, in Suyog Nafar, Opposite to the Bishops House of Vasai Diocese.

In his inaugural speech,  Albert said that VKWA is the most vibrant association of today's Konkani World. When any association buys its own office its activities get centralised. This makes the association to sustain for a longer period. Because it gets a physical structure, it becomes an institution. I can see like minded young leaders  coming together for a social cause. It is a very young association. This association will move faster to greater heights and remain as a pearl in  Konkani community.

Fr Nazareth Gabru, the Vicar General of Vasai Diocese blessed the office and said that VKWA is a great asset to the diocese. He appreciated the hard work of the members to buy an office. Fr Ozy Gonsalves, Parish Priest of St Ignatius Loyola church also congratulated the members for keeping the Konkani spirit high. Fr Tony Jurschik and Fr Joe Prabhu were also present.

Mandd Sobhann Gurkar Eric Ozario, said that inaugurating an office for any Konkani organisation is a very rare occasion. After visiting number of associations, I am very proud to announce that VKWA is one of the very active Konkani associations around the globe. When a association gets an office of its own their activities get flourished faster.

The contributors of the association were honoured during this occasion. President Stephen Fernandes delivered the vote of thanks. Secretary Ancy D'Souza Paladka compered the programme.