In a heartwarming display of commitment to social development, Caritas India inaugurated its 54th Development Dynamic Course (DDC) on November 20, 2024, at DISHA, RCDSSS, Ajmer in Rajasthan. This 18-day residential course, organized under the banner of Caritas Institute for Development Action and Learning (CIDAL), has brought together 27 passionate individuals from 10 states across India, each eager to make a difference in their communities.

The air was filled with hope and anticipation as participants from Jharkhand, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Rajasthan, Assam, Karnataka, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh gathered for this transformative journey. The diversity of the group promises a rich exchange of ideas and experiences, fostering a truly pan-Indian approach to development.

The course began with a soul-stirring Eucharistic celebration led by Most Rev Louis Oswal, the Apostolic Administrator of Ajmer, with Rev. Antony Fernandez, Executive Director of Caritas India, and Rev. Fr. Jerish, Director of RCDSSS, Ajmer, as co-celebrants. Bishop Oswal’s homily touched hearts as he reminded the participants of their divine calling to be instruments of change in their communities.

Dr. Haridas V. R, Convener of CIDAL, warmly welcomed the gathering and unveiled the course contents, promising a comprehensive curriculum covering crucial topics such as project cycle management, results-based management, social analysis, community mobilization, safeguarding, disaster risk reduction, financial matters, and climate-related issues.

In his inaugural address, Bishop Oswal shared a poignant story that resonated deeply with the participants. He spoke of a pious lady who, upon witnessing the suffering of the poor, questioned God’s role in alleviating their misery. The divine response was a powerful reminder that we are all created to be God’s hands, legs, eyes, and ears in serving humanity.

Fr Antony Fernandes, Executive Director of Caritas India expressed his enthusiasm for the course, emphasizing its potential to empower participants in their social work endeavors. Fr. Jerish echoed this sentiment, appreciating Caritas India’s efforts in organizing the DDC in Ajmer.

The course boasts an impressive lineup of resource persons, including Fr. Antony Fernandez, Fr. Anil William Crasta, Mr. Joseph Mathew, Mr. Bablu Sarkar, Mr. Kushal Neogy, Dr. Saju M K, Dr. Haridas V. R., and Mr. Bobby Koshy. Their collective expertise promises to provide participants with a wealth of knowledge and practical insights.

As the 54th Development Dynamic Course unfolds, it stands as a silver lining , nurturing the next generation of change-makers who will return to their communities armed with new skills, fresh perspectives, and a renewed commitment to creating a more just and equitable society. Caritas India continues to lead the way in empowering individuals to be the change they wish to see in the world.