Caring for Special Children is a Challenging Task – Michael D’Souza
- Autism Primary Training Centre Inaugurated at Pamboor Manasa Special School
Udupi: In a formal ceremony held on Saturday, the Manasa Special School for the Differently Abled in Pamboor inaugurated its new Autism Primary Training Centre. The event underscored the significant challenges and profound rewards associated with caring for children with special needs. Businessman and philanthropist Michael D’Souza, the chief guest at the inauguration, emphasized the importance of providing proper care, encouragement, and support to enable these children to achieve their full potential.
Mr. D’Souza, speaking at the event, lauded the dedication of the Manasa institution, which has been serving the community for the past 28 years. He remarked, “Caring for children with special needs is both a challenging and responsible task. These children are an asset to society, and it is a noble deed to take care of them and encourage their educational activities.” He acknowledged the difficulties inherent in managing even physically able children, praising the office-bearers and teachers of Manasa for their exemplary role in educating and caring for those with special needs.
The newly established Autism Primary Training Centre received blessings from Most Rev. Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo, Bishop of the Udupi Diocese, signifying the spiritual importance of the center’s mission.
Michael and Flavia D’Souza, whose financial contributions were instrumental in the establishment of the Autism Primary Training Centre, were honored during the ceremony. The institution expressed its gratitude for their generosity and commitment to supporting the education and development of special needs children. Mr. D’Souza affirmed his continued support for Manasa, stating, “Offering a portion of the wealth that God has given us to institutions in need brings divine blessings. I will continue to support the work of Manasa, which not only educates special children but also identifies their areas of interest and trains them accordingly.”
The event was attended by a distinguished gathering, including Udupi Diocese Public Relations Officer Fr. Denis D’Sa, retired naval officer Commodore Jerome Castelino of Moodubelle, Manasa principal Sr. Vinny Gonsalves, Joint Secretary Mary D’Souza, Treasurer Joseph F. Noronha, trustees Dr. Edward Lobo, Henry Menezes, Kiran Crasta, advisory committee members Walter Cyril Pinto, Gerald Rodrigues, Gracy Lasrado, Trustee advisory members Oswald Rodrigues, Lynel Aranha, Stephen Pinto, office-bearers of the school’s teachers and guardians association, donors, and other stakeholders.
Manasa Trust president John Martis extended a warm welcome to the attendees, while Secretary Dr. Gerald Pinto delivered the vote of thanks. The program was skillfully compered by Reena D’Souza and Avila Monis. The inauguration of the Autism Primary Training Centre marks a significant step forward in providing specialized care and education for children with autism in the Udupi region, reaffirming the commitment of Manasa Special School to nurturing the potential of every child.