The Staff Development Programme or commonly referred to as the SDP has been among the key HR initiatives taken by the Caritas India Management with the idea of imparting training to employees through series of programmes that contribute to their personal and professional growth. Started in 2019, the SDPs are designed to enhance the skills, knowledge and attitude which help them identify strongly with the Organization’s objectives, values and integration into its culture.

Post pandemic, the SDP series has been re-initiated on an online mode. Centred around the theme of Work Ethics, Organisational Culture and Relations, half-day virtual sessions spread across 3 days was organized which had the participation of 24 participants. Through a blend of Powerpoint based and interactive sessions, participants were imparted training by Mr Kushal Neogy, CRS. As the topic suggests, the participants were thoroughly acquainted with CI values, culture and the desired work ethics; the session on interpersonal relations enabled awareness of personal communication styles.

Fr (Dr) Jolly, AED, and Fr. Sushil, Administrator were part of the inaugural session of the SDP programme on 14 July 2021. Fr Jolly in his address emphasised the importance of enjoying the work we perform and spreading joy to others through our service, thus embodying Caritas India’s motto of Joy of Service in true spirit.

SDP had a reflection and brainstorming moments on soul searching, introspection and understanding the meaning of working in a Development Organization such as Caritas India. Special focus was laid on the Code of Conduct and Catholic Social Teachings.

The programme concluded on 16 July 2021, with Fr. Paul, ED joining in the concluding session. He addressed and closely interacted with each participant on their experience and learning takeaways during the SDP. In his closing address, Fr Paul exhorted all the new entrants as they begin a new journey with CI to internalize the key learnings for both self-growth and the success of CI which is aimed towards service to the humankind at large.