Caritas India has launched the 53rd edition of its flagship initiative, the Development Dynamic Course (DDC). Held at Sannidhi, Centre for Pastoral Renewal in Shivamogga on 20th November 2023, this 18-day residential course, organized under the Caritas Institute for Development Action and Learning (CIDAL), brings together 21 participants from diverse states, including Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Punjab, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha.

The course commenced with a holy Eucharistic celebration led by Most Rev Francis Serrao SJ, Chairman of Karnataka Regional Organization for Social Service, Bengaluru, and the Bishop of the Diocese of Shivamogga. In his impassioned homily, he highlighted the deprivation of rights and privileges faced by many and emphasized the pivotal role of social workers in understanding the root causes of poverty. He urged a holistic approach, treating not just the symptoms but addressing the underlying societal diseases. Bishop Serrao shared a vision of a truly Synodal Church as a key to success.

Fr (Dr.) Jolly Puthenpura, Assistant Executive Director of Caritas India, addressed the gathering during the inaugural session. He stressed the importance of translating thoughts into actions with a compassionate heart. Fr Jolly shed light on the current landscape of social work in India, emphasizing the prevalent challenges.

Sharing his personal experience with DDC, Fr Richard Pais, Director of Karnataka Regional Organization for Social Service (KROSS), highlights its immense value for beginners aspiring to serve their communities. Other prominent figures, including Fr. Clifford Roshan Pinto, Director of Shimoga Multipurpose Social Service Society (SMSSS), Shivamogga, and Fr (Dr.) Abraham Areeparambil, Director of Malnad Social Service Society (MSSS), Bhadravathi, encouraged and motivated participants to harness the course effectively.

Dr. Haridas V. R, Convener of CIDAL, provided a comprehensive overview of the course contents. The participants will delve into topics such as project cycle management (PCM), Results Based Management (RBM), Social Analysis, Community Mobilization, Safeguarding, Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), Financial matters, and climate-related subjects.

The course boasts a lineup of distinguished resource persons, including Ms. Asha Ekka, Program Lead-Child Development, Caritas India, Mr. Bablu Sarkar, State Program Associate, Kolkata, Caritas India, Mr. Kushal Neogy, Sub-Regional Director – Partnerships, Catholic Relief Service, Dr. Haridas V. R., Lead – Climate Justice, Caritas India, and Mr. Bobby Koshy, Lead – Admin Finance.

As the 53rd Development Dynamic Course unfolds, Caritas India continues its commitment to nurturing a cadre of social workers equipped to address the multifaceted challenges facing communities across India.