The transformative Eighteen Days long residential Development Dynamics Course (DDC) from November 20th to December 7th, 2023, the 53rd Development Dynamics Course (DDC) by Caritas India reached its conclusion at the Sannidhi Centre for Pastoral Renewal, Shimoga, Karnataka. The immersive program, organized under the auspices of the Caritas Institute of Development Action and Learning (CIDAL), brought together a dynamic cohort of 21 participants from diverse corners of India, eager to delve into the realms of social development.

The participants, a mosaic of passionate individuals committed to social change, enthusiastically shared their sentiments about the course. Their excitement was palpable as they absorbed knowledge and skills across a spectrum of subjects, from social analysis and people empowerment to Catholic Social Teachings (CST), strategic planning, and climate justice.

The distinguished Fr. (Dr.) Jolly Puthenpura, Assistant Executive Director of Caritas India set the stage by urging participants to translate their thoughts into compassionate actions. Dr. Haridas V. R, the convener of CIDAL, then unveiled the rich tapestry of course contents, spanning project cycle management, results-based management, community mobilization, safeguarding, and more.

Fr. Steevan D’Souza, a participant from Karwar Diocese shared his experiences, extending gratitude to the resource persons for their invaluable contributions. Other participants also shared their learning journey and insights. In a symbolic gesture, DDC participants presented a comprehensive report of their enriching journey to Most Rev Francis Serrao SJ. Certificates were distributed, marking the culmination of their transformative experience. Fr. Clifford Roshan Pinto and Fr. Duming Dias expressed heartfelt gratitude to Caritas India, lauding the program’s organization at the Centre for Pastoral Renewal in Shivamogga, Karnataka.

The concluding session, graced by Most Rev Francis Serrao SJ, Chairman of Karnataka Regional Organization for Social Service and the Bishop of Diocese of Shivamogga, provided a panoramic view of social work models. From the charity model to the liberational model, participants delved into profound discussions on addressing the root causes of poverty rather than merely treating its symptoms.

A highlight of the program was the visit to SMSSS, where participants imbibed valuable insights from Rev. Fr. Clifford Roshan Pinto, Director of SMSSS, Shivamogga. The session underscored the importance of practical experiences in developing skills such as Micro Social Analysis and Macro Economic Analysis. Concepts like Safeguarding, Integral ecology, rights-based approaches to development, and project cycle management were elucidated, empowering participants with a comprehensive understanding of community mobilization and finance management. Participants were equipped with capacities to initiate, sustain and promote the empowerment of the poor and oppressed. Emerging concepts of Development and various approaches including strategies for community mobilization were shared with the participants.

Caritas India, through the 53rd DDC, has not just concluded a course; it has sown the seeds of positive change in the hearts and minds of its participants, fostering a cadre of empowered agents ready to make a lasting impact in the field of social development.